Autojournal Africa celebrates women of impact in automotive, aviation, and maritime

As the world celebrates International Women’s Day 2025 with the theme “Accelerate Action,” Autojournal Africa spotlights women who are transforming the transportation sector. Traditionally dominated by men, industries such as automotive, aviation, maritime, and motorsports are now witnessing a profound transformation.

Women leaders are not just breaking barriers, they are driving innovation, championing sustainability, and advocating for inclusivity. Their stories are reshaping perceptions and proving that diversity at the helm is not just beneficial but essential for growth.

In Africa, one such leader is Sandra Aguebor, Nigeria’s first female mechanic and the founder of the Lady Mechanic Initiative. Since its inception, the initiative has empowered over 700 women with technical skills and business training, enabling them to thrive in the male-dominated automotive industry.

Similarly, in South Africa, Marcia Mayaba made history as the first black female franchise executive for Ford and Mazda. Her leadership extends beyond sales, focusing on mentoring young women and advocating for policies that promote diversity and equity in the automotive sector.

Across the globe, women like Olabisi Boyle, Vice President of Product Planning and Mobility Strategy at Hyundai Motor America, are leading with purpose. With a track record that includes winning Best in Class from J.D. Power for the Chrysler Town & Country minivan in 2011, Olabisi’s leadership emphasizes innovation and sustainability. Her strategies are not just shaping Hyundai’s future but are also setting a benchmark for inclusivity in leadership.

Women at the Wheel of Innovation

In the tech-driven landscape of transportation, leaders like Aicha Evans, CEO of Zoox, are pushing boundaries. Under her leadership, Zoox is revolutionizing urban mobility with fully autonomous electric vehicles designed to reduce emissions and traffic congestion. Evans, a passionate advocate for women in tech, has called for greater representation of women in STEM fields, emphasizing that diverse teams drive better outcomes.

Meanwhile, in the maritime industry, Belinda Bennett has become a symbol of resilience and determination. As the first black female cruise ship captain, her journey was far from easy. Earning her Master’s Certificate of Competency in 2005, Belinda has spent decades navigating uncharted waters, both literally and figuratively. Her leadership has not only shattered glass ceilings but also inspired a new generation of women to pursue careers in maritime.

In aviation, Asnath Mahapa, South Africa’s first black female pilot, has dedicated her career to diversifying the skies. Through her African Pilot’s Academy, Asnath has trained dozens of young women, offering them scholarships and mentorship opportunities. Her goal is to see more African women in the cockpit, leading the aviation industry into a more inclusive future.

The Road Ahead: Accelerating Inclusion

Despite these inspiring stories, the reality is that women still represent less than 20% of the workforce in most transportation sectors, according to data from the World Bank. The challenges include limited mentorship opportunities, gender biases in recruitment, and a lack of flexible work policies.

Industry leaders like Linda Cash of Ford Motor Co., who has dedicated 36 years to advancing diversity in manufacturing, stress the importance of structured mentorship programs and inclusive policies as key drivers of change.

The need for actionable steps is more urgent than ever. As International Women’s Day 2025 calls for “Accelerate Action,” these trailblazers remind us that real progress demands measurable commitments—from equal pay to leadership opportunities. Creating a future where women can thrive in transportation means addressing the structural barriers that have held them back for decades.

The road to inclusion may be long, but with leaders like Sandra, Olabisi, Aicha, and Belinda at the wheel, the destination is in sight.

Read more on IWD 2025: Celebrating women who transformed the automotive industry