By Nyeleti Madonsela
The start of Women’s Month was marked with a celebration of women in business as Purposefully Influencing hosted a business empowerment initiative at Parkhill, Durban, on Saturday, 1 August.
The initiative aims to help women entrepreneurs grow their businesses by giving them the opportunity to pitch their businesses to a panel of judges. Instead of competing for a fixed cash prize, each business is considered for funding and support based on its individual needs.
Organisers say the programme is focused on empowering women, helping them achieve their business goals and creating more employment opportunities within their communities. Kajal Maharaj says, “So we have come together to build and empower women. From the beginning of Purposefully Influencing, our entire passion has been women, not just women in business but also content creators. It is about uplifting girls. We have the She Rises Power Programme, which is for the youth. So, it is about all sides of women.”
Women entrepreneurs from different industries presented their businesses and shared how financial support, mentorship and exposure could help them expand their operations and reach more customers. Paula Nomusa Zulu, owner of Nana Bakes, says, “If I get funding today, since my business has no physical store, it will help me open one where my customers can come in and see all my baked goods upfront so they can see what we have to offer. If I open a store, I can be an inspiration to women and young girls because I started with nothing but hope.”
The judging panel assessed each business on its potential for growth, sustainability, and community impact. Rather than awarding a set prize, judges will recommend funding and support according to what each business needs to succeed. One of the judges, Nikisha Lupcu, says, “We look at whether there is a gap in the market and whether the business is unique. As much as we are creating businesses to create opportunities and financial gain, it must be driven by purpose. You must love what you do because, when you start a business, somewhere along the line you will face challenges. Money is not enough. It must be something that, when you wake up in the morning, you love to do. That is what we are looking for.”
As Women’s Month begins, the initiative highlights the growing role of women entrepreneurs in building stronger communities. By investing in women-led businesses, organisers hope to create opportunities that will not only help businesses grow but also create jobs for those in need.
