#WomensMonth2024: Empowerment is at the core of who Lerato Bangane is

 Lerato Bangane, a senior management accountant in finance, believes that empowered people empower others. “Being empowered encourages others  to become confident, more committed and creative, and this has the power to permeate through organisations and society with long-lasting   positive effects,” she expresses. This Women’s Month and beyond, we recognise Lerato as a phenomenal CSIR woman.

Taking the initiative has come naturally to Lerato. In 2019, she, together with other women, started a women’s empowerment initiative called the “3^rd  Dimension Movement.” This movement advocates for women to work together in areas such as education, entrepreneurship and strong family structures, and stands against gender-based violence. “It also facilitates dialogue on various issues that are affecting women and young girls, with a strong focus on encouraging girls to dream big,” she explains.

Children with special needs also hold a special place in Lerato’s heart. Through the 3^rd Dimension Movement, she has supported the Lebohang Centre   located in Sebokeng, in the Vaal, for a number of years.

 People-centredness at the core of her movement

 In her philanthropic work outside the CSIR, people-centredness is the EPIC value that resonates with Lerato. “People-centredness is at the core of our    3^rd Dimension Movement and it places importance on making a difference in the lives of people no matter who they are,” she says.

Professionally, Lerato has been at the CSIR for over 16 years, progressing in her career through hard work and persistence. She started in the General Ledger Office, then moved to the Projects Office and currently provides financial support to the NextGen Enterprises and Institutions cluster. Lerato holds a BCom degree in commerce, a postgraduate certificate in Project Management, a postgraduate certificate in Risk Financing and a number of other certificates. It is clear that education has been and always will be a priority for her.

Continue advocating for gender equality

For Lerato, Women’s Month is about reflection and acknowledgement of the role women play as well as contributions made over time. “It is also a time to draw attention to the many important issues such as discrimination and harassment in the workplace, gender-based violence, and to continue to advocate for gender equality,” she urges. Lerato also believes that it is a reminder of how special women are. “We should utilise this month to remind all women of their uniqueness and the fact that we embody resilience. It is this resilience that should be ignited in all women from all walks of life to find their voice wherever they are, be it in the family, places of worship, workplace or society at large,” she says.