The role of peer educators in addressing diversity in the workplace: A qualitative study in South African companies

Abstract

Background: The study explored the involvement of peer educators in diversity issues in four workplaces which are part of the Swedish Workplace HIV and AIDS Programme in Gauteng, South Africa (SWHAP).

Objective: To explore and describe the role of peer educators in dealing with diversity issues in the workplace.

Methods: The study used a qualitative research approach, with an exploratory and descriptive research design. Convenience sampling, as a type of non-probability sampling, was used to identify four companies which are part of the Swedish Workplace HIV/AIDS Programme in Gauteng, South Africa. Data was collected by means of focus group discussions. The data was analysed according to the themes which emerged.

Results: The results of the study revealed that although peer educators are to a limited extent involved in diversity issues in the workplace, they needed training to equip them for this role.

Conclusion: The study concluded that there are diversity issues to be managed in the workplaces involved, and the peer educators are prepared to be involved in managing these issues.

Keywords:

• Diversity
• workplace wellness
• employee health and wellness
• peer educator

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.