Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

We Are The Ones We Need: The War on Black Professionals in Corporate South Africa

Rate this book
Through its memoir-esque style, ‘We Are The Ones We Need’ delves into the challenges faced by black professionals in South Africa’s corporate environment. By sharing some of her own experiences from her years working within some of the country’s top companies, Ms. Bolani focuses on themes that include structural racism in organisations and the role executives play in sustaining discriminatory practices; pay discrimination; the emotional and psychological trauma suffered by black professionals as a result of corporate abuse and the suppression of black talent, especially black women. From the beginning of the book, Ms. Bolani takes the reader on a journey that reveals her personal and professional background, her interactions with her colleagues and senior executives, as well as how her experiences impacted on her and her loved ones. She closes off the book by sharing some of her own suggestions on how we can begin to change corporate culture and its weaponisation against black professionals.

Kindle Edition

Published December 19, 2018

13 people are currently reading
197 people want to read

About the author

Sihle Bolani

2 books6 followers

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
24 (30%)
4 stars
29 (36%)
3 stars
21 (26%)
2 stars
3 (3%)
1 star
2 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Profile Image for Phathu Musitha.
20 reviews26 followers
March 13, 2019
A quick, triggering read. What a flipping necessary book!

It details Sihle’s shocking and disturbing personal experience at one of SA’s big banks. She uses her experience to draw parallels and bring to attention many unspoken but common sufferings of Black people at the hands of those who dominate and control key structures within corporate SA, white people (ultimately).

Whiteness is a well-maintained disease. Shu! Lengthly correspondence between her and the bank’s management is laid bare for all to see, though names have been changed. I’m conflicted about the inclusion of ALL those emails and texts. Some definitely helped move the narrative forward (pun unavoidable). Though I feel others may have been summarized and simply referred back to, in order to avoid some of the repetition in the book.

Sihle shares her disappointment with complicit Black senior execs who didn’t flinch to improve her dire situation. The celebrated ‘first Blacks’ at the bank betrayed her and continue to betray US as a whole. And let’s not talk about HR. All these gatekeepers are enablers of note.

There are numerous lessons in this book. One of them is, stop the secrecy around salaries! She explains how it’s a trick that only serves to protect the organisation and maintain the practice of underpaying Black people. Shameful. 🤦🏾‍♀️

The book might not be the most poetic read, but it is written beautifully and with enough of an emotional tone to it.

The conclusion is the hero of this book for me. It wraps up well the objective and attentively talks about the dirty politics of white corporate SA as widely suffered by Black people, and mostly Black women. And delves into how we can and should unite to change the status quo. Girl served truth and tea. ☕️

This book is a one-woman protest, and a passionate reminder that corporate SA is decidedly anti-Black.

They messed with the wrong one. Thank you, Sihle, for writing this book. ✊🏾
Profile Image for Lorraine.
527 reviews157 followers
March 20, 2019
I gave "We Are The Ones We Need" all the stars because:

1. Corporate South Africa drives you, black woman, to self-doubt and turns around and say "Big girls don't cry" as if...
2. I know (myself included) and interact with a lot of black women who've trodden the path that Sihle was on 4 years ago and their journey was 23 years ago, so go figure.
3. It doesn't transform with time.
4. We know the enablers. They speak like us. Look like us.
5. The toxicity of these environments is limitless. You'll be left looking like a puddle.
6. Speaking up comes with so many labels. We know them. We've been called them. Don't these labels bother us no more...
7. How are we supposed to "live our best lives" when we are fatigued into submission.
8. Feminism is definitely NOT for everybody😭

I admire the ingenuousness in the attitude of the tone and the frankness in the speech. There were no sacred cows. The emails, (hope she is legally covered), the recalling of conversations, the whole nine yards. When you feel that your existence in a team is questioned, you automatically start collecting receipts.

The writing is not great and could have done with editing and proofreading but, who gives five damns when the experience is narrated mind-blowingly like Sihle has done. The narration had a pulling effect and kept me turning the pages.

This here is the reality and our lived experience. This is what and who our children will be battling with and against very soon. Something has to give. And soon...
Profile Image for Semole.
6 reviews9 followers
February 4, 2019
I read this book in two sittings, in between all my other commitments. Sihle's story is the story of many black professionals working in corporate SA, being undervalued and underpaid, being victimised because you dare stand for yourself.
I didn't like the long emails included in the book, and there are so many of them. Otherwise, a great read that will leave you feeling that you are not alone.
1 review
January 20, 2021
Sihle Bolani!! Whaaat a yeses!!

I bought the book at 15:15, started reading as soon as I got home at 16:45, I flipped through the pages and by 19:00, I was on page 118. Okay, I’m a fast reader but listen, I stopped at that random page only because I had started getting hot flashes and under-skin goosebumps, I needed a minute- to process HOW someone could live my very own experience in the legal corporate world so accurately and equally cruel!! I didn’t actually take a minute to process, I took the rest of the day!

She starts off the book on a highly relatable note- the surprise and gift of young motherhood in the midst of her pursuit for success. The book is boldly written, it narrates events one can easily and passionately follow. The characters, you cannot forget the characters, their names and their demeanor, perhaps because they are real. I could almost hear “a voice” as I read through it, it was a voice of a triumphant black woman who once thought there was no way out of the cut through corporate world but has now had an epiphany, one that has dragged on for years but has somehow freed her.

This book is a gift to black women in the corporate world, women who have been silent and needed a mouthpiece. Sihle becomes that that for all of us. Not just for black South African women, the book speaks a universal language, its for all black women!! JUST GO BUY IT, and keep it for your younger sister, daughter, or whoever intends to enter the corporate space.They will thank you for the gift that it is to black consciousness in the 21st century. I wish I read it straight after my LLB graduation.

PS: there are a lot of lengthy emails in the book and although they may seem ”too much”, I think they are necessary- its the only way the author can relay her exact experience. Had she narrated the emails herself, the book wouldn't have exposed the rawness of her reality and the crudeness of her antagonists. I for one had to go through a similar experience and the emails in her book aren't even quarter close to the length of MY own emails. They are necessary and I’d say read them all!

Triggering! Refreshing! Passionate! Steady! Beautiful read!
Profile Image for Zozo Mogoera.
71 reviews
August 12, 2019
Didn't meet expectations. The narration of incidents is repetitive. Although author believes it would assist those who are looking into corporate. I believe it will discourage anyone. No victories, her strategy didn't necessarily work at the end. Was hoping it would have insights into navigating corporate as blacks instead reminds us of what we already know.
Profile Image for Nicci Legoka.
19 reviews6 followers
March 20, 2019
Easy to read (I appreciated the short chapters), relatable to those who understand the dynamics and politics in corporate SA, an eye opener to those entering the world of work.
Profile Image for Mamotladi Matloga.
Author 4 books45 followers
June 21, 2020
I loved the book and could relate to the story. I believe it gives many young professionals, both in private and public employment, important guidelines about how to cope when faced with unfair treatment and discrimination in the workplace.

In her first job, Sihle's own resolute spirit might have created discomfort, when she'd demanded to know what plans existed for her career path; and because they clearly didn't exist...the demand created friction.
It was probably more a case of not getting each other's viewpoints and professional character. Sihle is driven and wants to plan ahead, especially where her career is concerned, and that might have come across, albeit wrongly, as more of a focus on the career ladder and remuneration rather than on the task at hand.

Her experience at the bank on the other hand was a totally different story. That a bank could step so hard on employees' toes just to appease a client, an agency they paid - not someone holding a bank account - smells of serious corruption and malpractice.

Her supervisor Amanda's tactics remind me of the character Lalang in Making Life and Lemonade, which I penned. I understood everything about the modus operandi.

Sihle also brings to light the unfortunate workplace "culture" of respecting the talkers more than the quieter employees - who are often the creative, analytical thinkers; the implementers.
People who want to understand an issue before opening their mouths are undermined while those who say something, no matter how unhelpful, are respected. It is important for managers to know how to make the most of individuals' strengths.

The author laments the lack of support from black colleagues who appeared to be cowards of sorts. But unlike Sihle who could lose her job today and join her mom's business the next, I'd imagine that many of her black colleagues would've been trapped by a paycheck they desperately NEEDED month after month. Up until we liberate ourselves from that kind of dependency, we will not dare rock the boat.

Barbara gave a comprehensive foreword, very rounded and well written by someone who'd clearly read the book in detail.

I loved the book. I was turned off a bit more by the profanity than the repetitions I noticed. Well done on writing such an important story. I have no doubt many will find comfort and strength through the book.
Profile Image for Amanda Nyanhongo.
62 reviews4 followers
March 23, 2021
I’ve been following Sihle’s work for over 2 years now. I was introduced to her work by a colleague and now friend of mine.

I’m usually a person who can articulate myself very well. But for the review of this book, I find myself at a loss for words. It felt like a late Saturday afternoon with a girlfriend of mine, having some wine while I was reading it. That’s how personal and intimate it felt. You can feel the essence of Sihle’s spirit in this book, undoubtedly.

I was laughing, crying, in shock... a rollercoaster of so many emotions. But one emotion stood out: I felt seen. Sihle is unapologetic about her pro blackness and being pro women. She has a relentless and a fighting spirit that stirs up a warm but fierce revolutionary spirit within you.

She is so raw and bares herself open in this book. So many invaluable lessons and “oh my goodness this has happened to me too” moments. There was a moment I stopped reading the book because it was too much emotionally, i almost wanted to email her to ask if this all really happened because it was horrifying.

The ending of this book (no spoilers so you can continue reading my review) is so powerful. It reminds me to be strong and tap into the power that I know is within as a black woman. It reminds that as I exist in the corporate world, despite the systematic oppression I face. I’m capable and brilliant. I should never have to believe otherwise.

I want to pass this body of work to every black woman in corporate I know.

Thank you Sihle.
Profile Image for Zoleka Mbilini.
13 reviews6 followers
August 20, 2019
An incredible read. Sihle story resonated with me profoundly. It’s sad really, that we continue to witness and even experience victimization in corporate SA and there’s no outlet to seek refuge in.

What struck a nerve with me was the reality that even our black counterparts will not stand with those that need their support in fear of losing a livelihood dependent on a job that’s eating away at your health and peace of mind etc.

“Key to understanding oppression is the ability to identify that oppression survives by instilling fear- the fear of losing something of value, which in this case, is your livelihood.”

The depth of this statement: “ The biggest problem with black executives in Corporate SA, they are paid millions and end up either transferring their own abusive experiences onto younger black professionals as a way to assert themselves or they just turn a blind eye to corporate violence against black professionals.” Because of this very nature, one should question how the cycle of corporate oppression will end?!
Profile Image for Zinhle Ngidi.
107 reviews30 followers
April 11, 2019


We Are The Ones We Need: The War On Black
Professionals In Corporate South Africa(2018) by Sihle Bolani

About the book
The author here shares her experience in the Corporate South Africa (Bank to be exact). The shocking realization to those who have never worked in the corporate and very real life story to those who have worked in such environment. The pain of a black young woman, failed by the system. Being undervalued, victimized, underpaid etc. Being vocal leading to being sidelined and top executives trying to push you out of the system hence most black people accept anything and questions nothing just to save their jobs. Many black people will talk in the corridors but they dare escalate such issues because they know the system will clean them out.

The most painful thing is when even black executives have been appointed in these top positions, they turn a blind eye. They are glorified blacks that have made it but do less or nothing for the young black professionals. They have lended, why bother? The truth in this book will evoke feelings of anger to a white man but (for me) mostly to the black brothers that in turn have decided to adopt the same system against their fellow black young sisters and brothers.

Sihle was one of those strong black women who knew her rights, skilled, experienced and educated. She tried everything possible to win against the system. She shares every detail of her efforts in trying to be recognized but nothing came forth. They tried pushing her out but she stood strong until one day she gave up for her own sanity and for her health.

Her story is not unique but less shared, we have witnessed people losing their lives, some go through depression and end up sent to a risk pool because they cannot perform their duties anymore. The system has made some lose their confidence and end up thinking they do not have what it takes or they worthless. They doubt their capabilities.
Confidentiality of salaries- why confidential? Maybe not to know how much your white colleague earns or izimpimpi (black ass lickers) earn. But asikho lapho!!!

My wish list
Is for black executives to get this book and do introspection, and start realizing how they have failed the young ones and do something. The freedom that our heroes fought for should be working for us. The black child should be excelling, be recognized and be remunerated accordingly.
For blacks to know that we need each other and we have to stand together against such system. Support and encourage one another.

**Emails were too much though to read in this book especially because they contained something that she had addressed**

Thanks to you Sihle for sharing such a true story. Hopefully your story touches lot of relevant people and we see change in these corporate companies.
Profile Image for Letlhogonolo Mokgoroane.
58 reviews33 followers
March 17, 2019
The system is designed to convince you that your pain, your grievances and your experiences are all imagined.’ –Sihle Bolani


This book starts an important conversation about the [non] futures and progress of Black people in corporate South Africa. Through Sihle’s lived experience we get to know about some of the horrors she endured for the sake of earning a living. My overwhelming feeling while reading and after is anger about the state of corporate South Africa. It is arguable that things have changed but how much have they really changed?
Profile Image for Katlego Monareng.
1 review
April 27, 2019
Wow!! This book clearly details the extent to which corporate SA can tear down black people! It is so real, I felt like I was going through what Sihle went through in one of SA’s biggest banks. A definite read, a necessary read, a powerful read!
Profile Image for Rirhandzu Rissenga.
115 reviews
September 28, 2020
It was very interesting read, couldn’t put it down. Was so curious on finding out what’s next🤔. It’s so unfortunate that people can be so evil at workplace , I was so puzzled even asked myself how do they sleep at night knowing that they making the corporate space unbearable.
3 reviews
February 9, 2020
I got this book from my neighbour on a Friday evening.

I started reading it that night and I could not put it down as I needed to turn a few more pages to understand how an exchange ended, how an email trail petered out and how in God’s fine earth one can be so persecuted.
Many times I caught myself reliving similar experiences I have gone through. I had some, “AHA!”, moments when I identified what I had gone through based on a section I had read. Ever had those moments when you think to yourself, “Man, so that’s what that was?!”
I was disappointed by the lack of support Sihle got. And from reading the whole book, it is shocking that not one person took a stand for her. Yeah, there were the apologies, and inane offers to assist. But to think that not one person from the organisation was bold enough to state to her, “I believe you. I will fight with you till the end.”

I would have liked for Sihle to tell me how the three witches flourished (as I assume they did) after she left. Has she bumped into them in industry settings? Did they contact her when she was publishing her book? What is the general feedback from those who remained in the institution?

Kudus to Sihle for providing us with a template of how to handle ourselves with grace and dignity against the odds. Aluta continua!
14 reviews3 followers
July 30, 2020
WE ARE THE ONES WE NEED...to stand up for ourselves, to speak up for ourselves, to speak up against unfairness and injustice, to be the voice for the voiceless.

This is a book every black professional should read. Whether or not you have experienced discrimination in the workplace, knowing what could happen to you will equip you in dealing with such matters. You never think it can happen to you until it happens to you. And even if it doesn’t happen to you, if you see it happening, you can always offer support to someone experiencing discrimination. You may not feel you are in a position to speak up for them but you can guide them to books like these or to the author or other people who may have spoken up about what they went through.

I am so proud of Sihle and speaking her truth. Of not being afraid, of not being discouraged, of standing up for what is right and what she believed in. She not only stood up for herself, but she stood up for many black professionals who may not feel they have the courage to take a stand and speak up against unfairness and injustice in the workplace.

This is a story of leadership, of courage, of strength, of determination, of confidence, of pursuing justice and finding peace. We are definitely the ones we need if we are to change the status quo
Profile Image for Lerato Nonyane.
8 reviews7 followers
February 24, 2021
This is a required tale on how black professionals experience corporate South Africa. I found my story in various aspects of Sihle's story. The psychological bullying that has been accepted as standard as well as the silence that is complicit in perpetuating the toxic environment as well as HR's indifference.

I found that towards the end where she details processes, it is a bit of a mouth full and does not flow as seamlessly as the rest of the book. But the details are important for those going through the same.

It is a must read.
7 reviews
July 7, 2019
It was okay, just needed more detail of experiences and more emotions.
34 reviews1 follower
April 2, 2021
This book should come with a trigger warning. A reminder of how brutal corporate can be and how we need to identify and dismantle structures of institutional racism in the workplace.
Profile Image for Mwayi.
2 reviews1 follower
July 13, 2021
This one was a quick read for me and very relatable.. the corporate world and the office politics it comes with is so real! I enjoyed this read and sympathised with the author.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.