Nqobile Nzuza, the provincial head of the enterprise banking team at Standard Bank in the Western Cape, opened the conference with a powerful keynote address. Emphasising the significance of empowering women in leadership roles, Nzuza highlighted the resilience and contributions of South African women entrepreneurs. She spoke candidly about the challenges women face, such as achieving work-life balance, and offered practical advice on setting boundaries, delegating, and prioritising self-care.
“By changing nothing, nothing ever changes. You are here because you're a top woman," Nzuza affirmed. "Balancing life doesn't mean changing your whole life. It means small things, and I think small things matter. Set and enforce boundaries, delegate, outsource when needed, prioritise self-care, and use technology. What's most important is that every single day, you wake up and show up."
Heléne Smuts, a board member of EO Accelerator and founder of Credo Growth, delivered the keynote address, highlighting the impact of unconscious biases in the workplace. She noted that one in three people do not trust their leaders or managers and discussed how biases from leaders, colleagues, and founders affect workplace dynamics.
“For the past 15 years, I have been in the people development and culture development industry,” Smuts stated. “29% of women prefer to work remotely, not because it’s easier, but because they don’t have to deal with the unpleasant interactions that they get in the office. I urge you to sit here and think, what do you tolerate in your business?”
Smuts introduced the concept of "Life Positions" by Eric Berne, explaining how individuals perceive themselves in relation to others in different scenarios. Humans explore unhealthy positions like feeling inferior or blaming oneself, as well as healthier positions that promote mutual respect and a constructive approach to conflict resolution. Smuts encouraged the audience to assess their attitudes, engage in open communication using the language of "Life Positions," and seek mentorship or support when needed.
Denise Stubbs, managing director of Thokozani Wines and winner of the 2023 Cape Town EmpowHER Conference, shared her inspiring journey from a labourer's child to a successful business owner. She emphasised the importance of authenticity and staying true to one's roots, while also highlighting the impact of becoming a mentor and face for other entrepreneurs in the community.
Nonkqubela Jordan-Dyani, director general of the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies, delivered a compelling address, drawing from her personal journey and insights as a leader in the public sector. Reflecting on her humble beginnings and the influence of her parents, Jordan-Dyani emphasised the importance of self-belief and determination in overcoming challenges. She underscored the critical role of women in driving economic growth and urged for deliberate efforts to overcome societal barriers hindering their progress. "Empowerment starts with owning your worth and believing in your potential, regardless of the challenges you may face,” Jordan-Dyani added.
Cleopatra Van Ster, founder of Nurseit Primary & Occupational Healthcare Services, was announced as the 2024 winner of the EmpowHER Cape Town regional pitching event. Van Ster’s business focuses on providing affordable and quality primary healthcare services to underserved communities.
“We provide access to private health care at affordable costs. Where you would pay R3,000 for sutures at a private hospital, we charge R500, but give you the same quality service while still making a profit,” Van Ster explained. “Your business can only be sustainable if you’re not working in it, but working on your business.”
2024 Runners-up for the Cape Town leg are:
“A heartfelt thank you goes out to our esteemed panel of judges for their invaluable contributions and expertise throughout the event. We extend our gratitude to Nqobile Nzuza, head of Enterprise Banking, Western Cape, Business and Commercial Banking at Standard Bank; Heléne Smuts, board member of EO Accelerator (EOA) and founder of Credo Growth; Jade Snell-Engledoe, head of Sector Specialists, Western Cape, Business and Commercial Banking at Standard Bank; and Nthabeleng Leballo, head of Relationship Banking, Proposition Management, Business and Commercial Banking at Standard Bank. Their dedication and insight were instrumental in ensuring the success and integrity of the EmpowHER Conference. We deeply appreciate their commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs and fostering a culture of empowerment in the business community,” concludes Ralf Fletcher, CEO of Topco Media.
The EmpowHER Conference exemplified the power of women-led businesses and the critical role of support systems in fostering business growth. Standard Bank’s continued partnership with Topco Media for the EmpowHER Development Series highlights its commitment to driving meaningful change in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Alexandra Kotchoubei, marketing manager, via az.oc.ocpot@iebuohctok.ardnaxela.
