Amplifying Women ' s Voices : The Role of Male Allies in Leadership By Sanele Mlambo , Head of Marketing - Empact Group
Amplifying Women ' s Voices : The Role of Male Allies in Leadership By Sanele Mlambo , Head of Marketing - Empact Group
As we celebrate Women ’ s Month in South Africa , this is a time to reflect on the pivotal role male allies can play in amplifying women ’ s voices in the workplace , particularly in leadership roles . With a workforce comprising 70 % women , Empact Group stands as a testament to the power of female voices in the workplace . However , true gender parity requires the active participation and support of male colleagues and leaders in every organisation for it to be truly effective . Sanele Mlambo , Head of Marketing for Empact Group , shares insights on the pivotal role men play in creating an even playing field in the workplace . Women often face systemic barriers that inhibit their professional growth and prevent them from reaching leadership positions . These barriers can manifest as gender bias , unequal pay , and limited access to mentorship and sponsorship . You will not be hard pressed to find a woman who has firsthand experience of her voice being marginalised in the workplace , or having her contributions undervalued , leaving her potential untapped . Overcoming these challenges requires a concerted effort in resetting company cultures and practice ; particularly from male allies in leadership roles who play a crucial role in creating an inclusive and supportive workplace culture . Whilst there have been significant strides in implementing this shift , there is still work to be done and it is within this context that male allies can adopt essential strategies and actions to amplify women ’ s voices and drive gender diversity in leadership roles .
Key Strategies for Male Allies Listening and Valuing Women ' s Perspectives : Start by genuinely listening to female colleagues and valuing their input . Create spaces where women feel safe voicing their opinions and concerns ; then ask questions to gain meaningful insights which can lead to real change .
Public Support and Recognition : Thunder stealing is alive and well unfortunately . Publicly recognise the contributions of female colleagues in meetings , through internal communications , or on social media . When male leaders highlight the achievements of women , it not only boosts individual morale but also sets a standard for others to follow . Creating Opportunities for Visibility : Men in leadership positions can use their influence to provide women with platforms to showcase their skills and expertise . This might include recommending women for high-visibility projects , inviting them to speak at conferences , or nominating them for awards . These actions can significantly enhance the professional profiles of female employees , paving the way for their advancement .