08/08/2025
August 9th: South African Women’s Day
But… are we truly honouring the women of 1956, or just offering cupcakes and balloons?
Tomorrow, the 9th of August, this day back in 1956, over 20,000 women of all races and backgrounds marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria to protest against the apartheid government's pass laws. With babies on their backs and courage in their hearts, they stood in defiance of oppression and demanded dignity, equality, and freedom.
They didn’t march for applause.
They didn’t march for a day on the calendar.
They marched for change.
Fast forward nearly 70 years, and we have to ask: Are we doing enough to honour their legacy? Because real empowerment doesn't come from once-off breakfasts, hashtags, or pink-themed cupcakes. It comes from action. Policy. Representation. Fair pay. Safe workplaces.
So before we decorate the office and send out generic messages of “celebration”… Let’s ask:
What does our leadership pipeline look like?
Are we creating space for women to lead, speak, and shape strategy?
Do we call out everyday bias and inequality, or quietly walk past it?
Let this Women’s Day be more than a moment. Let it be a mirror.
To the courageous women of 1956, we see you. We thank you.
May we carry your fire not just on August 9th, but every single day.
We’d love to hear your thoughts. Let’s discuss, debate, and reflect, what does meaningful change look like where you work, live, and lead?