A Thematic Review of Women’s Career Advancement and Leadership Development in the South African Context

Abstract

Abstract: Despite global commitments to gender equality, significant disparities persist in women’s career progression and leadership representation, particularly in the South African context. This study investigates the structural, institutional, and societal barriers that hinder women's advancement and evaluates the effectiveness of interventions aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 5 (Gender Equality). Using a rapid literature review methodology, the study analyzed 21 peer-reviewed articles from Sabinet and Web of Science, published post Covid (2020-2024). Through deductive thematic coding, five key themes emerged: ineffective or poorly implemented gender policies; systemic career advancement barriers including lack of sponsorship and work-life imbalance; persistent gendered norms in male-dominated sectors; strategic empowerment initiatives such as mentorship and leadership pipelines; and the influence of regional and sector-specific dynamics. The findings highlight that while some strategies like mentoring, inclusive policy design, and institutional support are effective, their implementation remains uneven and often superficial. This research contributes to policy and managerial discourse by offering evidence-based insights into which practices hold transformative potential and where further development is needed. It concludes with recommendations for longitudinal tracking, AI-human integrated reviews, and policy co-creation to foster equitable leadership pathways for women in Africa. Keywords: Gender Equality, Women in Leadership, Career Advancement, Sustainable Development Goal 5, Organizational Strategy