ENERGY
The role of Mercia Grimbeek, Chair of SAWEA
WOMEN in SA’s ENERGY space
Our national renewable energy sector recently called for the establishment of a Gender Diversity Charter. The response was sector-wide. BY SAWEA
“T
he charter is intended as a framework with which the industry measures itself and its commitments. But it is more personal than just a mechanism for impact, as this Charter is being pursued by many of our members as a legacy for our late CEO, Ntombifuthi Ntuli,” explained Mercia Grimbeek, Chair of SAWEA. Hosted by the sector’s Gender Diversity Working Group, this is a joint initiative between SAWEA and SAPVIA, the industry’s leading associations.
Mercia Grimbeek outlines the industry’s vision Why is there a need for a Gender Diversity Charter? Gender diversity has become very topical in recent times, and we have witnessed concerted efforts by many local companies in the sector to address the gender gap. While this is commendable and certainly encouraged, as an association we felt that assessing progress and impact was rather subjective and not easily measurable or such that it could be easily monitored. We have also witnessed the ravages of Covid-19 on our industry and our economy, and this has further negatively impacted on the work already done and future initiatives to progress gender diversity within the industry. As a Working Group we have heard so many examples in areas such as recruitment, executive management and equal pay, to name a few, where gender inequality is still rampant in our industry. We understand that this is a global challenge, but it is time to find our local voice and facilitate meaningful and impactful change.
The key objectives will look at issues of representation, inclusivity, flow of opportunity and support and accountability. We are looking forward to the DMRE’s work with the newly launched Energy Sector Gender Ministerial Advisory Council, which will inform the direction our charter takes. How does gender diversity fit into the energy transformation agenda? Gender diversity is a critical component of the agenda. The energy sector remains one of the least gender diverse sectors, especially at decisionmaking level. We are also mindful that the transition will require innovative solutions and business models. Closing the gender gap will bring with it the benefits of inclusive solutions as more women become decision-makers. How important is it that the board reflects gender equality? Robust discussions about industry challenges require deep insight, multiple angles to be considered and collective experiences. A SAWEA Board that is gender-balanced can harness these attributes to guide and advise the CEO. When governance is good, it benefits the CEO as well as the members of the association. Hence, it is very important to me that the SAWEA Board reflects gender equality. The Board represents the industry and is reflective of industry goals and aspirations. Good governance calls for diversity in the boardroom and in my opinion, this brings strength to the SAWEA Board. A gender-balanced board brings with it different perspectives and approaches to decision-making.
What are the key objectives for the implementation of the Charter? The aim is to launch the commitment statements on the anniversary of the Working Group, which coincides with International Women’s Day. This is after an extensive consultative process with leaders from our member organisations. Due to their involvement, there is a shared vision and ownership of the commitments to be made.
You were part of the Global Wind Energy Council women leadership programme two years ago. Did it make a difference to your career? The Women in Leadership programme was instrumental to my career development. I was exposed to a plethora of strong, confident women who shared knowledge and experiences. The programme allowed me to take my learnings and implement them in guiding an industry association and nurturing young talent emerging into the industry. Ultimately, it encouraged me to take up a place in industry and become an ambassador for the growth of the industry in our country.
It is time to find our local voice and facilitate meaningful and impactful change.
What advice do you have for other women in the industry? Be honest and vulnerable about where you are and acknowledge your part. Don’t see vulnerability as a weakness. Seek a mentor. There is always someone older and wiser that is willing to share their knowledge. Learn to step back and gain perspective when things get tough. Remember what your goal is and reframe how you want to achieve it. Believe in yourself.
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