Today's world is finally recognising the role of women in business, and which has become more crucial than ever in driving economic and social progress. Women are often the backbone of their communities, yet despite their significant contributions, women continue to face greater financial challenges.
“The digital world presents a transformative opportunity for women to overcome this challenge and thrive in the business landscape. Digitalisation can create a more inclusive environment, enabling women to build and scale businesses more easily, thereby contributing to economic growth whilst reaching their own financial goals”, says Hayley Hillary, Nerdware Chief Growth Officer.
“We embrace a women first approach in our business, and we recognize the immense potential of digital tools and platforms in empowering women in the business world. By offering innovative and tailored digital marketing solutions, we aim to break down the barriers to entry and provide women with the resources they need to succeed”, Hayley Hillary adds.
Empowering Women through Digital Innovation
Digitalisation offers women entrepreneurs in particular, a range of benefits, from lower start-up costs to the ability to reach global markets. The flexibility of digital platforms also allows women to balance their business endeavours with family responsibilities.
Closing the Digital Gender Gap
Despite the advantages of digitalisation, challenges remain. Women are less likely to have internet access or own mobile devices compared to men. In South Africa, only about half of women have internet access, and smartphone penetration among women is significantly lower compared to men. This digital divide limits the ability of women to fully participate in the digital economy.
To truly unlock the potential of women, it is essential to close these gaps. This requires concerted efforts from businesses to support women in gaining access to the digital tools and resources they need. Empowering women digitally not only enhances their economic standing but also uplifts entire communities, contributing to the overall economic upliftment of South Africans.
“Our business, which is 100% female owned, is committed to playing our part in this mission. By providing digital solutions tailored to the unique needs of women-owned businesses, we aim to foster a more inclusive and equitable business environment. Through our work, we strive to ensure that no woman is left behind in South Africa’s digital transformation journey”, continues Hillary
Here are just a few examples of digital businesses that women can start to uplift themselves and gain financial independence. The list is really endless.
- E-Commerce Stores: Local online platforms provide ready made solutions, allowing women to sell unique products. These ready-made solutions provide a hassle-free way to reach clients across the country and beyond.
- Online Language or Subject Tutoring: Women with expertise in languages, mathematics, science, or any other academic subject can offer online tutoring services. This can be done through dedicated platforms or by setting up personal websites to reach students globally.
- Content Creation: Women with skills in writing, graphic design, video editing, or social media management can offer freelance services on freelance platforms, which allows them to work remotely and on flexible schedules.
- Remote Administrative Assistance: Women can offer virtual assistance services to businesses and entrepreneurs, handling tasks like scheduling, email management, customer service, and other administrative duties, all from the comfort of their homes.
- Online Resale Platforms: Starting a marketplace for selling second-hand items such as books, clothing, or electronics. This can be done through social media groups or dedicated websites. Just look at Yaga, a South African online marketplace for second-hand clothing, for example. Since the launch of their platform in 2020, they have reportedly generated in excess of R500 million. All the while creating a more environmentally friendly circular fashion economy.
- Homemade Food Delivery: Those with a talent for cooking or baking can create an online platform to sell homemade food locally, catering to busy professionals and families who appreciate home-cooked meals.
- Virtual Fitness Classes and Coaching: Women can offer virtual fitness classes, yoga sessions, or personalised workout plans through their own websites or social media platforms, helping clients maintain their health from anywhere.
- Online Counseling and Coaching: Women can provide one-on-one or group sessions to support mental well-being, help others set life goals, and achieve personal growth. This can be done via video calls, online courses, or dedicated coaching platforms.
- Curated Subscription Box Services: Women can start subscription box services that deliver curated products like beauty samples, eco-friendly items, or healthy snacks to subscribers regularly, creating a steady stream of income.
These digital business ideas not only help women gain financial independence but also enable them to create a balance between work and family life. By leveraging digital platforms, women can reach a global audience, scale their businesses, and contribute to the overall economic upliftment of their communities.
A Call to Action
The future of South Africa’s economy is closely tied to inclusivity and in the success of women. As we continue to navigate the digital age, it is imperative that we support and empower women to fully participate in the digital economy.
Hillary concludes, “We believe that digitalisation is not just a tool for business success but a catalyst for societal change, where we are equipped to support these journeys by providing the essential tools and expertise businesses need to thrive in the online space, from building customised websites and apps to integrating payments, and more”.
Together, let’s work towards a future where women entrepreneurs are at the forefront of economic growth, driving innovation, and creating a lasting impact in their communities.