At Nissan South Africa, we appreciate that Women's Month serves as a platform to advocate for gender equality, amplify women's voices, and acknowledge their contribution to society throughout history.
The month of August is not only a celebration of women's achievements and successes but also an opportunity to continue to break biases, embrace diversity and partner in nurturing workspaces that are inclusive.
Here's to shining the headlights on some of the women committed to excelling in their daily jobs whilst also co-creating spaces where all individuals can show up as their most authentic selves.
Meet Mpume Cele - Nissan South Africa Learning and Development Manager, committed to providing all individuals she works with respect and equal treatment.
How do you leverage gender diversity in your everyday work life?
Thanks to the Nissan AMIEO Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion (DEI) Manifesto and our regional and local leaders' commitment I am assured that as a woman of colour, my input is just as important as that of a male colleague. This realisation allows me to leverage the differences in order to bring about positive change where inclusion and equality is the norm.
Tell us about a typical day at the office for you
I'm the woman who chases her team members to complete their training and KPI settings! On a serious note, I spend my days in meetings where decisions and plans are made on the best methods of developing NSA employees. This includes allocating the required resources to have skills required by the business.
What makes you proud to be a member of the Nissan South Africa team?
My work affords me the amazing opportunity of working with every NSA employee. This makes me feel connected to my fellow co-workers even before we meet face-to-face. The use of technology in the learning and skills development space has made it possible for collaboration and knowledge transference irrespective of geographical location.
What is the highlight of your day?
It has to be when former graduates and learners, who are now permanent employees, stop by for a visit at my desk. I become like a proud mother hen!
What management attribute is enhanced by your unique diversity?
Empathy and treating everyone I have the pleasure of working with equally and with respect, irrespective of their position. I do this by giving team members the attention and time they need in addressing any questions they may have.
How do you leverage gender diversity in your everyday work life
I've learnt that different genders, cultural backgrounds and other aspects of diversity provide the rich insights and different perspectives required to move our business forward. Thanks to the Nissan AMIEO Diversity, Equality and Inclusion (DEI) Manifesto and our leaders' commitment I am assured that as a woman of colour, my input is just as important as that of a male colleague. This realisation allows me to leverage the differences in order to bring about positive change where inclusion and equality is the norm.
How do you support Nissan South Africa through the learning and development work you do?
I would like to believe that I am contributing towards the technical skills and competencies to build a more competitive and sustainable Nissan in South Africa which will be critical as we move towards establishing the African continent as an automotive manufacturing trade bloc.