2024 Santam Women of the Future Awards: A celebration of exceptional entrepreneurial talent

By Gugu Mtetwa, Chief Operating Officer, Santam

Women in business face several unique challenges. Lack of access to finance, income inequality and social barriers present serious hurdles to success as a woman entrepreneur. Santam, together with our partners; FAIRLADY and TRUELOVE, recognise that we are well poised to help change the narrative.

We see the Women Of The Future Awards as a means to recognise and showcase the incredible role played by women entrepreneurs in helping solve societal problems, whilst also driving sustainable economic growth in South Africa. It is our responsibility to help promote local enterprises to survive and thrive, especially in these tough economic times.

Now in its 10^th year, the Women of the Future Awards are an annual showcase and competition, where we continue to invest in our people, nurturing the next generation of women leaders who show pragmatism, resilience and the ability to manoeuvre difficult situations with grace.

This year, entrants stand a to win their share of prizes valued at over R692 000, including a cash prize of R275 000.

The awards categories

Participants can be nominated for awards in three categories. The Santam Woman of the Future title will be awarded to an entrepreneur whose business is older than 1 000 days and who is well on her way to establishing an extensive enterprise.

The Santam Rising Star title will be awarded to an entrepreneur between 16 and 35 years old who is still within her first 1 000 days but whose business is deemed by the judges, to have a good chance of future success. Finally, the competition will also honour an entrepreneur who is using her business, social enterprise or NPO to make a tangible difference within her community and who has operated for at least 1000 days. Entrants in this category will be eligible for The Santam Social Entrepreneur award.

A judging panel of industry experts

On the judging panel this year are women leaders whose careers and contributions to the business arena and their fields of expertise have exemplified a spirit of excellence and integrity. Among them is Professor Thuli Madonsela, former South African Public Protector and the current Director of the Centre for Social Justice and Law Professor at the University of Stellenbosch.

Also, part of the judging panel this year will be 2020 Santam WOTF Awards winner, Dr Mmamontsheng ‘Dulcy’ Rakumakoe, social entrepreneur and founder of Quadcare Occupational Health.