The grand finale of the KwaZulu-Natal Top Business Women 2022 powered by DRG and BusinessFit SA took place on 17 November at the Coastlands uMhlanga Hotel and Convention Centre.
The glamorous gala evening celebrated the achievements of some of the phenomenal women in KwaZulu-Natal who were nominated by employers, employees, clients, or other stakeholders.
To obtain the stories that formed the basis for the proceedings, the KZN Top Business team interviewed all the women who participated on camera and in three webinars, which were held in the build up to the event. The webinars were facilitated by guest speaker Zanele Luvuno, who is passionate about promoting the future of female leaders.
The participating women shared many of their ups and downs; their wins and their losses. All of the women have incredible insights to offer, which showcase the individual and universal strengths they have been able to draw upon.
David White, CEO of DRG and BusinessFIt, and key sponsor said, “We have been delighted to play a small role in this incredible initiative. Listening to the women’s stories and sharing in their passion and their purpose has been very exciting.”
At the function, six of the women were asked to share aspects of their journeys on stage by host for the evening, East Coast Radio presenter Carol Ofori. These selected women were recognised in the following categories:
· The courage to realise a dream – Dr Lungile Mhlongo, founder and CEO Numa Medical Aesthetics
· Exceeding customer expectations and delivering brilliant experiences – Samantha Croft, director of operations for Southern Sun for the KZN region
· Operating effectively and productively – Nondumiso Mthwa, founder and CEO Idwala Property Group
· Fostering a culture of empowerment and diversity – Jasmeena Shiba, director Royal Tyres
· Making a difference in the business and community – Carol Coetzee head of department for KwaZulu-Natal Provisional Treasury
· A woman extraordinaire: Given to a businessperson who has demonstrated exemplary business achievement, industry influence and is a true inspiration to others – Benita Ardenbaum, founder and director Benita Ardenbaum Attorneys
Special recognition was given to Cherry Armstrong, the director and founder of Celebrate Life SA. The organisation makes a tangible difference in the lives of rural communities by empowering women who previously felt hopeless and helpless, feeding children who haven’t had a solid meal, and implementing projects that are sustainable and uplifting. In particular, the Ubuntu Micro Bakery Project is a national project that changes the lives of hundreds of women for the better, every year.
Grant Adlam, CEO of KZN Top Business, said, “Our theme this year was ‘Women of Influence’. Our team has been humbled by the many amazing women whose stories we have heard. These stories are about women, from many different backgrounds, who have had varied journeys to get to where they are today and have much wisdom to offer. It is hoped that this initiative and the recognition afforded to all participants will inspire other women to strive to achieve more in their own endeavours.”
As attendance was limited, the gala evening was streamed: www.youtu.be/bt9tsokhfik
For more info: www.kzntopbusiness.com
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