In a world where transformational leadership demands resilience and purpose, Dr. Sindy Zemura, the CEO of Southern Africa Embrace Foundation, shines as a beacon of inspiration. Her remarkable journey, from navigating life as a young African woman in the diaspora to leading a global organisation at the forefront of digital inclusion and gender advocacy, is marked by unwavering faith, bold ambition, and a relentless drive to create meaningful impact.

Rooted in the richness of African values and empowered by the women who have shaped her life, Sindy has carved a unique path transcending borders, industries, and social boundaries. As a pioneering force in economic empowerment and intergenerational mentorship, she is breaking down barriers and paving the way for a new generation of women and youth to rise.

“I intentionally went after my dreams without compromise, turning setbacks into learning opportunities. Balancing my work and personal lifestyle has contributed to a stronger sense of self and clarity about my aspirations.”

Dr. Sindy Zemura

In this exclusive Women’s History Month interview with Glazia, Sindy shares the pivotal moments that have defined her, the pressing need to accelerate action toward gender equality, and her invaluable advice for young women driven to make a lasting difference. Her story is a powerful example of courage, purpose, and an unrelenting pursuit of lasting change. Join us as we delve into the mindset and mission of a woman who is redefining leadership on a global scale.

Dr. Sindy Zemura on Digital Inclusion, Gender Equality, and the Power of Mentorship

Glazia: Tell us briefly about your journey to becoming the woman you are today. How did you get here? What obstacles did you face, and how did you overcome them?

Dr. Sindy Zemura: My journey to becoming the woman I am today has been a tapestry of experiences, challenges, and growth. I come from a family with African values, and I grew up around strong women, including my mother who kept our family sustained after my father passed on when I was young. I have always been a go-getter, taking on hard conquests from my youth and migrating from South Africa when I was 19 in pursuit of life opportunities and higher education in Europe and eventually moving to North America. 

One of the biggest obstacles was navigating life in the diaspora as a young African woman with faith and resilience. I learned to overcome this by staying focused and surrounding myself with like-minded women and acquaintances who became role models and mentors and cultivated my potential. I intentionally went after my dreams without compromise, turning setbacks into learning opportunities. Balancing my work and personal lifestyle has contributed to a stronger sense of self and clarity about my aspirations. 

Glazia: How are you driving innovation and change in your field or community? What impact do you hope to achieve?

S.Z: As the CEO of an International organisation with a presence in multiple countries across Africa, my decisions as a leader driving strategy and Impact are paramount. I have contributed to impact ensuring the organization leverages technology for digital Inclusion for underserved communities to provide training in digital skills, gender equality advocacy, economic empowerment programs, capacity building, entrepreneurship, implementation of Inclusive Agri-tech Solutions, intergenerational mentorship and other advocacy programs.

Collaborative partnerships have been key in my leadership journey as they contribute to long-term sustainability for our programs and the communities we serve. By focusing on these areas, I strive to create meaningful, lasting change that uplifts women and youth across Southern Africa, ultimately leading to more resilient, equitable, and prosperous communities.

Glazia: The 2025 International Women’s Day theme is “Accelerate Action.” What does this mean to you, and how are you accelerating action towards gender equality in your own life and work?

S.Z: The theme “Accelerate Action” for International Women’s Day 2025 means that while progress has been made to promote advocacy for gender equality and women’s rights, much more can still be done to create meaningful generational change. This means working harder to remove systemic barriers that women face through advocacy, education, and challenging traditional biases and norms as well as cultural barriers.

Glazia: What advice would you give to young women looking to make an impact in their careers and communities, especially in fields traditionally dominated by men?

S.Z: My advice to young women looking to make a meaningful impact in their careers and communities is: 1) Believe in Yourself: Confidence is key, trust in your abilities and value your unique perspective. Remember that your voice matters. 2) Pursue Your Passion: Identify what you’re passionate about and seek opportunities that align with those interests. 3) Network Strategically: Build relationships with mentors, peers, and industry leaders.

Networking can open doors, provide guidance, and create opportunities for collaboration. 4) Embrace Failure as a learning tool and view it as an opportunity to learn, grow, and improve. Resilience is a key trait in overcoming challenges. 5) Be Authentic: Stay true to who you are; authenticity attracts people and creates deeper personal and professional connections. 6) Finally, prioritise mentorship and role models. Learn from those who have walked similar paths. Seek out mentors who can provide guidance, support, and insight into navigating your career.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned in your life and career so far?

S.Z: The biggest lesson in my career has been to always be authentic, willing to learn, and accept failures as stepping stones for growth.

Who are the women who inspire you, and why?

S.Z: I’m inspired by many women across Africa who have contributed to gender equality, women’s leadership, and human rights. My career wouldn’t be where it is without their support. Amongst them, I’m grateful to be mentored over the past decade by two of Africa’s trailblazers and women of valour that I’m proud to call my mothers: H.E Dr. Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, former Deputy President of South Africa and UN Executive Director, as well as Amb. Liberata Mulamula is a seasoned diplomat and former Tanzania Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation.

Rapid-Fire Sentence Finishers

If I could have any superpower, it would be…Captain Marvel.

The worst advice I ever received was…that I can do it all by myself.

The most important thing I’ve learned about leadership is…always be humble and open to learning.

The best thing about being a woman is…we have superpowers to nurture and love unconditionally.

The emoji that best describes me is…the shining teeth emoji. Lol.