The State of Women Address (SOWA), held in Sandton on 28 March, launched WomenCan iPledge, a transformative grassroots social movement designed to complement government and organisational efforts by redefining how individuals engage with the global agenda for women’s empowerment and gender equality.
Through the WomenCan iPledge movement, participants are encouraged to make personal commitments that directly advance women’s empowerment in practical, everyday ways. These include elevating women’s voices in meetings, leadership and decision-making spaces; mentoring and sponsoring women across professional and community networks; supporting women-owned businesses through intentional spending and partnerships; challenging bias and promoting inclusive practices in workplaces and institutions; and standing in active solidarity with women through advocacy and accountability.
Under the theme reimagining power structures, SOWA brought together thought leaders, experts, women’s networks, government representatives, corporates, policymakers, non-profit organisations and individuals focused on inclusive leadership, economic empowerment and the wellbeing of women.
During her keynote address, WomenCan founder Tumi Mthembu highlighted the importance of personal ownership in advancing equality.
“Equality is everyone’s responsibility and the WomenCan iPledge is about ownership. For too long, gender equality has lived in policies and promises. This movement shifts that power into the hands of individuals, especially women, to actively shape the spaces they are part of, whether in business, leadership or everyday life,” said Mthembu.
Built to move beyond awareness, the WomenCan iPledge encourages measurable action and accountability, recognising that collective commitments can drive meaningful progress for women everywhere.
Participants can take the pledge at www.womencan.co.za and will receive a personalised digital badge, making their commitment both visible and accountable.
