Justen Smith | March 11, 2025
Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB) are crucial to South Africa's progress. Among the global challenges, our young democracy must support these principles to promote true equality, social cohesion and economic transformation.
In a world tackling political change and ideological tensions, diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (Deib) has become more than just a corporate buzzword – they are essential pillars to building a society that is resilient, just and progressive. It is important to consider why Deib maintains the need, especially in South Africa, as the global landscape changes due to the rollback of the DEI initiative in the US under President Trump. Still navigating the legacy of apartheid, our young democracy requires sustainable and deliberate efforts to promote inclusion in both the workplace and society as a whole.
South Africa: Young Democracy in Needs Dave
South Africa is a country that is still healed from the wounds of apartheid. Despite major advances in social justice, economic inequality has been ramping up, and access to opportunities is largely determined by race, gender and disability circumstances. Dave is not just a corporate responsibility here – it's a national order.
1. South African Constitution: Centrifugation for Equality
At the heart of South Africa's democracy is our constitution, widely regarded as one of the most progressive in the world. The Constitution embarks equal protections under the law of all individuals, regardless of race, gender, disability, or background. It recognizes the diversity of our people and embraces multiple languages, cultures and traditions while protecting the rights of women, the LGBTQI+ community and the disabled.
The Constitution also provides a more just and inclusive social framework, ensuring that Dave's principles are legally mandatory, rather than merely ambitious. Supporting these fundamental values ​​is essential to combating discrimination and fostering a truly inclusive society.
2. Addressing economic inequality
South Africa remains one of the most unequal societies in the world. According to the World Bank, the top 10% of incomes take back more than 65% of their total income, while the bottom 50% struggle to survive with just 5%. Without intentional Deib's policy, the workplace continues to reflect these broader social disparities, limiting the economic mobility of historically disadvantaged groups.
3. Comprehensive workplace as a tool for conversion
Given our past, many South Africans are still excluded in the workplace based on race, gender and disability. Employment equity laws exist, but are often seen as compliance exercises rather than meaningful commitment to promote an inclusive environment. True deib means moving beyond an inflated box. It is about creating a workplace where all employees value their contribution, listen and feel empowered.
4. The importance of inclusion of disorders
One of the most overlooked aspects of Deib in South Africa is the inclusion of obstacles. People with disabilities face barriers to education, employment and social participation. Despite legislative frameworks like the Employment Equity Act, unemployment rates for people with disabilities remain disproportionate. Companies must do more than meet quotas. They need to invest in real accessibility, workplace accommodation and career development opportunities.
5. Strengthening social cohesion
The history of South Africa's separation leaves a deep scar. Democracy has brought freedom, but true social cohesion remains an ongoing work. The Deib initiative helps bridge by promoting mutual understanding and respect across a variety of backgrounds. A society that values ​​diversity and ensures equity is more stable, resilient and ready for sustainable growth.
Why is attribution the key to long-term change?
Many DEI efforts focus on representation and fairness, but often miss out on final and important works. Having a diverse team is not enough if individuals are included and feel unappreciated. Workplaces that promote affiliation see higher engagement, innovation and productivity. More importantly, the society in which everyone feels they belong is a society that can truly heal from the past and build a more just future.
Progress: What can companies and leaders do?
Commit to meaningful change – Move beyond compliance and embed Dave in your corporate culture.
Invest in skill development – Supports community marginalised initiatives, especially in education and employment.
Inclusion of champion disorders – Make accessibility a priority, both physically and culturally.
Create a safe space for dialogue – Encourage discussions about diversity and bias to promote understanding.
Measure progress – Explain leadership by tracking and reporting on Deib's efforts.
When the global DEI movement is under attack, South Africa must strengthen its commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. Our country's progress depends on it.
Our past challenges should serve as a reminder that inequality will last without intentional inclusion and true democracy remains out of reach. If we are to build a society where everyone has a fair shot of success, Dave must remain a priority not only in the boardroom but across all aspects of life.
“Disclaimer – the views and opinions expressed in this article are the views of the author and are not necessarily those of the Bee Room.”
