top of page
About us
What we do
We work to empower and equip promising female final year students in the marketing and communications fields with the skills and confidence necessary to thrive in the
corporate world.
Meet the team
Anchor 1
Koo Govender was global brand experience agency VWV’s first female CEO. In 2014, she spearheaded the development of the Phakama Women’s Academy to empower bright young women in the communications and marketing fields through knowledge, skills and mentorship.
“We fast-track key workplace skills in promising young women in our sector. Then we ask them to pay these learnings forward, so by changing one life we in effect change many.”
Shale Gama is MD of VWV. A seasoned entrepreneur with a passion for empowering young women, she’s been involved with Phakama from the very beginning. Today, she is perfectly placed to take the Academy to even greater heights.
“One of the things I love most about Phakama is how it teaches the girls to believe in themselves - their own power and strength. Because while a strong women will stand up for herself, a stronger women will stand up for herself and those around her.”
After more than 30 years’ heading up VWV’s Creative endeavour, there’s nothing Caroline Pretorius doesn’t know about thriving in a fast-paced agency environment.
“For me, a can-do attitude and solid work ethic are the most important attributes for anyone wanting to get ahead in business. It’s no coincidence that we focus so strongly on these and other soft skills in the course.”
With a head for numbers and an eye for detail, Patricia Brown brings great insights to Phakama’s management team.
“What I wouldn’t have done to have a Phakama opportunity back when I was getting my first job!”
Our girls
We love our girls! Every year we select between 30 - 40 based on their energy, attitude and ambition. We look for self-starters hungry for personal growth and progress who understand that their dedication will pave the way for remarkable achievements. And we love nothing more than seeing how they thrive in their careers and their lives once they start working.
Our mentors
Beyond the classroom, every girl is paired with a female mentor. Each is an expert in her field who volunteers time and talent to assist and support the girls. During one-on-one sessions they offer career guidance and valuable insights into the dynamics of the workplace, helping the girls develop skills and confidence to become the person they want to be.
Our facilitators
Despite being exceptionally busy and successful women, our facilitators throw themselves into the task of teaching the girls. Each is chosen for her in-depth knowledge in a particular field as well as her ability to connect with, enthuse and inspire the girls. All bring their knowledge and nuggets of wisdom to the course material on a voluntary basis.
bottom of page