"We  are building unapologetic leaders women who don't ask for permission to belong, but walk into every room prepared, informed and purposeful. Not because of their femininity, but because of the power experience and value they carry" 

Lerato Lebitsa- OAO Women MD 

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About us

OAO Women is a catalyst for women-led transformation. We exist to serve, inspire, and transform vast lives through leadership development, entrepreneurship training, and legacy-building storytelling.


We honour women who don’t gatekeep, but give. Women who don’t just take a seat at the table, but build tables for others too.

Meet the stewards

Zamokuhle has successfully raised capital for private companies and has written and executed strategic growth plans as both an executive and as a consultant. In her early career she held marketing and communications management positions. She is skilled in Strategic Planning and Content Development. She has sat on various NGOs such as the Netcare Foundation, Sister Jenny Burns Foundation, and the Sunninghill Hospital Craniofacial Programme.
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Zamokuhle Aja-Okorie
Lerato has built a 16-year career in South Africa’s financial services sector, with experience spanning stockbroking, wealth management, and private equity. She has held strategic and client-facing roles at firms including BJM Private Clients, Old Mutual Wealth, and Capital International Group. With deep operational and front-office insight, she is committed to driving inclusive investment growth. Lerato is passionate about economic empowerment, particularly through advancing women’s participation in wealth creation and legacy-building.
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Lerato Lebitsa Managing Director
Mariam brings her wealth of experience in Corporate Communications Healthcare and Education to the team. Mariam has over 25years of corporate experience in JSE listed organisations including private organisations.
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Mariam Hoosen Director

the door openers

The Door Openers, launched in August 2022, recognises and celebrates women who have defied societal norms and opened doors of opportunity for others. By highlighting these inspiring stories, we aim to inspire other women to follow in their footsteps and create positive change in their communities. The campaign serves as a powerful platform for storytelling, community engagement, and promoting the mission of OAO Women.

This initiative includes:

The Daily Door Opener Series: 31 women. 31 days of August. One story a day that inspires action.

The Door Openers Coffee Table Book: A premium publication showcasing stories of women opening access for others.

The Door Openers Annual Showcase: A gathering of leaders, changemakers, and champions of women-led impact.



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the door openers

The Door Openers, launched in August 2022, recognises and celebrates women who have defied societal norms and opened doors of opportunity for others. By highlighting these inspiring stories, we aim to inspire other women to follow in their footsteps and create positive change in their communities. The campaign serves as a powerful platform for storytelling, community engagement, and promoting the mission of OAO Women.

This initiative includes:

The Daily Door Opener Series: 31 women. 31 days of August. One story a day that inspires action.

The Door Openers Coffee Table Book: A premium publication showcasing stories of women opening access for others.

The Door Openers Annual Showcase: A gathering of leaders, changemakers, and champions of women-led impact.