What exactly is standing in the way of your career, and what can you do to change it? If you believe that it’s time for a change, and most importantly for women to take their places at the top of the boardroom table, Steyn City is proud to announce the unveiling of the 7% Tribe foundation on Friday, August 31.
The grounding initiative was established out of sheer concern, based on a recent startling gender disparity report by the Bain & Company which states that “only 7% of executive directorships in South Africa are held by women – despite the fact that women make up 50% of the working age population,” organisers said in a statement. It is headed by some of the most dynamic women in South Africa to help spark a dialogue that leads to change. Among them is Tammy Menton, Group Head of Marketing and Events at Steyn City, who co-founded the movement with Janez Vermeiren and Yusuf Stevens of Cheeky Media.
“We want to find out which companies are trying to make a difference; what works and what doesn’t; and how we can help put a final end to gender discrimination”, said Menton.
During the gala dinner, a panel of speakers will interrogate a number of issues standing in the way of young girls’ success – whether that be an upbringing that didn’t prepare them for the corporate world, relatives who cut off emotional support because they don’t understand career choices or a lack of networking skills. Since the announcement was made in August, organisers have been inundated with calls of support from some of the country’s female change-makers in South Africa, among them Tabea Kabinde (MD of We Find Talent), Faith Khanyile (CEO of WDB Investment Holding) and renowned SA physician and scientist Dr Glenda Gray (Order of Mapungubwe 2013 recipient & Time’s List 2017 Most Influential People in the World honorary) – who have agreed to avail themselves as part of a series of events – from speed dating mentor sessions to career development workshops – which will be held to help find answers to these questions and implement real solutions. Organisers are in the process of confirming a full list of panelists, who will form part of a thought-provoking discussion regarding female empowerment in South Africa.
Call to action
Members of corporate South Africa are invited to make their contribution in creating an environment more conducive to women’s advancement, to help bring to fruition the Basic Conditions of Employment Act’s vision of a more equitable workplace. To find out more about how to join this ground-breaking movement, visit https://sevenpercenttribe.com/
