In a country where unemployment is high, and the economy is declining we look at five female inspirational entrepreneurs and their success stories.
BASETSANA KHUMALO
During the symbolic year of 1994, Basetsana Kumalo won the Miss South Africa pagent. She then went on to put South Africa on the map when she became the first runner up at Miss World in the same year.
However, Basetsana is not just a pretty face she is also now a renowned business woman. She formed her production company Tswelopele Productions in the 90s which now produces shows such as Top Billing and Our Perfect wedding.
A few years later the company made it on the JSE listing.
The award-winning entrepreneur is also a giver of note. She and her husband and businessman Romeo Kumalo have founded the Romeo and Basetsana Kumalo Family foundation which supports orphans, especially those whose parents passed away from HIV/ AIDS related illnesses.
CAROL BOUWER
The powerhouse began her career in front of the camera as presenter and actress.
She then moved on to start her own production company – Carol Bouwer Productions.
One of their longest standing productions is SABC 2’s Motswako, which Carol used to present. The show looks at women’s issues such as health, finances and relationships. Eight years ago, Carol Bouwer Productions came up with the Mbokodo Awards, which recognises women who have shown leadership, fostered growth and made efforts to strengthen the arts.
CONNIE FERGUSON
Many of us first came to know Connie as Karabo Moroka on the SABC 1’s Generations.
She was adored by fans and her departure from the show was a disappointment for many. In 2010 Connie and her actor husband, Shona Ferguson launched Ferguson Films.
The pair have given South Africa strong TV dramas such as The Queen, The Throne and The River to name a few. Unlike Carol Bouwer, who also left acting to start her own production company, Connie has a role in one of her productions which airs on Mzansi Magic.
DR PRECIOUS MOTSEPE
In the 90’s Dr Precious become a qualified medical doctor and has over two decades of experience as general practitioner.
The entrepreneur is very much passionate about women’s health issues. Noting her interest in fashion the Dr, who is married to businessman Patrice Motsepe, formed African Fashion International in 2007, which encourages young South African designers.
KHANYI DHLOMO
KZN born entrepreneur Khanyi Dhlomo began her career as an award-winning television news and lifestyle anchor.
She later moved on to become the editor of lifestyle magazine True Love.
Her appointment sky-rocketed magazine sales to more than double in her first year as editor. In 2007 the business woman started Ndalo Media in partnership with Naspers where she printed Destiny Magazine and Destiny Men.
Late last year Ndalo Media closed their doors but we can be sure that this isn’t the last we would be hearing from the business mogul.
