In celebration of International Women's Day, we organised several activities throughout the month of March. Led by the Absa Women Forum, these initiatives underscored our ongoing commitment to fostering the well-being and empowerment of our female workforce.
One of the key highlights was an insightful talk on menopause by Dr. Zeenat Aumeerally, healthcare practitioner specialising as an Obstetrician and Gynaecologist. The forum emphasised how knowledge is crucial for empowerment and highlighted that understanding this natural phase of life is essential for both women and men. By fostering empathy and awareness, all individuals can actively contribute to the well-being of the women in their lives.
We also collaborated with Link to Life to facilitate specialised breast and cervical health screening services for our female colleagues. These screenings were instrumental in the early detection and prevention of various health conditions such as cancer, empowering women to prioritise their well-being and adopt proactive measures towards a healthier lifestyle. The response to this initiative has been exceptional, with over 200 registrations received. “As women, we know that risks exist, but often we don't have the time to address them. This great initiative makes it easier for us to take a proactive approach towards our health and demonstrates Absa’s genuine care for our well-being,” says Annabelle Mercier from the Corporate and Investment Banking Team.
Reflecting on the mission of the Absa Women Forum, Nesha Rosunally, People Risk Officer and Recognition Lead and member of the forum stated, "Launched in 2021, our forum focuses on three areas: growth, health and wellness and is dedicated to fostering a supportive environment and creating a culture of understanding and support.”
Yogen Soobarah, Head of Human Capital at Absa Mauritius, expressed the bank's commitment to supporting women's empowerment and well-being, stating, "For us, every story matters and through these initiatives, we aim to create an inclusive environment where women feel valued, supported, and empowered to prioritise their health and wellness. It's essential to us that all 462 of our female colleagues know they are cared for and supported in their journey towards better health. We look forward to doing more of these activities in the future."
