Entrepreneurship isn’t only about running a business, but it is also about offering solutions to problems. It’s also about having the perseverance to see your goals through to fruition. South Africa has a number of top female entrepreneurs who are helping to create jobs, thus actively contributing towards economic growth.
These top women entrepreneurs in South Africa have demonstrated the ability to persevere and to overcome challenges in order to be able to lead dynamic, powerful businesses
Basetsana Kumalo
Executive chairman & CEO of Basetsana Woman Investment Holdings (Pty) Ltd, Basetsana Kumalo is a successful entrepreneur.
From a young age, Kumalo sold sandwiches at local soccer games. This laid down a solid foundation for future business endeavours later in life.
First gaining widespread recognition as Miss South Africa, she went on to become a Miss World runner-up. Using these opportunities to propel her career ambitions, she became a presenter on popular TV show Top Billing and went on to co-own the production company behind the show (Tswelopele Productions). Kumalo has also ventured into clothing, an eyewear as well as a cosmetic range.
She is currently the president of the Business Women’s Association of South Africa and continues to succeed as a television and media powerhouse in South Africa.
Bridgette Radebe
Founder and Chairman of Mmakou, Radebe is the country’s first black female mining entrepreneur. The 55-year-old president of the South African Mining Development Association is also the sister of mining magnate Patrice Motsepe.
Radebe’s company, Mmakou Mining is a firm which initiates explorations and helps to produce platinum, gold and chrome.
The former miner has come a long way and was awarded an “International Businessperson of the Year” award in 2008.
The good news for women entrepreneurs in South Africa is that specialist finance company for small and medium enterprises in South Africa, Business/Partners Limited recently announced the launch of a R250 million Women in Business Fund.
With continued support from government and the private sector, women entrepreneurs in South Africa can continue to flourish and help build a stronger economy.