#WomenAre… Everything They Want To Be And More

DStv launches inspirational campaign featuring some of the country’s most phenomenal female icons to celebrate the women of wonder (wow) this Women’s Month

Influential… Powerful … Awe-Inspiring… Love… Multifaceted… Anchored… these are just some of the words chosen by nine remarkable South African women to define what it means to be a woman, completing the phrase “Women are _”, the campaign tagline used by DStv to celebrate and put the spotlight on our leading women, this Women’s Month.

From TV stars to sports captains, fighter pilots to comediennes, presenters to DJs, activists, models and lawyers, these women involved in the campaign have truly made their mark in the world – with more to come. No single label is enough to describe the essence of women – but we challenged them to try and their responses in two incredible adverts that will be showcase on the DStv platforms throughout the month of August to observe Women’s Day, celebrated on 9 August.

Here’s what they had to say:

Model, lawyer and outspoken activist, Thando Hopa, who is undoubtedly an inspiration and trailblazer who became the first woman with albinism to appear on the cover of Vogue Portugal, chose the word “MULTI-FACETED” to describe the many aspects of women, and the talents they exhibit.

Safta-award-winning actress and choreographer Lorcia Cooper may be tough as nails in ‘Lockdown,’ but off-screen, she’s bubbly and positive, with a spark that shines through. It’s not surprising her word is “LOVE”. Catch her on ‘The Queen’ on Mzansi Magic (DStv ch. 161), weekdays at 21:00.

Janine van Wyk, captain of Banyana Banyana, aptly chose the word “INFLUENTIAL”. Having made 125 appearances for her country, she’s the most capped player ever, a real inspiration for young South Africans to emulate.

Fan-favourite, ‘The Throne’ star Tsholofelo Matshaba chose “ANCHOR” as her word. She may be evil on screen, but in real life she’s gentle and kind, the one who holds it all together. Catch her on ‘The Throne’ on Mzansi Magic (DStv ch. 161), weekdays at 19:00.

As the first South African black female fighter pilot, Mandisa Mfeka is living the word she chose every day – “AWE-INSPIRING”. Her passion, drive, bravery and determination make her a truly awesome role model, who we can literally look up to.

Satirist, screenwriter and content producer, Lesego Tlhabi a.k.a Coconut Kelz knows exactly how to use words so that they have real meaning and she’s a force to be reckoned with, which is why “POWER” perfectly describes women for her.

‘Suidooster’ star Lindsey Abrahams’s personality is as bright as can be and she simply exudes fun and laughter, so it was no surprise she chose “COLOURFUL” to echo her radiance. Catch her on ‘Suidooster’ on kykNET (DStv ch. 144) and kykNET&Kie (DStv ch. 145), weekdays at 18:30.

“PIONEER” is how SuperSport presenter extraordinaire Motshidisi Mohono describes women, and in the male-dominated world she inhabits, it’s not hard to see why. She’s made inroads that no-one might have thought possible, and always offers a unique perspective on everything. Catch her on ‘Phaka’ on SS1 (DStv ch. 201).

Multi-talented kykNET star Elma Smit conquers everything she turns her hand to. So far that’s included being a sports anchor, radio DJ, TV producer and presenter, stylist and blogger. “WONDERFUL” captures her essence in so many ways.

Look out for the adverts on DStv or view the video in their entirety on www.dstv.co.za/women. For more women who inspires and entertain us – keep watching DStv.

What is the first, most-powerful word that comes to mind about of South Africa’s leading women? Join the conversation to celebrate Women’s Day with DStv by sharing your positive description using the #WomenAre and tag us on @DStv on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

By Andrew Germishuys

Founder of SAMDB | Actor | Armourer | Tech Enthusiast With over two decades in the film industry, I'm a seasoned actor and skilled armourer. I hold numerous certifications in acting and filmmaking, complemented by degrees and diplomas in IT and technology, giving me a unique blend of creative and technical expertise. When I'm not on set or in the workshop, you'll find me immersed in the world of gaming and VR, fuelling my passion for cutting-edge technology. Connect with me: X / Twitter Facebook Instagram Mastodon Threads Explore my work on SAMDB IMDb