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Women are so alike and yet we spend so much time disparaging one another.” – Victoria Chabeli, reader letter (O Magazine, November 2005)

At gsport, we’d like to think that when women inspire women, we contribute toward the greater good of South Africa. When we appreciate, learn from, and acknowledge the good in each other, we can only grow.

This month, we celebrate someone who epitomises many of the key qualities of a true feminine spirit.

She is a natural leader, and is inspired by great women like Graca Machel and Winnie Mandela, she has many achievements, but only involves herself in something if she can add value.

Whether you’re sportswoman, doctor, lawyer, artist; she will inspire you in so many ways, but mostly, because of her sincerity to see other South African women succeed.

In 1994, businesswoman, Wendy Luhabe, was instrumental in establishing Women Investment Portfolio Holdings which listed in 1999 on the Johannesburg Securities Exchange in the Investment Trust section (de-listed March 2003), an initiative that revolutionised the participation of women in the economic landscape of South Africa.

In 1999, she was rated as one of the world’s 50 leading women entrepreneurs.

In 2002, she wrote her first book, Defining Moments, a reflection of the experiences of black professionals in the South African workplace over the last three decades.

Profits from her book are used to educate young disadvantaged women, especially from rural areas.

In 2006, she was appointed Chancellor of the University of Johannesburg, in another acknowledgement of her ability to lead and inspire those around her.

Wendy spoke to gsport about being a woman in business, her achievements, and her joys in life.

Introducing our Woman of the Month for November: businesswoman extraordinaire, Wendy Luhabe.

What sets you apart as a woman in business?
I do what I love and what makes a difference.  I always challenge myself beyond what is ordinary. 
I generate pioneering business ideas, and find competent people to build a business around my ideas. 
I’m probably much better at strategy than at managing a business.

Describe the obstacle you most commonly encounter as a woman in business, and how you deal with it.
Women who are not constructive; who compete with my unique potential because they are unable to recognise their magnificence.

Tell us about your most significant achievements.
Writing a book, Defining Moments, pioneering the establishment of the Women Investment Portfolio Holding, and the Private Equity Fund for Women.

What inspires you?
Life, people, ideas, making a difference, growing, music, relationships, traveling.

How do you balance your career with your role as a woman in SA?
I say no to what I cannot add value to.  I do not work before 9:00 or after hours or on week-ends unless I have to.

What is your favourite sport to watch, and your favourite activity as a sports woman?
I watch everything from international golf to soccer, rugby, motor racing, and tennis. 
I do not have a favourite sports activity and do not understand cricket, so you have to teach me.

What do you do to stay in shape with such a busy professional life?
I do Bikram Yoga and walk.

When you need a good spoiling, what do you think of first?
A facial, massage, champagne and great company.

Who is your favourite sports star?
No one I’m afraid, I admire people who defy all odds and re-define new levels of performance, like Lance Armstrong or Michael Schumacher.

What is your biggest joy in life?
My 3 year old grandson, Luyanda.

gsport strives to celebrate femininity. How would you define femininity?
Sensuality, nothing to prove, comfortable to be wrong, detachment from old ideas, being open, playful and in the moment.

What’s the most amazing thing about being a woman?
We are in touch with our emotions.  We experience all the expressions of being human.

What’s the best career advice you’ve been given?
To do what I love and never underestimate what I’m capable of.

Who are your role models?
Graca Machel, Winnie Mandela, Helen Suzman, Marina Maponya.

How do you relax?
I love music and getaways to the bush, a spa or somewhere beautiful…