In a ground-breaking collaboration, the International Women’s Forum South Africa (IWFSA) and WDB Investment Holdings (WDBIH) are joining forces to address the pressing issues of women’s economic and social justice in South Africa. These women-founded and women-led organizations have a proven track record of driving change and advancing women in business and society.
Established in 2019, the Catalytic Strategy is a joint project aimed at identifying effective mechanisms for facilitating access to research and leveraging this information to shape South African policy. The goal is to influence debate, drive industries and policy change on critical issues related to women’s economic justice.
The women most affected by economic and social injustices include those from disadvantaged areas, rural regions with limited resources, black women facing discrimination, survivors of gender-based violence, and those in informal employment without legislative protection.
The leaders of IWFSA and WDBIH believe that the country needs a new story, a new vision, and a resuscitation of transformation objectives. With women constituting 51% of the population, their underrepresentation in decision-making positions hampers true economic inclusion.
The organizations are actively involved in advocacy for evidence-based legislation. They conduct intensive research, review legislation, and collaborate with various stakeholders, including gender activists, legal experts, and researchers.
Their recent Gender Pay Gap study, a first outside the formal work environment, aims to contribute to the creation of gender-specific legislation.
The recent Gender Pay Gap study, which findings will be presented at the Awards, extends beyond conventional workplaces, seeks to advocate for a holistic approach to address inequality, exclusion, and biases in diverse societal contexts. The ultimate goal is to advocate for a Gender Specific Legislation.
Nordic countries like Norway, Iceland, and Sweden serve as exemplary models in addressing women’s economic and social justice. Initiatives in these nations include generous parental leave policies, affordable childcare, and efforts to promote work-life balance. Rwanda, with the highest percentage of women in parliament globally, and Iceland, known for closing the gender pay gap, stand out as success stories.
With the world facing financial crises, conflicts, and pandemics, the organizations stress the need for inclusivity. They advocate for women’s inclusion in decision-making, the implementation, monitoring, and enforcement of inclusive policies, an end to the gender pay gap, and recognition of unpaid work.
Research indicates that closing the gender gap could add trillions to the global economy. In South Africa, uplifting just 13% of women in the workplace to medium-skill roles could add billions to the GDP. Focusing on empowerment and leadership remain a critical developmental agenda for all women in their diversities.
The 2023 Inaugural Leadership Recognition Awards Ceremony will take place on 6 December 2023 at 6pm at a private venue, under the theme, Championing change – innovative solutions for an equitable Future.
The Leadership Recognition Award plays a pivotal role in inspiring positive change by acknowledging organizations who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to advancing women’s economic and social justice in our country. By spotlighting their achievements, the award not only celebrates their accomplishments but also serves as a powerful catalyst, encouraging others to emulate their efforts. This recognition fosters a culture of empowerment, motivates further advocacy, and amplifies the collective impact towards achieving an inclusive economy in our country.
Media who wish to cover the awards will need to apply for media accreditation by 1 December 2023 no later than 12:00 via thando@inginousholdings.co.za
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