KZN Top Business Awards 2025 are now open for entries

Are you ready to have your business celebrated? The KZN Top Business Awards 2025 are now open for entries. This is a genuine opportunity for businesses to be recognised for their hard work, innovation, and achievements.

Powered by Standard Bank and WOA Group, this year the awards have attracted an additional sponsor, the WOA Group. Pria Hassan, CEO of WOA, expressed her enthusiasm about this partnership, saying, “I’m so excited! I never in my wildest dreams thought I would be able to participate in such a meaningful event.

” Imraan Noorbhai, Head Standard Bank Client Coverage PPB KZN commented, “Recognising the success of KwaZulu-Natal’s business community is intrinsically linked to the prosperity of the region and the continent we call home As Standard Bank, we believe that recognising excellence isn’t just about celebrating past achievements. It’s about inspiring future growth as we navigate the opportunities and challenges of 2025. We remain dedicated to being your partner. In progress, supporting their ambitions and aspirations that drive consumer retail and Africa forward.

” Highlighting the value of the KZN Top Business Awards, Hassan remarked, “It gives businesses visibility and access to the market, something that usually requires a significant investment. Many entrepreneurs have brilliant concepts and amazing teams but lack the platform to showcase their credibility. This event builds trust, encourages excellence, and fosters collaboration with suppliers and customers.

” She added, “It’s not just about branding. It’s about celebrating milestones, sharing your story, and inspiring others. This is an opportunity to position your business alongside an organisation that knows how to build brands responsibly. If you want to contribute to an inclusive, thriving economy, take that quantum leap of faith in yourself. This is the perfect stage to be heard.”

The 2025 categories are as follows:

1. Manufacturing Sector

2. Transport/Logistics Sector

3. Franchising Sector

4. Family-Owned/Managed Businesses

5. Agricultural and AgroProcessing Sector

6. Business, Financial and Educational Sector

7. Community Upliftment and Improvement

8. Renewable Efficiency – Green initiatives

9. Employee Wellness

10. Partnership Award

In addition, the KwaZulu-Natal Top Brand award is much desired, and adjudication is based only on the results of a public poll. The voting for this award will be opened in May.

The KZN Top Business Leader’s award is an honorary award given to a businessperson who has demonstrated exemplary business achievement, industry influence and is a true inspiration to others. Previous winners include, among others, Brian Howarth, managing director, Magnet (2024); Owen Heffer, owner Hollywoodbets (2023); Esay Reddy, CEO, KZN Oils (2022); Ashok Sewnarain, founder and chairman, IBV (2021).

To be eligible for a KZN Top Business Award, a company or organisation must have a registered office in KwaZuluNatal.

Each award category has specific judging criteria outlined in the award description, and winners will be selected based on their alignment with these criteria, as determined by the judging panel. Entrants must demonstrate their contribution to the KZN economy and showcase a proactive business model that adheres to the principles of King IV. The overall quality of the entry, including the strength and validity of the claims submitted, will be a key factor in the evaluation process. To make the event as representative as possible, there are no costs attached to entries.

Noorbhai added, “I encourage all eligible businesses to submit your entries before the closing date of June the 13th. This is your opportunity to showcase your achievements. Hard work deserves recognition and joining a prestigious community of business leaders while shaping our province’s future.”

The announcement of the finalists and winners will take place at a gala dinner on 17 July 2025.  For more information visit www.kzntopbusiness.com or contact Gayle Adlam at +27(0)83 653 0465 or editorial@mweb.co.za

ENTER THE AWARDS

Grant Adlam, CEO KZN Top Business and Pria Hassan, CEO of WOA Group

Grant Adlam, CEO KZN Top Business and Imraan Noorbhai, Head Standard Bank Client Coverage PPB KZN