News and Articles

When it comes to gender equality, transformation can seem a pipe dream, with the World Economic Forum warning the overall gender gap will take 131 years to close at the current rate of progress. Gendered social norms are still deeply ingrained and perpetuate harmful behaviours and barriers to women and girls realising their full potential, […]

Despite its economic challenges, Bangladesh has long been a social innovator in areas like microfinance, and now local entrepreneurs are competing to service the country’s large informal workforce. This is good news for the many women who take on flexible work due to care and other responsibilities, says Sweef Capital Director Phuong Pham. Good leaders […]

Part-time and temporary work models and can be advantageous if they enable a better work-life balance, but the reality is that such work models often manifest in lower wages, a lack of social protection systems, fewer training opportunities and poorer career prospects. It’s a scenario women know all too well, according to Sweef Capital Director […]

Women workers were hardest-hit by the Covid-19 pandemic, often losing their livelihoods and underlining the tenuous nature of employment models that are poorly paid, lower-grade and lacking career prospects That must change if organisations and economies are to realise the value of this under-appreciated talent pool, according to Sweef Capital Managing Director Jennifer Buckley, especially […]

Smart leaders take a strategic approach to hiring and retaining talented women, aware of the positive impact this has on the brand and the business. There are practical and financial implications if they don’t, says Sweef Capital Vice President, Samantha Tedjosugondo, including costly employee turnover. Indonesian company Paragon Corp offers an inspiring success story, showcasing […]

A growing evidence base shows the positive financial, social and environmental benefits that flow from empowering women. While some progress has been made, addressing gender barriers requires governments and businesses to share insights and work together to ensure their policies are aligned and effective, argues Sweef Capital Director Rowena Reyes. Jane Sloane, Senior Director for […]