“Scarcity thinking” stands in the way of women

There should be a place for all women to shine and take their place in society without giving in to the pressure of having to compete with each other.

As August is dedicated to women, transgender women are spotlighting their ongoing challenges and their struggle for respect and inclusion.

A transgender woman is someone who currently lives and identifies as a woman, but was born a man.

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Transgender woman Siya Hlongwa began her journey to gender transition in 2009 when she came out as transgender and began to affirm her female gender expression.

Unfortunately, her move was not well received in the corporate world, she said.

Despite holding a bachelor’s degree in architecture and working as a senior architectural technologist, she faced harassment, discrimination, and termination because of her gender identity.

Despite all these challenges, Hlongwa says the “scarcity mentality” that suggests there is not enough room for everyone to shine is hampering the progress of women’s rights in South Africa.

By supporting each other, we can create a more inclusive society and work towards social justice and development both in South Africa and beyond.

“In reality, all people can reach their full potential without having to compete for space,” she said.

Despite the annual celebrations that focus on women, many women – particularly victims and survivors of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) – continue to face injustice, high unemployment and poverty, all of which are reflections of broader societal inequalities.

She said she had been the victim of more than four crimes in the past two years, which is why she had sought protection at local police stations in vain, despite international intervention.

This failure to deliver justice is not just a problem for trans women or the LGBTQIA+ community, but also for heterosexual women who face similar harmful attacks and discrimination in the justice system. For me, Women’s Day is about recognizing and empowering women in our society, celebrating their contributions while they are still with us, and giving them the space to experience recognition and acceptance.

“I welcome this opportunity to share my experiences, particularly in my role as an advocate for change, with the aim of breaking down stereotypes and promoting greater awareness, diversity and inclusion,” she said.

Hlongwa said South Africa had made significant progress in recognizing the existence of intersex and transgender people.

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However, more focused implementation of policies, representation and cultural practices is still needed to fully empower and include trans and intersex communities in Women’s Month celebrations.

“It is vital that these events include the diversity of women and ensure that all are celebrated equally,” she added.