A new year brings fresh energy – but 2026 demands more than enthusiasm. It requires intentional leadership and people-centred transformation.
Here’s what organisations must prioritise now.
- Align with sector targets – properly
The amended Employment Equity Act is fully in force, making sector targets a non-negotiable. Designated employers must update plans, strengthen reporting and justify gaps. The Department of Labour confirmed that non-alignment will affect compliance certificates, which are essential for any business engaging with the State - Prioritise women in leadership – meaningfully
Global research (WEF, 2025) shows that companies with strong female leadership outperform on resilience and innovation. Yet representation remains low in South Africa. In 2026, organisations need:- Real leadership pathways for women
- Sponsorship programmes
- Support for working mothers
- Environments where women don’t have to “adapt” to be accepted
As Janene Veldman, Founder & CEO of Lefa Le Phelang, says: “Women don’t just break barriers – they create space for others”
- Treat supplier development as economic growth, not compliance
The National Small Enterprise Observatory (2025) reported that diverse suppliers who secure stable contracts increase employment by 18–25% within two years.
Supporting women-owned and youth-owned businesses is one of the fastest ways to shift the economy. - Build culture – the real driver of transformation
You cannot tick-box your way into inclusion.2026 must be the year of:- Bias aeness
- Psychological safety
- Visible leadership accountability
- Clear consequences for discrimination
Culture is built by how leaders show up every day.
- Invest in youth – urgently
Youth unemployment sits at 57.8% (Stats SA, Q3 2025).
This is not only a national crisis – it threatens future skills pipelines. Internships, learnerships and real work exposure are no longer optional.
The year ahead
2026 can be a turning point – if organisations choose courage, accountability and people.<br>
The blueprint is simple:
Align. Empower. Include. Lead
And above all:
Put people – especially women and youth – at the centre of transformation.