Change 1 Woman (C1W) spoke to female industry trailblazers about industry trends, empowering women in the industry, and more. C1W is an initiative dedicated to empowering women in branding, print and signage through connection, conversation and support.
Aziza Mahomed, Business Development and Channel Manager – Epson, Kemtek
What do you love most about working in the printing/signage industry?
Seeing how our work directly transforms a brand’s presence. Over the years, I’ve worked with incredible technologies, from Epson to Canon to Aristo, and each solution has helped clients unlock new possibilities. For me, the real joy comes when I walk into a space and see a brand brought to life through signage or print, knowing I played a part in that. It’s an industry where creativity meets business impact, and that balance is what keeps me inspired.
What are the top three printing/signage industry trends for 2025?
Sustainability is no longer optional. Customers expect eco-friendly substrates, inks, and responsible practices, and we’re seeing strong demand for greener choices.
On-demand customisation. Short run, quick turnaround jobs are increasingly important, and technology is making them more efficient. Clients want flexibility and speed without compromising quality.
Tech-driven workflows. Automation, AI and integrated software are reshaping how we work. Those who embrace these tools can scale, reduce errors, and focus more on creativity and customer solutions.
What is the key to success in this industry?
I’ve found success comes from three things: adaptability, strong relationships, and consistent delivery. Technology changes fast, and so do client needs. Staying informed, listening carefully, and offering solutions that solve real challenges has allowed me to build long-term partnerships. At the heart of it, trust and reliability matter most. Clients remember when you go the extra mile.
What can be done to attract young female talent into the industry?
When I first entered this industry, there weren’t many women in technical or leadership roles. I believe we need to actively showcase the opportunities through mentorship, exposure to real projects, and internships. If young women can see role models and hear the stories of women succeeding here, they’ll realise this is not a ‘male-only’ space but one filled with creativity, innovation, and career growth. I’ve seen how empowering it is when women feel included and valued. C1W supports these initiatives. Printing SA are doing a phenomenal job in introducing the printing sector to schools, and I have had the honour of participating in these events. Watching young minds be inspired by the world of print is incredibly rewarding.
What can be done to support women currently in the industry?
Support comes from creating platforms for women to connect, share, and grow. In my journey, mentorship has been key, and I believe formal mentorship networks can make a huge difference. Upskilling, leadership training, and recognising women’s contributions are equally important. Most of all, building a culture where women’s voices are respected and heard will not only support women but strengthen the industry overall. I am enrolled to complete an internationally recognised business coaching course, and would be honoured to give back to the industry, and to inspire more ladypreneurs to live their dreams, both from a business and personal growth path.
Ché Wannenburg, External Sales, Screenline
What do you love most about working in the printing/signage industry?
The diversity — no two projects are ever the same. Each client brings a new challenge, whether it’s creative design, unique materials, or large-scale branding. The variety keeps the work exciting and allows me to constantly learn, adapt, and deliver solutions that make a real impact.
What are the top three printing/signage industry trends for 2025?
The first is sustainability, with eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient production becoming the standard. The second is smart and connected branding, offering dynamic, interactive, and personalised experiences that adapt in real time. Finally, there is experiential and storytelling branding, where creative designs, textures, and lighting are used to immerse audiences and strengthen brand identity. Together, these trends highlight a move toward greener practices, smarter technology, and more engaging visual communication.
What is the key to success in this industry?
Adaptability. For me, that means staying ahead of trends, embracing new technology, and finding creative yet practical solutions that meet each client’s needs. I’ve also found that strong relationships built on reliability, quality, and trust are just as important as the final product. When you can balance innovation with consistency and add real value for your clients, that’s when you stand out.
What can be done to attract young female talent into the industry?
It really comes down to showing them the creative and innovative side of what we do. It’s not only about machines and production — there’s design, branding, problem-solving, and even sustainability, which can be very exciting career paths.
From my experience, mentorship and guidance make a huge difference, because when young women see others thriving in the industry, it becomes easier to picture themselves here too. Creating supportive, inclusive environments where growth and creativity are encouraged is what will keep that talent inspired and engaged. There truly is something for everyone in the printing industry.
What can be done to support women currently in the industry?
Supporting women in the printing industry means creating spaces where their voices are heard and valued, and where young women feel safe to grow and contribute. Recognition, mentorship, and opportunities for leadership are so important, along with providing flexibility that allows for a healthy work–life balance. I’ve seen how much confidence develops when women are trusted with responsibility and encouraged to share their ideas. For me, it’s about building an inclusive and supportive culture where women feel safe, respected, and empowered to progress without limitations.
Jean Lloyd, Editor and Content Creator – Inkish
What do you love most about working in the printing/signage industry?
Since 1999, what I’ve loved most is the creativity, innovation, and resilience this industry represents. Print and digital print are constantly evolving, driven by breakthroughs in inkjet technology, sustainability in substrates, and automation in workflows. But beyond the technology, it’s the people and the passion that make this industry special. Printing tells stories, builds brands, and connects communities, and being part of that is deeply fulfilling. I have travelled the world in this industry and been fortunate enough to have lived in a few countries where I’ve been exposed to so many different languages, cultures, and how business varies from country to country, yet in print, we are all so connected.
What are the top three printing/signage industry trends for 2025?
Digital transformation and inkjet growth: inkjet is no longer ’emerging’; it’s maturing — replacing analogue in many segments, especially when personalisation comes into play — it’s volume-dependent and has eaten away at the short run market (commercial and packaging).
Sustainable solutions: eco-friendly inks, recyclable substrates, and closed-loop production are no longer optional; they are business imperatives.
Automation and smart workflows: AI-driven colour management, automated finishing, and web-to-print platforms are reducing waste and driving profitability.
What can be done to attract young female talent into the industry?
– Create visibility: highlight success stories of women thriving in print to show young girls what’s possible.
– Mentorship programmes: pair experienced women with students and graduates to guide career entry.
– Industry-academic partnerships: work with universities and design schools to introduce print as a dynamic career option, not just a ‘behind-the-scenes’ process.
– Youth events and open days: organise factory tours, print hackathons, and hands-on workshops designed for young women.
What can be done to support women currently in the industry?
– Networking platforms: regular Women in Print South Africa meet-ups, roundtables, and online communities for sharing ideas and challenges.
– Skill-building workshops: training in leadership, technology, and entrepreneurship tailored for women in print.
– Visibility and recognition: celebrate women’s achievements through awards, media coverage, and case studies.
Deliverable Ideas For Women In Print South Africa
– Mentorship circles: structured monthly mentorship sessions pairing experienced women with newcomers.
– PrintHer Voice Podcast/Video Series: share real stories of women in print (successes, lessons, challenges) across platforms like Women in Print mentorship programmes, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Global and local media can make these needs very visible.
– Scholarship and internship programmes: targeted bursaries and internships for young women studying design, engineering, or production.
– Women in Print Awards SA: recognition programme that shines a spotlight on role models and innovators.
– Digital Resource Hub: a centralised online platform with toolkits, webinars, and career guides for women in print.
How Experienced Women Can Assist
– Be visible: speak at conferences, publish articles, and share your journey openly.
– Mentor and sponsor: offer not just guidance, but also open doors, recommend women for projects, roles, and opportunities.
– Advocate for inclusion: use influence to encourage companies to promote women into leadership roles.
– Share skills: host training sessions in niche areas like digital inkjet, sustainability, or workflow automation.
– Build bridges: Connect younger women with your networks, locally and globally.
If I had known earlier about the doors this industry could open, I would have entered it sooner. Many women in print have risen from the bottom to the boardroom — but too often, young women lack visible role models. That’s why it’s up to us to be accessible, supportive, and to help the next generation thrive.
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