We all know that it is important to focus on Employment Equity and the reasons these policies, procedures and the measurements have been put into place. Hopefully this is accompanied with a sense of pride, reason and backed with knowledge. But what about the other (previously) disadvantaged minorities? Focus is concentrated on legalities whereas the softer side, may I say the humanity, seems to falter. Certainly a notion as strong as empowerment is filled with meaning and sentiment, a collective strive for a splendid integrated nation. Although the minorities I refer to, stretch further than females, this article has its focus on this group.

We have one of the most vibrant and progressive constitutions in the world that state the importance of equality and our rights as South Africans. So, why might you ask is it important to add the extra effort, the extra emphasis on uplifting women in the workplace? Because uplifting women lies at the center of transformation of our country. The majority of people living in this country are female. Unemployment is higher for women than for men, women particularly black women, have less access to paid employment and as in the past, still receive lower income. Women account for only 25% of managerial positions. Studies have shown repeatedly that elevating a female elevates the lives of others. Investing in a female uplifts a family, a community and ultimately a country.

The majority of people living in this country are female. Unemployment is higher for women than for men, women particularly black women, have less access to paid employment and as in the past, still receive lower income

The South African Government has committed to various international transformational policies where women empowerment is at the core of such policy, for instance the millennium Development Goals and the Beijing Platform for Action. To make this work we all however need to pledge and do our part. Economic growth and empowerment of our people is important to improve life for all. It is not possible to eradicate inequality without taking the gender gap into account. History, apartheid and a patriarchal past have left scars on all aspects of life and most definitely on the workforce.

You might wonder how one can make a difference… very simple by placing extra emphasis on women when employing (especially in traditionally male industries) and also by developing females within the workplace and in general ensuring recognition for gender and specifically black women. Most important is to be informed and aware of what we are working towards as a nation and the problems we need to eradicate to fast-track the empowerment of all

Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.
– Bishop Desmond Tutu

~ Melanie Taljaard