Bridging the Gap began operations in 1991, establishing a consulting firm designed to integrate young black South Africans into the corporate sector. Founded by Wendy Luhabe, the organization addressed the systemic barriers facing new entrants to the workforce, setting a precedent for her subsequent career in strategic business development and economic empowerment across South Africa.
Academic and Professional Foundation
Born in 1957 in Daveyton, Luhabe attended the University of Fort Hare, graduating in 1977. She later earned a degree in Commerce from the National University of Lesotho in 1981. Before launching her own ventures, she spent a decade navigating the corporate landscape, including a tenure at BMW, which provided the international experience necessary for her later advisory work.
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In 1993, Luhabe founded Women Investment Holdings to increase female participation in the South African economy. Her initiatives included the launch of a private equity fund totaling R120 million, specifically designed to supply capital to businesses owned by women. This effort signaled a shift in how local capital markets approached gender-inclusive funding and institutional support for female entrepreneurs.
Institutional Recognition and Leadership
Luhabe achieved international visibility for her work, notably appearing on the 2020 Forbes list of Africa's 50 most powerful women. Her contributions to global leadership were acknowledged by the World Economic Forum, while her service as a trustee for the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award Foundation led to her appointment as an Honorary Lieutenant of the Royal Victorian Order in 2014. Domestically, she served as Chancellor of the University of Johannesburg starting in 2006.
Fast facts
- Born: 1957, Daveyton, South Africa
- Education: University of Fort Hare, National University of Lesotho
- Consulting Firm Founded: 1991
- Women Investment Holdings Founded: 1993
- Publication: Defining moments (2002)
- Chancellor of the University of Johannesburg: 2006
- Honorary Lieutenant of the Royal Victorian Order: 2014
Questions readers ask
What was the purpose of Bridging the Gap?
It was a consulting firm created to prepare young black South Africans for the workforce and assist companies with integration.
What recognition has she received for her work?
Luhabe was named a Global Leader of Tomorrow by the World Economic Forum, an Honorary Lieutenant of the Royal Victorian Order, and one of Africa's 50 most powerful women by Forbes in 2020.
Achievements
- Educated at University of Fort Hare and National University of Lesotho
