“Empowering women in leadership positions is not merely a matter of fairness but a strategic necessity for any business aiming for sustainable success.” – Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka. It’s time to turn talk into action.

In the dynamic landscape of modern business, the call for gender empowerment and diversity has never been more pronounced. South Africa, with its rich heritage and vibrant economic ecosystem, stands at the forefront of this crucial movement. Women leaders in the country are not only advocating for gender equality but are also setting exemplary standards for fostering inclusive and innovative work environments. 

As South Africans recently marked 30 years since democracy and 68 since the historic 1956 march against oppressive pass laws, it is essential to reflect on ongoing efforts and progress. Despite significant strides, gender inequality, particularly in technology and leadership, remains a challenge that continues to demand attention.

The current statistics on women’s inclusion in the ICT industry highlight the work that remains. In South Africa, women hold only 23% of tech jobs, amounting to just 56,000 women in ICT roles. Given that this sector contributes nearly 6% to the GDP and the country has a working population of around 40 million, these figures are sobering. 

Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, former Executive Director of UN Women, in her tenure, highlighted the critical need for women’s participation in business leadership roles, stating, “Empowering women in leadership positions is not merely a matter of fairness but a strategic necessity for any business aiming for sustainable success.”

There is an urgent need for robust policies that promote gender equality and secure funding for initiatives supporting women in tech. The South African government must take decisive action, and the country finds itself at a pivotal moment as the Government of National Unity reassesses its approach to these issues. As women’s solidarity is celebrated, reaffirming the commitment to empowering women in tech becomes vital. Recognising the talent, passion, and potential of women in this field and investing in their future is essential for progress.

The tech industry, a critical arena for gender equality and diversity, presents significant opportunities for advancement. However, breaking into this male-dominated space remains a challenge. Women often face questions and scrutiny not posed to their male counterparts, highlighting the unique difficulties they encounter. These challenges are compounded by double standards and gender biases, which can make advancing to leadership roles especially tough. Corporate South Africa remains heavily male-oriented, and there is a real need for allyship. Male colleagues and leaders must also prioritise inclusivity in the workplace.

The so-called ‘boys’ clubs’ in the corporate world hinder women’s success and progress. Women in IT leadership roles must actively seek to break into these spaces while remaining authentic. For example, men often make important business decisions while playing golf, and women must find effective ways to engage in these environments. Setting boundaries and advocating for flexible scheduling are crucial elements in fostering inclusivity and equality. Addressing gender inequality also requires a shift in the narrative around women’s roles and expectations. Women should not feel compelled to apologise for balancing professional and personal responsibilities. Changing this narrative is key to overcoming systemic barriers, normalising women’s presence in all roles, and ensuring accommodating work environments. Women should assert their needs and communicate what works for them without seeking permission or apologising.

Mentorship also plays a vital role not only in personal growth but also in thriving in male-dominated fields. It involves both having mentors and being one, particularly for younger generations entering tech and leadership roles. Mentorship provides essential guidance and support in navigating career complexities.

To foster more inclusive environments, consider the following actionable steps:

1. Changing narratives: Proactively change narratives by being assertive about your needs and setting boundaries that work for you.
2. Addressing internal barriers: Evaluate and address internal barriers to prevent giving away power in the face of resistance. Advocate for yourself in all professional settings.
3. Investing in mentorship: Dedicate time to mentoring younger generations entering tech and leadership roles. This investment helps build a pipeline of future leaders and supports inclusive policies.
4. Supporting work-life balance: Advocate for and support policies that promote work-life balance, including flexible scheduling and accommodating diverse responsibilities.
5. Building relationships with allies: Cultivate relationships with male allies and executive assistants who can help plan more inclusive events and advocate for your presence in key meetings and discussions.

South Africa’s rich heritage is a powerful asset that informs its business practices and leadership styles. Embracing this heritage while driving business success is a unique strength of South African women leaders. The country’s diverse cultural landscape offers valuable perspectives and approaches to leadership. Businesses in South Africa are increasingly recognising the importance of celebrating their cultural heritage and leveraging it as a strength. This approach not only enhances the inclusivity of their work environments but also resonates with a broader audience, creating a more authentic and impactful business presence.

The concept that “you can’t be what you can’t see” is crucial for empowering women in the workplace and beyond. Role models are essential, and all women should remain committed to addressing the gender imbalance in South Africa’s ICT sector. Determination to push boundaries and effect change will pave the way for a more inclusive and empowered future for women in leadership and technology. As the saying goes, “It’s not about who is going to let me; it’s about who is going to stop me!”