Imposter Syndrome
REFLECTING ON THE FIRST #TEAFORSHE: IMPOSTER SYNDROME
IPA SA Section Launches its 1st Zoom Meeting: A Meaningful Initiative from Women in the Profession
The IPA SA Section proudly hosted its inaugural #Tea for SHE event, themed “Imposter Syndrome”, on 7 April 2026. This online meeting marked the beginning of an exciting series designed to celebrate women, foster connection, and create empowering conversations around the unique challenges and achievements of women in our community.
Following the first International #TEAforSHE held on 5 March 2026, Magda Raducu offered to assist IPA Section South Africa in hosting an event exclusively for IPA SA ladies and will continue assisting with future events. Karen Duckworth, President of the International Police Association Section UK and IEB Professional Commission Project Lead – #SHEisIPA, coordinated the Zoom meeting.
In anticipation of International Women’s Day, the #SHEisIPA team welcomed members and guests, inviting all women interested in joining a supportive community to participate in this new initiative. The session began promptly at 17:00 CET, focusing on understanding Imposter Syndrome – a psychological pattern where individuals doubt their accomplishments and fear being exposed as frauds. This topic resonated strongly, especially in professional spaces where self-doubt persists despite clear competence and success.
A total of 17 IPA SA members participated in this meaningful Zoom session, representing various regions and roles:
- President of the International Police Association Section UK and IEB Professional Commission Project Lead – #SHEisIPA, Karen Duckworth
- IPA #SHEisIPA Founder Member, Magda Raducu
- IPA SA Ambassador, Tessa Deyzel (KZN)
- IPA KwaZulu-Natal: Amanda Lombard & Brigadier Ngubane
- IPA Free State Region: Natasha Swart & Marina Esterhuyse
- IPA Mpumalanga Region: Jabu & Sonto Simelane
- IPA West Rand Region: Natasha Calitz
- IPA Garden Route: Erica Van Eck, Alta Nigrini, Charleen Windwaai, Lee-Ann, Sharon Coetzee, Ronell Cloete
- Linda Rodriguez (International #SHEisIPA Representative)
Each attendee brought unique perspectives and experiences, contributing to a lively and honest dialogue.
The session was notable for its welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, encouraging participants to openly share their experiences of self-doubt and the pressures of measuring up – often in comparison to male colleagues. The facilitator introduced the concept of Imposter Syndrome with relatable examples, creating space for practical discussion on recognising and challenging negative self-talk.
Attendees discussed strategies for building self-confidence, the importance of affirmations, and the value of daring to be oneself in all spheres of life. Key messages included “Believe in yourself,” “We must dare to be ourselves,” and recognising the power and impact women have in the world. The interactive format ensured everyone felt heard, validated, and inspired to grow.
The event also included the launch of the “Write a Letter to Yourself” project, which was enthusiastically received. This reflective exercise is designed to help participants acknowledge their strengths, confront self-doubt, and reinforce a positive self-image.
Many attendees expressed appreciation for the supportive environment and practical takeaways.
The first #Tea for SHE session was well-organised, meaningful, and showcased the potential of the IPA SA Section’s new initiative. Plans are in place to share session recordings with those unable to attend live, ensuring these empowering conversations reach the wider IPA community.
This first gathering establishes a strong foundation for ongoing engagement, support, and empowerment. With each new event, the IPA SA Section looks forward to growing its vibrant IPA community and continuing to champion the voices and experiences of women in the profession.
Thank you to all the regions that participated in this first of a series of meetings for the year.
IPA SA would like to extend a big heartwarming thank you to Karen Duckworth and Magda Raducu for their assistance in empowering the IPA SA ladies.
Compiled by: Tessa Deyzel