Key highlights
● Absa Mauritius hosted a high-impact Pan-African International Women’s Day Event
under the theme “From Awareness to Action: Accelerating Gender Equality in the Workplace.”
● Absa Mauritius reaffirms its commitment to gender inclusion, with over 30% female representation on its Board and 59% of its workforce comprising talented women.
In celebration of International Women’s Day, Absa Bank (Mauritius) Limited, in partnership with Absa Group Corporate and Investment Banking, reaffirmed its commitment to gender inclusion by hosting a Pan-African event, under the theme: “From Awareness to Action: Accelerating Gender Equality in the Workplace.”
Held at Royal Green Wellness Resort on Thursday 27 March 2025, the event brought together senior executive from Absa Group Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB) and Absa Mauritius, Dr. the Honorable Jyoti Jeetun, Minister of Financial Services and Economic Planning, as well as Absa colleagues, to drive meaningful conversations on fostering gender equality in the financial sector.
As part of the event, a panel discussion was held on the theme “Accelerate Action: Advancing Gender Equality and Empowering Women in the Financial Services Industry.” The panel featured industry leaders, including Zanele Mlangeni, Leader in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB) and Colleague Wellbeing at Absa Group Corporate & Investment Banking; Hélène Echevin, Chief Executive Officer at C-Care Group; and Aruna Radhakeesoon, Independent Non-Executive Director at Absa Mauritius. The discussion explored actionable strategies to break systemic barriers, the critical role of leadership and male allies, and how inclusive workplace cultures drive both business success and societal progress.
As a catalyst for progress, Absa Mauritius continues to champion gender inclusion through dedicated programmes such as the Absa Women Forward initiative and its internal Bank on Women (BOW) network, which empower women leaders and professionals to thrive in the financial industry
Ravin Dajee, Managing Director of Absa Mauritius Limited stated:
“It was a privilege to host this important conversation here in Mauritius, with the event broadcast across all Absa Group countries—reinforcing our collective commitment to gender equality at a Pan-African level.
Diversity and inclusion are at the heart of our operations, as we firmly believe that our success and growth are fueled by the empowerment of our female colleagues. Our commitment is evident in our leadership and workforce, where over 30% of our Board and 59% of our talented team are women.
We extend this dedication beyond our organization through the Absa Women Forward program, designed to equip women entrepreneurs with the skills and support they need to thrive and lead in their communities. By investing in their potential, we are not only fostering a more inclusive business environment but also driving meaningful economic growth.”
Reflecting on the significance of gender equality from a broader perspective, Zanele Mlangeni, Leader in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB) and Colleague Wellbeing at Absa Group Corporate & Investment Banking, highlighted:
“True progress in gender equality requires not only awareness but concrete action. Through partnerships, mentorship, and inclusive leadership, we aim to create an ecosystem where women can excel and contribute meaningfully to business and society."
Absa Mauritius remains resolute in its commitment to gender inclusion, driving meaningful change through targeted initiatives, strategic partnerships, and exemplary leadership. By fostering an inclusive environment, Absa Mauritius not only empowers its workforce, but also sets a benchmark for the financial industry, paving the way for a more equitable future.
