Golf is open to all
Women and girls
GolfRSA helping drive change as 14 signatories added to Women in Golf Charter
18 Nov 25
6 mins
GolfRSA proudly hosted the Women in Golf Charter Business Breakfast on Wednesday 12 November at the renowned Copperleaf Golf Estate in Gauteng, under the inspiring theme “Driving Change: Women Shaping the Future of Golf”.
Attended by over 80 industry representatives, including golf clubs, academies, associations and organisations, it celebrated progress and reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to gender equality and inclusivity within the sport. The event formed part of GolfRSA’s ongoing efforts to support and promote the Women in Golf Charter, a global initiative lead by The R&A. The Charter calls on everyone involved in golf to play their part in developing a culture that values women’s involvement in every aspect of the sport. Its aim is powerful: to increase the number of women and girls playing and working in golf, while creating an environment where everyone feels welcome and empowered.Women in Golf charter challenges change
GolfRSA’s CEO, Grant Hepburn, opened the morning’s proceedings, welcomed guests and spoke passionately about the importance of collective action in transforming the landscape of South African golf.Watch: 12 new Women in Golf Charter signatories added at GolfRSA Business Breakfast
Hepburn said, “The Charter is not just a statement of intent. It’s about measurable action. It challenges golf clubs, unions, and leaders to create real change: more women on fairways, in boardrooms, and in leadership roles. For GolfRSA, it’s about ensuring that women and girls see golf as a sport and an industry where they belong, can grow and can lead.”
“Everyone has a role to play. Golf clubs can sign the Charter and commit to inclusivity goals. Schools and communities can introduce girls to golf. Businesses can back mentorship and leadership initiatives. And importantly, male allies are stepping up too - coaches, captains and administrators who understand that a more inclusive sport is a stronger sport.” The morning was filled with energy and purpose as Eden Thompson, R&A Development Manager – Africa, Susan Andrew, President of Womens Golf South Africa (WGSA), and Janyne Marais, Women in Golf Charter Ambassador for GolfRSA, delivered a powerful presentation that set the tone for the day. They shared an inspiring global outlook on how the Charter is transforming golf around the world and highlighting the progress being made to create a sport that truly welcomes everyone. Combined with an engaging update on South Africa’s journey so far, it celebrated the milestones already achieved and outlined the next steps to ensure the Charter’s values are adopted across every level of the sport. Throughout the morning, attendees had the opportunity to listen to panels as well as participate in engaging discussions and interactive activities designed to inspire collaboration and innovation. Former professional singer and award-winning speaker, facilitator and coach, Verity Price, concluded the session with an inspiring keynote speech.
“Everyone has a role to play. Golf clubs can sign the Charter and commit to inclusivity goals. Schools and communities can introduce girls to golf. Businesses can back mentorship and leadership initiatives. And importantly, male allies are stepping up too - coaches, captains and administrators who understand that a more inclusive sport is a stronger sport.” The morning was filled with energy and purpose as Eden Thompson, R&A Development Manager – Africa, Susan Andrew, President of Womens Golf South Africa (WGSA), and Janyne Marais, Women in Golf Charter Ambassador for GolfRSA, delivered a powerful presentation that set the tone for the day. They shared an inspiring global outlook on how the Charter is transforming golf around the world and highlighting the progress being made to create a sport that truly welcomes everyone. Combined with an engaging update on South Africa’s journey so far, it celebrated the milestones already achieved and outlined the next steps to ensure the Charter’s values are adopted across every level of the sport. Throughout the morning, attendees had the opportunity to listen to panels as well as participate in engaging discussions and interactive activities designed to inspire collaboration and innovation. Former professional singer and award-winning speaker, facilitator and coach, Verity Price, concluded the session with an inspiring keynote speech.
Some of the new Women in Golf Charter signatories.
The atmosphere during the event was one of genuine commitment and optimism that recognised significant change will come through continued effort, shared vision and collective responsibility.