Upcoming Tshwane Women in Business Awards event promises exciting experience for finalists
Excitement is in the air as the Tshwane Economic Development Agency (TEDA) prepares to host the 2024 Tshwane Women in Business Awards (TWIBA) on 26 November at the Ditsong Museum of Cultural History.
The theme for this year’s awards is, “Advocating diversity and inclusion of Tshwane women trailblazers for economic emancipation” – a worthy topic as TEDA recognises, honours and celebrates the significant contributions that female business owners in Tshwane make to the City’s economy.
“The Tshwane Women in Business Awards serve as a platform that highlights the vital role women play in our economy. By supporting these entrepreneurs, we are investing in the future of Tshwane and ensuring their contributions are acknowledged and celebrated,” shares Dr Lardo Stander, TEDA CEO.
Women making significant strides in agro-processing, automotive, exports, investments, manufacturing, renewable energy as well as those making a transformative impact by employing individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, people with disabilities or contributing to transformation in other ways were encouraged to apply.
This celebratory event of incredible women leading the charge in business promises a lineup of captivating speakers: from Councillor Sarah Mabotsa, a Member of the Mayoral Committee for Economic Development and Spatial Planning and a strong advocate for women’s rights and empowerment within local government; and Councillor Dr Nasiphi Moya, executive mayor of the City of Tshwane, who prioritises initiatives aimed at promoting women’s empowerment and economic participation. These speakers will bring valuable insights and experiences to the awards, highlighting the importance of women’s contributions to business and economic development in Tshwane.
“Recognising the achievements of women entrepreneurs is crucial for fostering an inclusive economy. The TWIBA not only celebrates their successes but also empowers them to reach greater heights in their business endeavours,” comments Anjue Hirachund, TEDA board member.
Together, these speakers hope to exemplify a collective effort to enhance women’s roles in business and contribute to a more equitable economic landscape in Tshwane. Their initiatives create opportunities for dialogue, support and recognition that empower women entrepreneurs to succeed.
The primary objective of the TWIBA is to recognise the indispensable role played by women in igniting the economy of the City of Tshwane. These awards seek to elevate the role of women entrepreneurs in the economy of Tshwane as well as link the businesses of these female trailblazers with further opportunities and support programmes offered by the City and various agencies and role-players.
The awards are also used as leading examples to encourage more women to take up opportunities presented by progressive legislation, various instruments and institutions to increase the participation of women in business. For its part, TEDA, working with the City of Tshwane, will bring various agencies on board to showcase their financial and non-financial products to women entrepreneurs and facilitate engagements between Tshwane women-owned businesses and these agencies.
TWIBA 2024 promises an experience packed with valuable information, exhibitions, practical assistance and crucial networking opportunities. This year’s awards will also introduce exciting and innovative prizes for winners and entrepreneurs who have demonstrated resilience and sustainability in their business operations.
This year is the third time the TWIBA will be held, following the successful event last year. In 2023, the awards adopted an innovative approach to ensure it didn’t just identify and recognise women-owned businesses but also provided practical support to these businesses by providing them with tools of trade like computers, tablets, data and skills relevant to their businesses.
