20th Annual Standard Bank Top Women Conference Held

The 20th annual Standard Bank Top Women Conference, attended by key speakers from diverse industries, addressed critical topics of gender equality, economic development, and women's leadership, emphasizing action over words.

Sim Tshabalala, CEO of Standard Bank, set the tone with a keynote address emphasizing the underlying link between gender equality, sustainable development, and human rights. He emphasized the importance of women's economic success for African development and reaffirmed the bank's commitment to reaching a 50/50 gender balance in leadership posts.

Procter & Gamble Inc. Alicia Eggington of South Africa emphasized P&G's commitment to impacting women's projects, such as 'Always Keeping Girls in School,' which boosts school attendance by offering menstrual hygiene instruction and sanitary pads.

Dr. David Masondo, Deputy Minister of Finance, spoke on economic empowerment for women and government programs to encourage women entrepreneurs. The Public Investment Corporation (PIC) aggressively promotes gender diversity in its investment portfolio and positions of leadership.

The conference also looked at UN Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG 5) and its role in improving global gender parity. Dr. Achieng Ojwang and Simone Cooper were among the keynote speakers.

Lillian Barnard, President of Microsoft Africa, emphasized the revolutionary power of technology in fostering equity and women's active participation in governance to ensuring AI is inclusive and fair.

Naledzani Mosomane and Dr. Tamaryn Green Nxumalo spoke during a session on youth-led solutions, highlighting the critical role of youth in Africa's good progress.

Experts debated Generation Z's influence on Africa's socioeconomic landscape, emphasizing their emphasis on purpose-driven labor, flexible employment, and social justice activities.

Namibia's deputy minister of information and communication technologies, Hon. Emma Theofelus, stressed women's engagement in government and the significance of technology in women's liberation.

Velaphi Ratshefola, Managing Director of Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa, emphasized the significance of empowering all women and the critical role that men must play in this effort.

Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa presented a panel discussion that looked at the changing environment of women's empowerment in Africa, showcasing cross-sector collaboration and leadership development initiatives.

Nene Molefi discussed workplace harassment and toxic environments, providing practical answers to these issues.

Sandra Ruiter emphasized the GPF's dedication to empowering women and promoting inclusion in home building.

A panel discussion focused on the transformational measures spearheaded by the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) to promote cross-border trade among women.

A Fireside Chat was held to discuss the changing presence of women in African films, as well as the relevance of female empowerment in the film business.

Another panel explored the value of inclusiveness and creativity in technology and digital education, stressing the distinct perspectives that women contribute to technology and innovation.

The Standard Bank Top Women Conference, now in its 20th year, provides a forum for essential debates, practical solutions, and a common commitment to gender equality, youth development, and a revolutionary future for Africa. It serves as a beacon for a better, more inclusive continent.