Johannesburg, South Africa — In a groundbreaking move for South Africa’s technology sector, BCX has announced the launch of 12 days of Feminine Health Leave per calendar year for all permanent employees. This progressive policy is designed to support a spectrum of gender-related health experiences and reduce stigma in the workplace.

The new benefit is the cornerstone of BCX’s refreshed Employee Value Proposition (EVP), which also includes paid parental leave and a revamped employee referral programme targeting mid-to-senior level roles. These updates reflect BCX’s commitment to building a truly inclusive, supportive, and future-focused work culture.

“Feminine Health Leave is more than a policy — it’s a statement of values,” said Hope Lukoto, Chief Human Resources Officer at BCX. “It says we believe our employees should not have to choose between their health and their work. It’s time we normalise care and recognise that inclusion is not passive; it must be practiced.”

Unlike traditional sick leave, Feminine Health Leave acknowledges the unique, recurring and often overlooked health needs related to menstruation, menopause, hormonal challenges, and other reproductive health experiences. While named Feminine Health Leave, the policy is inclusive and available to all permanent BCX employees, regardless of gender identity.

“This is about dignity, visibility, and trust,” added Lukoto. “We’re not just ticking boxes. We’re building a culture where people can bring their full selves to work, without having to justify their needs.”

The EVP refresh aligns with global conversations around care as economic infrastructure. As South Africa leads the G20 Presidency, feminist policy, unpaid care, and workplace equity are being pushed to the forefront of international dialogue.

“We’re not waiting for permission to lead differently,” said Lukoto. “We are proud to be among the first major employers in the region to centre care—and especially feminine health—as core to our people strategy.”

These policy shifts reflect BCX’s ongoing purpose: to innovate solutions for how people learn, live, and work.

Media Contact:
Nomvuyo Tena
Senior Specialist: Communications and Content
nomvuyo.tena@bcx.co.za
+27 65 999 4126]

About BCX
BCX is a leading South African technology company and a subsidiary of the Telkom Group. For over 40 years, BCX has supported the digital transformation journeys of enterprises and public sector institutions across Africa, delivering solutions that centre on people, purpose and performance.