Women in Business Awards Highlight Resilience and Innovation in Tshwane

Celebrating Female Entrepreneurship in Tshwane

The City of Tshwane recently celebrated the achievements of exceptional female entrepreneurs at the fourth annual Tshwane Women in Business Awards (TWIBA), held at The Maslow Hotel in Menlyn Maine. Organised by the Tshwane Economic Development Agency (TEDA), the event recognised women across various sectors who have significantly contributed to the local economy.

Inclusive Growth and Leadership

Sarah Mabotsa, Member of the Mayoral Committee for Economic Development and Spatial Planning, highlighted the importance of inclusive growth in Tshwane’s economic strategy. She emphasised that women possess unique skills in multitasking, balancing roles as mothers, wives, leaders, and community empowerers.

“These awards serve to recognise, celebrate and develop women leaders in Tshwane,” Mabotsa said.

Impact of TWIBA on Women-Owned Businesses

Anjue Hirachund, TEDA board member, noted the awards’ wide-reaching impact. Over the years, TWIBA has recognised more than 200 women-owned companies and secured over R1.5 million in sponsorships.

“These awards have helped women-owned businesses in Tshwane to develop markets and grow their companies. These impacts have a ripple effect across the entire value chain, economy, and community,” Hirachund explained.

Spotlight on Successful Entrepreneurs

Khuliswa Mazizi – Agriculture and Agro-Processing

A past winner, Khuliswa Mazizi credited TEDA for empowering her food production company, Tanolemon. What started as a small venture in her garage has grown into a thriving business, now supplying food products to both national and international markets.

Nomathemba Selesho – Transport and Logistics

Founder of Themba Liyeza Solutions, Nomathemba Selesho was recognised for her work in transport and logistics. Her company provides services in heavy-duty coal transport, scholar transport, courier services, and water solutions, and has achieved Level 1 BBBEE status while empowering local communities.

Itumeleng Moloto – Innovative Agriculture

A special award was presented to Itumeleng Moloto from Eden Farm for her innovative approach to agriculture. Eden Farm employs precision irrigation systems that optimise water usage, reduce waste, and ensure crops receive the exact amount of water needed. Their drip irrigation method minimises soil erosion and runoff.

Encouraging Women to Lead

Tlangi Mogale, MMC for Roads and Transport, praised the awards for recognising the hard work of women entrepreneurs and inspiring more women to establish their own businesses. Mogale expressed hope for the inclusion of a category for women engineers in future awards.

Sarah Mabotsa concluded the ceremony by congratulating all finalists and winners:

“The Tshwane Women in Business Awards send a clear and powerful message to aspiring women leaders: that their dreams are valid, their contributions are valued, and their leadership is essential to shaping the future of our city.”

Continuing the Legacy

The TWIBA continues to serve as a platform for recognising and empowering women entrepreneurs, fostering an environment where their contributions to the economy and society are celebrated and supported.