A focus on women in the workplace has to go beyond the month of August - it has to be a daily focus on the real challenges facing women in our organisation. 

Our duty as leaders is to create an environment at Lesaka where women will not only succeed but will thrive because:

• Their voice is heard, loud and clear;
• Their work environment takes into account their family commitments;
• We taking action when there are incidents of sexual harassment, or any abuse of positions by those in leadership positions;
• There are clear career opportunities with visible progress and promotions into senior roles;
• Women are paid in a fair, transparent and equitable manner and are not prejudiced because of their gender;
• We are supportive when women are going through personal difficulties such as divorce, post-natal depression, abusive relationships or are balancing their work, home and studies; and
• Young women can see many role models in key positions at Lesaka.

Although I’m very proud of the progress we have made as Lesaka over the last 3 years, we are still far behind from where we need to be. We have to tackle women empowerment with the speed and urgency it deserves, beyond mere lip service and public relation exercises.

Let us celebrate Women’s Month by committing ourselves to promoting a diverse workplace, as we make Lesaka the best place to work for everyone