​Thirty years into democracy, women now have an equal opportunity to make a significant contribution in what used to be a male-dominated field, the emergency medical services sector.
Busi Nkabinde (36), an Emergency Care Practitioner based at the Gauteng Emergency Medical Services base in Tembisa, Ekurhuleni is one of the many women who are making their presence felt within the sector. 
Reflecting on the significant strides that have been made, Nkabinde states the development of women in the field has been immense considering that three decades ago women were mainly excluded from being Emergency Care Practitioners as this was considered an area that was suitable for males given its physical nature. 
"A lot of consideration has been made to ensure that women infiltrate the space. It is now very conducive for us to thrive and become what we want in this area," said the courageous Nkabinde in her Green Angels uniform. 
South Africa is this year celebrating 30 years of Democracy and with August being Women's Month, it is important to highlight the sacrifices women across all walks of life have made and continue to make in society.
This year's Women's Month theme is "Celebrating 30 Years of Democracy Towards Women's Development" and it marks the 68th anniversary of that historic 1956 march to the Union Buildings, which saw women united in one voice to end the inequality and injustice by the apartheid government that had relegated them to persona non grata status on the basis of being women, and black.
Nkabinde states that Women's Month celebrations highlight efforts to empower women and recognises the integration of women in spaces where they were previously excluded. 
Jane Kekana, one of the two Gauteng Emergency Medical Services district managers heading the Sedibeng district echoed the same sentiments as Nkabinde, saying that over the years, the visibility and impact of women in emergency care, especially in Gauteng has significantly improved.
"What once was a male-dominated field is now recognising the invaluable contributions of women. In Ekurhuleni and beyond, we are seeing more women joining the ranks of emergency services, inspired by a desire to serve their communities and make a difference. 
"It has been a journey of breaking barriers and creating opportunities, and I am thrilled to witness the growing presence of women in emergency care, as well as the positive change we are driving together. Our footprints are indeed visible, and they serve as a testament to what determination, passion and community spirit can achieve," said Kekana, who said that her journey in the field has been nothing but rewarding. 
In addition, MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko extended her deepest appreciation to the selfless heroics of all "superwomen" in the health sector, alluding that their dedication and resilience in the face of multiple health challenges that confront the world today is truly inspiring. 
"Women have always played a catalytic role in shaping a responsive healthcare system. Thirty years on, we continue to draw inspiration from generations of women pioneers whose courage in the face of adversity serves as an anchor as we usher in a new era," said the MEC.