IWFSA Transformation initiative

Catalytic Strategy

The Catalytic Strategy, established in 2019, by the International Women’s Forum South Africa (IWFSA) and the WDB Investment Holdings (WDBIH) (“Joint Partners”) is a transformative initiative, evidence -based advocacy mechanism for Women Economic Justice in South Africa. The Catalytic Strategy aims to identify effective mechanisms for facilitating access to research and leveraging this information to shape South African policy, influence debate and to drive industry and policy change on the critical issues of Women Economic Justice, ultimately inclusive economic growth.

Partnership

With the generous support of the Anglo-American South Africa, the project endeavours to evaluate the effectiveness of existing legislation in addressing the gender pay gap, advocate for Gender Specific Legislation and recognise companies and individuals who are committed to women advancement and empowerment.

Catalytics Strategy Committee

collaboration and shared vision

Our Partners in Purpose

Achievements

The Awards Ceremony honoured companies that have made a substantial impact in promoting economic justice for women and have taken concrete steps to address the persistent gender disparities and barriers faced by women in the economy. The Award ceremony provided a platform for awardees to be recognized for their contributions, to share their experiences, insights, and best practices, and for attendees to network and collaborate towards a shared goal of promoting women’s economic empowerment. It also provided a forum for discussing the challenges and opportunities in promoting women’s economic justice and for exploring ways to collaborate and drive progress.

2023 WEJ Winners: From Left to right Ms. Taelo Mojapelo CEO of BPSA, Mrs. Bathobile Sowazi DBSA Board member, Ms. Natasha Davies Motheo Board Member and Ms. Rebecca Molongoana: HR Director Soul City Institute

The recipients of the 2023 Awards were as follows:

  • Sustainable Impact Leadership Award category: BPSA
    This award recognizes companies for their commitment to cultivating female leadership and
    promoting gender equity, demonstrated through inclusive workplace practices and policies
    empowering women to ascend to leadership roles.”
  • Industry Impact Leadership Award category: Motheo Construction
    This award celebrates companies that have selflessly paved the way for others, becoming
    beacons of inspiration and architects of a more inclusive economic landscape.
  • Innovative Partnership Excellence Award: Development Bank of South Africa
    (DBSA)
    This award emphasizes the pivotal role of collaborative approaches in achieving sustainable
    and transformative development outcomes. It recognizes companies that, through their
    influence, have cultivated innovative and highly effective collaborations and partnerships
    across the public and private sectors, NGOs, and local communities.
  • Emerging Visionary Award: Soul City Institute
    This award recognizes companies that defy conventional norms and are committed to
    transformative change within their organizational structures and in broader societal contexts.
    These visionary entities cultivate innovative, inclusive, and adaptable workplaces.

Gender Pay Gap Research Report

Launch of the Gender Pay Gap Report On 28 August 2024, the Gender Pay Gap Report was launched, providing an invaluable resource for tackling gender-based economic inequalities in South Africa. Impact: This report offers actionable insights to guide policymakers, businesses, and advocates in addressing inequalities and fostering an equitable labour market. It lays the foundation for evidence-based advocacy and practical solutions to drive economic justice.

Download Gender Pay Gap Report Copy