As we celebrate Women’s Month, it is a poignant moment to reflect on the state of women entrepreneurship in South Africa. Undoubtedly, the growth of women-owned businesses is a positive sign, but the journey towards true gender equality in the entrepreneurial landscape is far from over. It is common knowledge that women entrepreneurs in South Africa continue to face several challenges that demand our attention and action.
Undeniably, there has been progress. More women have taken the reins and ventured into entrepreneurship, breaking barriers and reshaping industries. Their resilience and creativity deserve applause, and their contributions have made a profound impact on South Africa’s economic landscape. However, we cannot overlook the hurdles that persist.
Access to funding remains a critical stumbling block for women entrepreneurs. Despite their promising ideas and potential, they often find it arduous to secure financial resources for their startups or business expansions. This disparity in funding opportunities perpetuates gender inequality in the business world and must be addressed urgently.
Support from policymakers and organisations wa has been instrumental in empowering women entrepreneurs. But, we need to push the boundaries further and strengthen these initiatives to create an enabling environment. Comprehensive policies, tailored to address the unique challenges faced by women, can be the catalyst for unleashing their entrepreneurial potential.
Socio-cultural barriers continue to cast a shadow on women’s aspirations to become entrepreneurs. We must challenge the deeply ingrained stereotypes and traditional gender roles that hinder their progress. Supporting a cultural shift that encourages women’s participation in business while fostering a healthy work-life balance is vital for sustainable growth.
Networking and mentorship play pivotal roles in an entrepreneur’s journey. By facilitating platforms for women to connect, learn from one another, and access mentors, we can nurture a vibrant ecosystem that boosts their confidence and capabilities.
Embracing technology and innovation is the way forward. By leveraging digital platforms, women entrepreneurs can reach broader markets and scale their businesses faster. Technological integration can bridge the gender gap and create opportunities that transcend traditional boundaries.
By championing these endeavours, we can harness the full potential of women entrepreneurs in South Africa. It is a collective responsibility to ensure that women have equal opportunities to thrive as entrepreneurs, thereby building a more inclusive, prosperous, and equitable society for all. As we commemorate Women’s Month, let us renew our commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs and unleashing their transformative power on South Africa’s economic and social fabric.
It is essential to continue monitoring the state of women entrepreneurship in South Africa to identify areas that need improvement and ensure that women have equal opportunities to thrive as entrepreneurs. By addressing challenges such as access to funding, policy support, and cultural norms, South Africa can harness the full potential of women entrepreneurs and foster economic growth and social development in the country.
Since we celebrate our women, let’s delve deeper into the stories and achievements of some remarkable women entrepreneurs in South Africa. Let us celebrate these extraordinary women, not just during Women’s Month, but throughout the year, by supporting and promoting their businesses, acknowledging their contributions, and fostering an environment that enables all entrepreneurs to thrive, regardless of gender. Together, we can build a brighter and more inclusive future for South Africa, driven by the strength and vision of its women entrepreneurs.
Dr Precious Moloi-Motsepe: A medical doctor and philanthropist, Dr Precious Moloi-Motsepe co-founded African Fashion International (AFI) to promote and showcase African fashion talent on the global stage. Through AFI, she has provided a platform for emerging designers, contributing to the growth of the fashion industry in Africa while also supporting various educational and healthcare initiatives.
Basetsana Kumalo: A media personality and businesswoman, Basetsana Kumalo ventured into entrepreneurship and founded Bassie’s Furniture and “Connect TV.” Despite facing personal challenges, she has remained resilient and successful in her endeavours. She is an advocate for women’s empowerment and has been involved in several mentorship and educational programmes.
Judy Dlamini: A medical doctor, entrepreneur, and author, Judy Dlamini founded Mbihwa Investment Holdings and Luminance, a high-end retail store promoting African luxury brands. She has also authored books focusing on business, personal development, and women’s empowerment.
Sibongile Sambo: A pioneer in aviation, Sibongile Sambo is the founder and managing director of SRS Aviation, the first 100% black, female-owned aviation company in South Africa. Despite facing financial challenges and gender bias in the industry, she has carved a niche for herself and inspired other women to pursue careers in aviation.
Ntombenhle Khathwane: As the founder of Afri-Berry, Ntombenhle Khathwane has built a successful natural hair and skincare brand. Her products promote self-confidence and self-love among women and have gained widespread recognition both in South Africa and internationally.
Connie Mashaba: A social entrepreneur, Connie Mashaba founded “Bathu Swag” – a shoe brand that has become a symbol of African pride and success. She actively supports youth empowerment and job creation, making a positive impact on communities across South Africa.
Aisha Pandor: As the co-founder of SweepSouth, Aisha Pandor has revolutionised the domestic cleaning industry by creating a platform connecting domestic workers with homeowners. Her innovative approach has not only empowered thousands of women in the gig economy but also fostered economic inclusion.
Gloria Serobe: As the co-founder and Executive Director of WIPHOLD , Gloria Serobe has been a trailblazer in the field of investment and finance. WIPHOLD, an investment holding company, was one of the first women-owned companies to list on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. Gloria’s work has been instrumental in empowering women to participate in the economy and access opportunities in various sectors.
Daphney Mashile-Nkosi: Daphney Mashile-Nkosi is the founder and Executive Chairperson of Kalagadi Manganese. Her company plays a crucial role in the mining and production of manganese, a key mineral used in steel production. Daphney has shown exceptional leadership in the traditionally male-dominated mining industry, breaking barriers and setting an example for other women to follow.
These trailblazers have overcome challenges and stereotypes to build successful businesses that contribute to economic growth and job creation in South Africa. They have also been advocates for women’s economic empowerment and have actively supported initiatives that uplift women and girls in their communities.
These women entrepreneurs, along with many others, exemplify the spirit of innovation, determination, and resilience that defines South Africa’s entrepreneurial landscape. Their stories inspire and remind us of the immense potential that women entrepreneurs hold in driving economic growth and social progress in the nation. As we celebrate Women’s Month, let us recognise and support their efforts, working collectively to create a more inclusive and prosperous South Africa for all.
These women, along with the others, are a testament to the indomitable spirit and resilience of South African women entrepreneurs. Their dedication, innovation, and commitment to making a positive impact have not only transformed their industries but also inspired countless others to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.
As we celebrate Women’s Month, let us honour and recognise the immense contributions of these inspirational women entrepreneurs and all the other incredible women entrepreneurs who continue to shape a more prosperous and inclusive South Africa. Their achievements serve as a powerful reminder that gender should never be a barrier to success, and that with determination and support, women can drive meaningful change and progress in the business world and beyond.
As we move forward, let us collectively pledge to advance women’s entrepreneurship in South Africa. Policymakers, investors, corporations, and communities must come together to level the playing field and provide women with equal opportunities to thrive.
Women’s Month should serve as a reminder of the untapped potential that women entrepreneurs hold in shaping our nation’s future. Empowering women means empowering the economy and society at large. The success of women entrepreneurs has a multiplier effect, stimulating economic growth, fostering job creation, and driving social development.
Let us channel our efforts towards building a future where every woman’s entrepreneurial dreams can take flight. By investing in women, we invest in a more inclusive, prosperous, and equitable South Africa for all. Together, let us write a new chapter, one that celebrates the triumphs of women entrepreneurs and the boundless possibilities that lie ahead.
Celebrating women through jazz music
So, this Sunday through my jazz music programme, “Sunset Serenade”, on Chai 101.9 FM, I’ll be launching a weekly series of paying tribute to women since August is celebrated as the Women’s Month. Though mentioning such stalwarts as Sophie de Bruyn (the only surviving leader of the historic 1956 march), Hellen Joseph, Ruth First, Sheila Weinberg and Albertinah Sisulu, my special focus will be on activist, journalist and author, Ruth Weiss, who lived in Germany (where she was born in 1924), emigrated with her Jewish parents and sister to South Africa in 1936 to escape the rising German persecutions. A global citizen, she also lived in Zimbabwe, Britain, Zambia and Denmark – where she still lives. South Africa has just bestowed upon her an Order of the Companions of O.R. Tambo “for her contribution to the liberation struggle” and shining “the light on injustices in South Africa”.
This award stands out because it’s the first time she is publicly recognised in South Africa.
Why most of us in South Africa don’t know much about her? She mostly worked for international media, her publications were often in German, and most of her books were published by independent publishers. But still, her journalistic output captured the attention of the state’s censors then. “Women Against Apartheid”, a 1980 book she edited, was banned as several of the women activists profiled in it had been detained, among them Helen Joseph and Winnie Mandela. She was then declared a prohibited immigrant and consequently refused re-entry into South Africa after her visit abroad in the 1960s.
Let me now further whet your appetite by giving you a preview of this Sunday repertoire which will feature only extraordinary jazz female artists representing a diversity of styles and influences and their music reflecting the rich tapestry of South Africa’s cultural heritage. Yes, it will be a jazz women’s affair featuring Miriam Makeba; Judith Sephuma; Shannon Mowday; Sibongile Khumalo; Gloria Bosman; Sathima Bea Benjamin; Tandie Klaasen; Sharon Katz featuring Abigail Kubeka; Dorothy Masuka; Thandiswa Mazwai; Titi Luzipo (featuring Ringo Madlingozi and McCoy Mrubata); Tu Nokwe; Suthukazi Arosi (featuring Mahuta); Nomfundo Xaluva; Melanie Scholtz; Zoe Modiga; Tutu Puoane; Thandi Ntuli; and Nobuhle Ashanti (featuring Aliyah Cloete).
Please do tune into 101.9 FM or stream live from www.chaifm.com from 17h00 to 19h00 to enjoy ending your weekend on a high nite listening to my jazz music show.
Stay blessed.
Saul Molobi (FCIM)
Publisher & Group Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
Brandhill Africa™
Tel: +27 11 483 1019
Mobile: +27 83 635 7773
eMail: saul.molobi@brandhillafrica.com
Website: www.brandhillafrica.com
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