IN a male-dominated industry, one woman has defied the norm and created a legacy that will be told for generations to come. Dr Divine Simbi-Ndhlukula defied all norms by carving out a space for women in the security sector, a feat that has earned her company the distinction of being the largest employer of women in Zimbabwe outside the government. As Dr Ndhlukula says, “We came into this sector, which was male, grey, and dull, and jazzed it up, and eventually made it look like a little picnic.”
The result of her pioneering efforts is a security industry that now recognises the strength and value of women. At SECURICO, women are a driving force. They occupy key leadership roles, making up 80% of the board of directors and holding senior management, supervision, and even traditionally male-dominated positions like gunners, Cash In-Transit (CIT) crews, and dog handlers. This commitment to equal opportunity is a core tenet of the company’s culture. Her heritage is a security sector that is not just more inclusive and diverse but also stronger and more vibrant because of the incredible contributions of women.
Dr Simbi-Ndhlukula’s commitment to women’s economic empowerment extends beyond SECURICO. She has founded several initiatives, including the mentorship in practice programme and the woman-owned brand initiative, to support women in scaling up their businesses. Her efforts have made a significant difference in the lives of many women. Her story is a powerful testament to the idea that empowering women benefits communities.
