International Women’s Forum of South Africa

We’re excited to share that the Women Economic Justice Catalytic Strategy Partnership, being the International Women's Forum South Africa (IWFSA) and WDB Investment Holdings (WDBIH), are hosting the Gender-Inclusive Tax Roundtable on October 25, 2024. This roundtable will bring together thought leaders and experts to explore the critical need for gender-inclusive tax reform and discuss the capacity needed to implement these changes effectively. By examining the systemic challenges women face in tax systems, we aim to craft inclusive financial policies that empower all households. Stay tuned as we look forward to sharing key findings from the event soon. #GenderInclusiveTax #EconomicJustice #WomenInLeadership

This Friday, we look back at the 2023 IWFSA Hall of Femme Awards, where we congregated under the theme of "Pay It Forward." That night, we honoured Dr Winnie Karagwa Byanima, Advocate Monjaku Gumbi and Dr Brigalia Bam. The annual 2024 IWFSA Hall of Femme Awards will soon be upon us, and we want YOU tell us about how you "Inspire, Impact and Ignite". How are you practicing authentic leadership; and uplifting other women in your community, organisation or circle? Let us know in the comments below! The 2024 IWFSA Hall of Femme awards is brought to you by Standard Bank South Africa #HallofFemme24 #LiftAsWeRise

The International Women’s Forum Leadership Fellows Program accelerates the career path of high-performing women, catalysing their potential, and elevating their impact within companies worldwide. The Program is unique among leadership development programs globally. Its scope, rigour, and results make it an unparalleled tool for career development and succession planning. Each year, a geographically, culturally, ethnically, and professionally diverse group of up to 45 leaders in corporate, government, nonprofit, academic, and entrepreneurial and social impact organizations is selected. Selection is based on a variety of factors; including track records of significant direct accomplishments within their organizations, as well as a record of bringing about positive change and taking action for women in their organizations and communities. The Fellowship provides a powerful array of resources to strengthen the next generation of women leaders. A world class curriculum; provided by INSEAD and Harvard Business School. Engagement with International Women's Forum's global membership at conferences that feature cutting-edge content and top-notch speakers. Along with this is intensive and bespoke mentoring to help Fellows achieve individual professional development goals. Please join us in congratulating IWFSA Fasset (Finance and Accounting Services Seta) Women’s Leadership Programme Alumni Karen Matsiko Taylor and Khosi Bambisa, on their selection to join the 31st class of the Leadership Fellows Program. We also extend our heartfelt congratulations to our esteemed stakeholder, Ms. Ayanda Mafuleka, on her selection to the program.

The long-awaited First and Second Companies Amendment Bills were signed into law by the President in July of 2024, and introduce significant changes to corporate pay gap disclosure practices. These changes affect both listed companies and state-owned enterprises; which must now prepare to comply with the new regulations. International Women’s Forum South Africa (IWFSA) Alumni Network members Lester Thobejane (MBA.EDP.PGDP) and Cwayita Magwegwe will be co-hosting this panel; which includes legal expert Wynne Kossuth and the renowned Prof. Mervyn King. Moderated by IWFSA member Shirley Machaba, the panel will explore the critical impact of the Companies Act Amendments on Remuneration and Financial Disclosure in South Africa. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to gain valuable insights today at 17h30. Register to join this important conversation on the link below: https://lnkd.in/dJQMMm-F

"IWFSA has offered me an opportunity of a lifetime! In all our interactions, I get reminded that behind every successful woman is a tribe of other successful women who have her back." - Testimonial from Nompilo Mkhize, IFWLP MMDP Participant. Upon graduating from the IWFSA Fasset (Finance and Accounting Services Seta) Women's Leadership Programme, alumni have the opportunity to serve as mentors to future women leaders, and in this way, #LiftAsWeRise. The impact of the mentorship programme often extends beyond the professional realm; also touching on personal growth, emotional support, and a profound sense of fulfillment for both mentors and mentees. The testimonials and experiences shared by participants illustrate the programme's transformative power. This #MentorshipMonday, it's hugs all around!

As we reflect on the past four years of our Women’s Month event, the purpose remains clear: to amplify women's voices and create real, lasting change. My journey as a young activist taught me that while passion ignites movement, education and persistence secure a seat at the table. This platform was born from that belief, but Women’s Month is not just about celebration—it’s a call to action. According to S&P’s Global Broad Market Index, women hold only 5% of CEO roles, and though progress is being made, it is not fast enough. As AI reshapes our world, now is the time for us to ensure that women are not just participants but leaders in this transformation. The insights we’ve gained—on AI’s potential to reduce bias and the need to support young women in STEM—are not mere discussions. They must become commitments to action. Gender equality is not a once-a-year conversation. It demands our daily, intentional efforts—whether in our homes, workplaces, or communities. Empowering women benefits us all, but it requires consistent focus and resolve. While Women’s Month has drawn to a close, I challenge each of us to keep the momentum alive. Let us turn reflection into action and build a future where women lead, innovate, and thrive daily.

As we come to the end of Women's Month, the Catalytic Strategy, in partnership with the JSE and WDB Investment Holdings invites you to join us at to launch the latest Gender Pay Gap report. In this webinar, our expert panel will dive deep into the report's findings, exploring critical insights and actionable strategies to bridge the gender pay gap in the workplace. We have been celebrating the accomplishments of women throughout August; and now we will unpack how to bridge the compensation gap. Register to join the session via LinkedIn Live using the link below: https://lnkd.in/dN78TdJR

The IWFSA and Fasset (Finance and Accounting Services Seta) partnered to deliver the IWFSA-FASSET Women's Leadership Programme (IFWLP). The IFWLP will develop a total of 1000 woman over a 3 year period; commencing from the 1st of October 2022. A key component of the Programme is the one-on-one mentoring by globally acclaimed and successful women leaders who are members of the IWFSA. This mentorship aspect of the Programme enables participants to access essential leadership skills, and gain the increased self-confidence needed to meet the challenges of a fast-changing world. Mentoring for the current participants of the IFWLP is in full swing; with over 200 individual mentorship sessions completed over the past month. This #MentorshipMonday, we'd like to take the opportunity to extend our heartfelt thanks to our IWFSA mentors for this service. You have inspired mentees by demonstrating resilience and excellence in your respective fields; and are a true embodiment of the call to #LiftAsWeRise. Mentorship is a powerful tool for personal and professional development, and we thank all the mentors for offering a supportive environment for individuals to learn, grow and succeed. Please share some of the lessons learnt from your mentors in the comments below!

We are excited to invite you to our upcoming webinar, "Eliminating the Gender Pay Gap Through Strengthening Legislation: The South African Context," taking place next Wednesday, the 28th of August from 10:00 am - 11:30 am CAT. This essential event hosted by the Catalytic Strategy will feature industry experts discussing the findings of our latest report, which explores the current state of the gender pay gap, its implications, and actionable strategies for organizations to promote equality in the workplace. Key Highlights of the Webinar: - In-depth analysis of the report findings - Expert panel discussion - Q&A session with our speakers - Strategies for fostering pay equity in your organisation Don’t miss out on this important discussion! Please register using the link below to secure your spot. https://lnkd.in/dHd3z9sa

With over 900 guests, 384 companies represented, and 41 inspiring speakers, the Duke Corporate Education Humanizing Leadership in an AI world event yesterday was truly remarkable. Held in partnership with IWFSA and African Women Chartered Accountants (AWCA), the day was filled with valuable insights, networking opportunities and knowledge production. In her closing keynote, former IWFSA president Ms. Irene Charnley noted how, although artificial intelligence is rapidly changing the world; it lacks the ability to truly lead. The inherent biases that are baked into AI will continue to be perpetuated; unless we actively continue to pour into the next generation of women leaders. "I didn't see the future; but I made it happen!" We thank everyone who joined yesterday and engaged with us across the seminars and during the course of the day. Let's continue having these powerful conversations. Please join us for our upcoming webinar "Eliminating the Gender Pay Gap through Strengthening Legislation: The South African Context," hosted on LinkedIn Live on the 28th of August 2024, 10-11:30am. You can sign up for the webinar on the link below: https://lnkd.in/dwvCYA65 #WomensMonthSA