The LGBTQIA+ communitycontributes billions to SA’s economy with 4/10 in manager roles – study

The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex and Asexual (LGBTQIA+) community in South Africa (SA) contributes billions annually to the local economy.

This is according to the latest research conducted by the Other Foundation, which said the LGBTQIA+ contributed at least R250 billion in the past financial year.

However, the accuracy of the study has been questioned by IOL Opinion writer Azanian Ronin, who questioned how the LGBTQIA+ community was possibly worth more than the coal industry at R190 billion, the export values of the African Growth and Opportunities Act at R220 billion and the spending on SA’s social welfare grants, which benefit 19 million people, at R232 billion annually. 

The study is based on a quantitative survey managed and distributed online by Ipsos South Africa with the support of the Other Foundation in 2023.

The research aimed at highlighting the substantial role the LGBTQIA+ community plays as consumers, employees and entrepreneurs.

The study found that 90% of LGBTQIA+ respondents are actively engaged in income-earning activities, with 75% employed either part-time or full-time, showing strong workforce participation despite challenges.

In 2017, the foundation’s Pink Rand report estimated the economic contribution of LGBTQIA+ people in South Africa to be somewhere in the range of R53 billion to R204 billion.

In October, the country commemorated Pride Month, which seeks to celebrate, remember and reflect on how far the LGBTQIA+ community of South Africa has come. The first Pride March in SA and Africa, was held in October 1990 in Johannesburg.

South Africa is regarded as the most LGBTQIA+ friendly country on the continent.

Strong entrepreneurial spirit

In the new report, the researchers said that 15% of LGBTQIA+ respondents were active entrepreneurs, with over half leading businesses that have been operational for more than five years.

“Many LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs are thriving, particularly in industries like media, healthcare and wellness and professional services,” the foundation said.

The research also added that a significant portion of LGBTQIA+ professionals hold leadership roles.

It found that 44% of LGBTQIA+ people occupy managerial positions and 36% oversee teams of five or more. This illustrated that they have influence and leadership in the workplace.

Resilience

The study said that despite facing systemic barriers, many LGBTQIA+ individuals are financially resilient, with 29% of respondents reporting savings of more than R100 000, indicating a strong capacity for financial management and investment.

LGBTQIA+ individuals are also socially conscious consumers, the research found and noted that 61% are more likely to purchase from businesses that demonstrate a commitment to LGBTQIA+ inclusion.

This makes them a valuable market segment for inclusive brands, the researchers said.

Lastly, the study noted that 58% of the LGBTQIA+ respondents believed in further education and skills development.

The community prioritise their careers and look out for opportunities that will enhance their personal growth and economic advancement. – IOL Business