Tag: gender equality

The book recognises the necessity of creating safe spaces for women to explore their dreams, hopes, goals, and purpose. The book captures the diverse experiences, opinions, strengths, perspectives and incredible value that women bring, it celebrates their journeys and stories so that they might progress and inspire and uplift others.

As we celebrate Women’s Month in South Africa, this is a time to reflect on the pivotal role male allies can play in amplifying women’s voices in the workplace, particularly in leadership roles.

In the dynamic and challenging business world, women’s leadership roles have been evolving rapidly, yet there remains much ground to cover. Kerry van der Merwe, the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Rainbow Chicken Ltd., stands as a testament to the progress made and the work still to be done. Her journey, marked by perseverance, strategic foresight, and a commitment to gender equality, offers valuable insights for aspiring female leaders and decision-makers across industries.

I am quite concerned that 29% of the women surveyed globally have expressed that they feel their right to live free from violence is deteriorating. Closer to home, it is concerning that at 19% more than the global average, 50% of the South African women surveyed feel that their right to earn an equal wage is deteriorating.

One would think that by the time that you’re well into adulthood you would know how to navigate friendships, be knowledgeable on the intricacies and requirements of making new friends and maintaining old friendships, but reading this book proved to be an eye-opener.

The Johannesburg High Court has ruled that the current law regulating maternity leave, adoption leave and surrogacy leave in South Africa is unconstitutional and invalid, on the basis that it discriminates against different types of parents and violates their dignity and the interests of their children. 

In a country faced with appalling numbers of gender-based violence (GBV), it is surprising how this crisis is often treated as a domestic issue - with very few policies within the workplace on how to help combat GBV, even with so much commemoration across business especially given it was recently women’s month.

As we celebrate Women’s Month in South Africa, it is essential to reflect on the incredible women who have been trailblazers in breaking barriers and attaining leadership positions across various industries. Women have defied societal norms, shattered glass ceilings, and proven time and again that they are a force to be reckoned with.

Africa’s CEOs are looking at new ways to generate revenue and are investing in new skills. Africa’s CEOs tell us how they are navigating today’s workplace challenges and building a more resilient and adaptable workforce. The African continent is a hub of economic activity with a growing business sector that is increasingly becoming globally competitive.

Dr Kofi Annan (former UN Secretary-General) once said, "There is no tool for development more effective than the empowerment of women," and he was right. Our continent continues to face development challenges because women and girls, in many societies today, continue to have a constricted channel to success in this ever-competitive world.