TransUnion Celebrates Finalist Recognition at the 2024 Gender Mainstreaming Awards

Image 3 GMA

TransUnion was honoured as a finalist across three prestigious categories at the 2024 Gender Mainstreaming Awards. The company’s finalist status reflects its continued commitment to advancing Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) within the workplace, and its dedication to building innovative workplaces and developing talent.

The Gender Mainstreaming Awards, hosted by Business Engage, celebrate the achievements of organisations that are committed to increasing the meaningful representation of women across business sectors in Africa. TransUnion was recognised as a finalist in the following categories:

• TransUnion GCC Africa — Investing in Young Women Award for its remarkable efforts in empowering the next generation of women through training, mentorship and career-building opportunities.
• TransUnion Africa — Women on Executive Committees in Multinationals Award, a recognition of the company's success in advancing women into leadership positions and ensuring meaningful representation across its executive teams.
• Shobana Maikoo, Head of TransUnion GCC Africa — Inclusive Leader Award, recognising her as a leader who embodies inclusivity and drives transformative change in the workplace.

“We are extremely proud of the recognitions, which reflect our ongoing efforts to build an inclusive and empowering work environment,” said Lee Naik, CEO and regional president at TransUnion Africa. “The acknowledgements reinforce our commitment to creating sustainable career opportunities for young women and ensuring women are represented at all levels of leadership.”

Advancing Opportunities for Young Women

Under Maikoo’s leadership, TransUnion’s GCC Africa has expanded its training and upskilling investments to R5.9 million in 2024, with 81% of beneficiaries being women. This approach provides young people with the skills and support they need to succeed in a highly competitive global marketplace.

Inclusive Leadership at the Forefront

TransUnion Africa’s executive committee is now more than 60% women, a significant leap from 2017 when it was at 40%. This progress highlights TransUnion Africa’s continued focus on promoting gender diversity and inclusion, creating opportunities for women to lead in multinational environments. Three of the company’s female leaders also serve on boards within TransUnion across the African region, further driving inclusivity.

Recognition for Transformative Leadership

Maikoo's leadership has been instrumental in expanding the GCC Africa from 50 employees in 2021 to over 950 employees in 2024, 70% of whom are women. Her leadership has led to a workplace where inclusivity is more than a goal, it’s part of the company’s DNA. With 40% of training programme graduates securing permanent employment in the TransUnion GCC Africa, of which 4% are differently-abled, the organisation remains an excellent example of equal opportunity and inclusivity.

A Bright Future for Inclusive Workplaces

“We believe in cultivating a workplace where everyone can thrive, and these recognitions are a testament to our commitment,” said Maikoo. “Inclusion isn’t just about having policies in place, it’s about creating an environment where diverse voices are heard, valued and empowered.”

TransUnion Africa and the GCC Africa continue to set the standard for gender inclusivity and leadership in South Africa and beyond, reinforcing the company’s position as an employer of choice and a catalyst for positive social change.