The JSE is ringing the bell for gender equality
Phuthi Mahanyele-Dabengwa highlights the transformative potential of closing the gender gap, which could boost the global economy by $7t.
The Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) participated in the annual Ring the Bell for Gender Equality campaign on March 7, joining global stock exchanges to support gender equality and promote inclusive economic growth.
This symbolic bell-ringing event, led by the World Federation of Exchanges (WFE) and other key organisations, like the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the Sustainable Stock Exchanges (SSE) Initiative, UN Global Compact, and UN Women, highlights the crucial role financial markets play in advancing gender equality.
This year’s campaign aligns with the 2025 International Women’s Day theme: For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment, which also marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.
Also read: Ring the bell for gender equality at Sandton
It emphasises the need for bold actions to dismantle systemic barriers and accelerate gender parity.
Vuyo Lee, director of marketing and corporate affairs at the JSE, said: “At the JSE, we believe that true empowerment stems from equal access to education, investment opportunities, leadership positions, and financial resources.”
She further emphasised that the theme challenges stakeholders to remove systemic barriers and amplify the voices of women and girls, integrating gender equality into both financial markets and society.
Also read: JSE Kicks Off Registrations for the Exciting Annual Investment Challenge
The JSE exemplifies leadership in gender inclusion, with women constituting 55% of its board and 78% of its executive committee.
Its listing requirements mandate that all listed companies implement gender diversity policies at the board level and report progress.
Phuthi Mahanyele-Dabengwa, board member of UN Global Compact and CEO of Naspers South Africa, delivered a speech at the event, stressing the importance of achieving gender equality by 2030, as outlined by the UN’s 5th sustainable development goal.
Read more: Women’s Dialogue on Gender Parity and Gender-based Political Violence
She highlighted that closing the gender gap could potentially add $7t to the global economy. “Events such as the annual Ring the Bell for Gender Equality are important to ensure that every woman and girl is empowered with the tools and knowledge to ensure access to equal opportunities to advance in their careers and lives.”
Follow us on our Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok pages. Join our WhatsApp group for any story ideas you may have.
