Gender Empowerment and DEI in South Africa’s Business Landscape

In South Africa, the conversation about gender empowerment and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in business is not just a matter of corporate responsibility, it is a national priority. As women leaders, we carry the responsibility of advancing these ideals while navigating a complex social and economic landscape that often undervalues our contributions. Despite the legislative strides our country has made in promoting gender equality, the workplace and entrepreneurship remain spaces where systemic challenges persist.

To truly empower women in South Africa, we need to move beyond surface-level initiatives and address the root causes of inequity. Empowerment is not a mere act of inclusion but a deliberate transformation of systems, cultures, and practices that have historically marginalised women, particularly Black women. It is time to shift the narrative from tokenism to authentic inclusion and from compliance to conscious commitment.

The State of Gender Empowerment in South Africa

South Africa has a progressive framework of laws supporting gender equality, from the Constitution to the Employment Equity Act. Yet, the gaps between policy and practice remain glaring. Women continue to face barriers such as the gender pay gap, underrepresentation in executive roles, and limited access to entrepreneurial funding.

For instance, the 2025 SNG Grant Thornton Women in Business report reveals that over the past 21 years, the proportion of South African women in senior management positions has increased from 26.5% to 47.2%, surpassing the global average[i]. Nevertheless, the report highlights that true gender parity in mid-market companies is still a long way off, with projections indicating it won’t be achieved until 2051.

In the realm of entrepreneurship, Mastercard research indicates that although 50% of South African women have ventured into entrepreneurship, 44% have faced funding shortages and 41% have struggled with a lack of resources, hindering their success as business owners[ii]. These figures highlight the pressing need for systemic change.

Leadership Beyond Representation

Representation is a critical first step, but it is not the final destination. Having women at the table is meaningless if they lack the power to influence decisions. Authentic empowerment requires creating environments where women not only have a seat but also a voice that is valued and respected.

As a leader with over two decades of experience in human resources, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of authentic leadership. Women leaders often bring unique perspectives rooted in empathy, collaboration, and resilience—qualities that drive innovation and foster inclusive workplace cultures.

However, we must also recognise that the burden of change cannot rest solely on women. Male allies and organisational leaders must actively challenge biases, dismantle barriers, and champion policies that enable gender equity. True empowerment is a collective effort that requires courage, accountability, and sustained commitment.

The Role of DEI in Business Transformation

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are not just moral imperatives; they are business imperatives. Research consistently shows that diverse teams outperform homogenous ones, driving better decision-making, innovation, and financial performance. In a country as diverse as South Africa, failing to embrace DEI is not just shortsighted—it is a missed opportunity for competitive advantage.

In my role as Chief People Officer at Daybreak Foods, I have seen the transformative impact of embedding DEI into the core of business strategy. It starts with leadership that is intentional about fostering an inclusive culture, where employees feel valued for their contributions and empowered to thrive.

This requires more than just policies and programs—it demands a shift in mindset. Organisations must be willing to confront uncomfortable truths about bias, privilege, and systemic inequality. DEI is not a one-time initiative; it is an ongoing journey that requires continuous reflection, learning, and adaptation.

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurship is a powerful vehicle for economic empowerment, but for South African women, the road is often fraught with challenges. Access to funding, mentorship, and networks remains limited, particularly for women from marginalized communities.

As leaders, we have a responsibility to create ecosystems that support women entrepreneurs. This includes advocating for funding models that prioritise inclusivity, providing mentorship opportunities, and leveraging our networks to open doors for others.

I am inspired by the resilience and ingenuity of South African women entrepreneurs who, despite the odds, continue to build thriving businesses. Their stories remind us that empowerment is not just about breaking barriers—it is about creating pathways for others to succeed.

Call to Action: Building a Legacy of Empowerment

As women leaders, we have the power to shape the future of gender empowerment and DEI in South Africa. But this requires bold action and unwavering commitment.

First, we must lead by example. Whether in the boardroom or the marketplace, our leadership should reflect the values we wish to see in the world. This means mentoring the next generation of women leaders, advocating for equitable policies, and challenging systems that perpetuate inequality.

Second, we must hold organisations accountable. Businesses must move beyond performative allyship and invest in meaningful change. This includes implementing transparent pay structures, ensuring equitable access to opportunities, and fostering cultures of inclusion.

Finally, we must remember that empowerment is not just about individual success—it is about collective progress. When one woman rises, she lifts others with her. Let us build a legacy of empowerment that transcends our individual achievements and transforms the fabric of our society.

In conclusion, the journey toward gender empowerment and DEI in South Africa is far from over, but we are making progress. As women leaders, we have the opportunity—and the responsibility—to drive this change.

Let us be the architects of a future where every woman can thrive, where diversity is celebrated, and where inclusion is the foundation of our success. Together, we can break barriers, shatter ceilings, and create a South Africa that lives up to its promise of equality and opportunity for all.

[i] https://www.grantthornton.co.za/insights2/women-in-business-2025/