Afrika Tikkun calls for transformative change in the workplace on Women’s Day
Women bring confidence grounded in experience and a vision for a more inclusive, equitable future, and qualities that are indispensable in shaping dynamic, forward-thinking organisations.
Afrika Tikkun, based in Hyde Park, is urging transformative change in the workplace, highlighting the urgent need for more women in senior positions.
The organisation emphasises that true progress requires leadership that is not only visionary but also deeply human.
Marian Claite, the chief operating officer of Afrika Tikkun, has seen firsthand how perseverance, compassion, and confidence are key drivers of success.
Reflecting on Women’s Day, Claite shared her thoughts on the qualities that define exceptional leadership.
“Perseverance, confidence, and compassion stand out as crucial attributes for transformative success,” she said.
ALSO READ: WATCH: Brescia works woolen miracles for Madiba Day
Claite emphasised that these qualities, which are inherently embodied by countless women, are not merely virtues. They are the very reasons why women deserve a seat in the boardroom.
“In March this year, the World Economic Forum reported that global data provided by LinkedIn covering 163 countries showed that women accounted for 41.9% of the workforce in 2023. However, the share of women in senior leadership positions, such as director, vice-president, or manager, is nearly 10 percentage points lower, at 32.2%,” Claite pointed out.
She noted that although the proportion of women hired into leadership positions had been steadily increasing by about 1% per year globally over the past eight years, this trend reversed in 2023, regressing to 2021 levels.
“Women face several barriers to attaining senior positions, including unconscious biases and systemic discrimination that affect hiring and promotions. Gender stereotypes, limited networking opportunities, and organisational cultures that lack support for diversity exacerbate these issues,” Claite explained.
ALSO READ: Mandela’s legacy applied towards sustainable development
She further elaborated that those disparities in education and professional development opportunities, coupled with underrepresentation in senior roles, contribute to a cycle that hinders women’s progress.
Claite stressed that addressing these barriers requires implementing inclusive policies, fostering supportive environments, and actively working to eliminate biases.
“Women navigate a world where challenges are not just expected but entrenched, whether it is breaking through glass ceilings, balancing professional and personal responsibilities, or overcoming systemic biases.”
She concluded by highlighting that women’s ability to persist and rise above hurdles with unyielding resolve is a testament to their strength.
“It is this perseverance that equips women to lead with resilience, driving organisations forward even in the face of uncertainty.”
Follow us on our Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok pages. Join our WhatsApp group for any story ideas you may have.
