'Use your voice': Raihanna Amod urges women to take up space

South African women face a complex mix of pressures, according to Raihanna Amod, founder of FEMME Magazine. Safety, gender-based violence and financial inequality are significant concerns, but Amod believes lesser-known pressures, such as professional success expectations, societal beauty standards, relationship maintenance, family-building, and the pressure to appear effortlessly successful, also weigh heavily on women.

She urges the media to tell more nuanced stories about women, moving beyond stereotypes and recognizing them as multifaceted individuals rather than solely victims, entrepreneurs, wives, mothers, or inspirational figures. As a woman in media, Amod has learned to assert herself and overcome self-doubt about her qualifications and the seriousness of her ideas.

She emphasizes the importance of creating an inclusive environment where women feel they belong and can contribute without having to prove their worth. Amod's view of success has shifted over time; it is no longer solely tied to high-profile positions, recognition, or metrics. Instead, she defines success more personally, focusing on creating something she's proud of, leading a life outside of work, producing meaningful content, and collaborating with competent individuals.

She also values the impact her work has on other women, aiming to inspire, boost confidence, and make them feel seen. For aspiring journalists, publishers, or media professionals, Amod's advice is straightforward: don't wait for the perfect moment. Women often hesitate to step forward due to a lack of experience, connections, resources, or confidence.

She encourages young women to start, ask questions, share their work, learn from mistakes, and continuously seek opportunities to grow. Most importantly, Amod insists that women must not shrink themselves because they're new to the room. Their voice is their most potent asset; they should utilize it.