Climate shocks, new health technologies like GLP-1 drugs, evolving sports labour markets and political instability are redefining the social wage in South Africa. This article explores why employment relations must move beyond wages to include climate resilience, health, ethics, skills transitions and social compacts.

As AI adoption accelerates amid economic austerity, South African employers face rising wage pressure, skills bifurcation and new bargaining demands. This article examines how AI, unemployment and inequality are converging to reshape employment relations, and outlines a “new workplace deal” built on consultation, reskilling, fair transitions, and shared productivity gains.

Professional growth is no longer linear. In today’s fast-changing workplace, experience must merge with innovation. Younger colleagues bring fresh perspectives, digital fluency, and adaptability, while seasoned professionals offer wisdom, context, and stability. By embracing cross-generational learning, reverse mentoring, and continuous growth, leaders can turn uncertainty into opportunity. This Women’s Day, let’s redefine expertise as humility, openness, and collaboration ac