DSD’S WOMEN’S FORUM EMPHASISES HEALTH AND WELL-BEING IN HONOUR OF WOMEN’S MONTH

By Pricilla Seamelando

• The Department of Social Development (DSD) is taking proactive steps to address the unique challenges women face in the workplace.
• An interactive Women’s Forum, held on 23 August 2024, focused on balancing personal well-being with professional obligations.
• The forum, organised by the Employee Health and Wellness division and the Gender and Women Empowerment Directorate, is part of DSD’s ongoing commitment to supporting women’s health and wellness.

In celebration of Women’s Month, the Department of Social Development (DSD) made a significant stride towards addressing the multifaceted challenges women encounter in the workplace. On 23 August 2024, the Employee Health and Wellness division, in collaboration with the Gender and Women Empowerment Directorate, hosted an impactful Women’s Forum for internal staff at the HSRC Building in Pretoria.

This annual forum draws inspiration from the historic Women’s Day march on 9 August 1956, when over 20,000 women courageously protested against the extension of Pass Laws. Their bravery not only challenged outdated stereotypes but also paved the way for future generations by showcasing women’s strength and political competence.

The forum focused on a crucial aspect of this legacy: balancing personal well-being with professional obligations. Women often juggle numerous roles—leader, mentor, friend, spouse, caregiver, and parent—while contending with gender biases, cultural expectations, and organisational structures. This balancing act can significantly impact their overall well-being.

In response to these challenges, the department launched the DSD Forum in 2022. This initiative was created to provide a dedicated space for discussing the unique pressures faced by women and to develop strategies for supporting their health and wellness. The forum’s launch was driven by a clear need for ongoing support and resources to ensure that women’s contributions and well-being are consistently prioritised.

The recent interactive session was a key component of this ongoing effort, emphasising the importance of prioritising women’s health and mental wellness. Discussions centred on how physical and mental health impact productivity and explored strategies to enhance well-being in the workplace.

Sr Nomthandazo Ndzhukula, DSD’s staff nurse, underscored the critical need for a continued focus on women’s health.

“Women’s health and mental wellness need to be prioritised in the workplace to ensure optimal performance. It is essential that this topic is continuously addressed to promote, support, and facilitate effective treatment plans,” said Ndzhukula. 

Through this forum, DSD reaffirms its commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by women, ensuring they receive the necessary support to thrive both personally and professionally.