5 South African Women Making Waves

South Africa is a nation brimming with remarkable individuals who are making a significant impact in various fields. Among them are women breaking barriers, challenging norms, and making waves nationwide. In recognition of Women's Day, we spotlight five inspiring South African women leaving an indelible mark on their communities and beyond. 

From entrepreneurs driving financial literacy to social activists championing equality and sustainability, these women are driving positive change and serving as beacons of inspiration. Join us as we explore the extraordinary achievements and contributions of these five South African trailblazers, showcasing their unwavering determination, resilience, and commitment to making a difference.

Yolandi Schoeman

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Yolandi Schoeman is a highly regarded transformation leader in ecological engineering, renowned internationally for her work. At 37 years old, she has made significant contributions to the biotechnology sector and is widely recognised as an expert in her field. Yolandi is an External Lecturer and Examiner at Monash University, imparting her knowledge and expertise to aspiring environmental scientists.

Yolandi is the visionary founder of several successful biotechnology companies, including Baopod and Baoberry. Baoberry, in particular, has achieved notable acclaim, receiving the bronze award in the Waste Management and Recycling category at the prestigious 2019 Eco-Logic Awards. Furthermore, the company was honoured with the Catalyser Award at the 2019 SEED Awards, a testament to its innovative solutions and commitment to sustainability.

Schoeman's outstanding achievements have garnered significant recognition throughout her career. She was honoured as a Mail and Guardian 200 Young South African in 2015, joining the esteemed ranks of accomplished young leaders in the country. Her academic qualifications are equally impressive, with a Doctorate in Environmental Management, double Masters Degrees, and she is currently pursuing a PhD in Economic and Management Sciences at North-West University.

Masabata Sebusi

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Masabata Sebusi is a 23-year-old student at the University of the Free State in South Africa. She is the co-founder of an organisation called Sprout Africa, which is dedicated to addressing poverty, food insecurity, and nutrition deficits in South African communities.

The main focus of Sprout Africa is to establish small-scale subsistence and commercial farmers by providing them with mentoring and assistance in adopting modern farming techniques. The organisation also aims to connect these farmers with local supermarkets, creating a sustainable source of income for them.

Through their efforts, Sprout Africa has already made a significant impact. They have positively influenced the lives of 102 individuals who can now support over 500 people.

Munozovepi Gwata

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Munozovepi Gwata (also known as Muno) is a young entrepreneur and advocate for financial economic inclusion in South Africa. She founded Kukura, a community-driven initiative that empowers individuals through financial literacy, enabling them to make informed financial decisions.

Despite only being 20 years old, Muno utilised her legal experience as a student to identify gaps and opportunities in the African market. Her efforts led her to collaborate with prestigious organisations such as the World Economic Forum, TED, and the World Youth Forum, where she shared her insights and contributed to discussions on financial inclusion and empowerment.

Muno has a vision to inspire people across Africa, and she recently completed a children's book called "The Rich Life of Thabo." Co-authored with her friend Charisa Mujuru, the book aims to initiate conversations about financial literacy among young South Africans. By addressing this topic early, Muno hopes to instil essential knowledge and understanding of personal finance in the younger generation.

Nadia Beeslaar

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Nadia Beeslaar (24) is a Cape Town-based entrepreneur and the founder of NVW The Label, an online fashion boutique. She launched her business in 2019, following a year filled with successes and its setbacks. Initially studying fashion design, Beeslaar encountered difficulties and failed her second year of studies. However, driven by her love for fashion and a desire to carve her path to success, she launched her fashion brand.

Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19 lockdowns, Nadia Beeslaar's passion and determination enabled her to create a trendy and high-quality online clothing brand. Through NVW The Label, she offers stylish designs and continues to keep fashion alive in South Africa. Over two years, she has not only established a strong presence in the online fashion industry but has also opened a warehouse where she and her team of seamstresses craft her beautiful designs.

Nadia Beeslaar's journey showcases her resilience and entrepreneurial spirit. By overcoming obstacles and pursuing her passion, she has successfully built a thriving fashion business. Her dedication to providing fashionable and high-quality clothing demonstrates her commitment to keeping the South African fashion industry vibrant and alive.

Jolandi Jacobs

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Jolandi Jacobs is a Sports Physiotherapist and the visionary behind Running Raspberries, a thriving women's running community that promotes inclusivity and physical activity in South Africa. Founded in 2021, Running Raspberries has experienced remarkable growth, expanding to over 20 communities nationwide. With a range of organised running events, group activities, and online engagement, Jacobs has crafted an empowering platform that inspires women to embrace an active lifestyle while fostering a sense of unity and motivation.

Beyond her dedication to Running Raspberries, Jacobs has also established Sports Bodies. This rehabilitation centre provides specialised physical therapy and comprehensive recovery services for athletes and individuals healing from sports-related injuries. Through this initiative, Jacobs delivers targeted support to aid in the rehabilitation and restoration of physical well-being.

Jacobs' multifaceted endeavours underscore her unwavering commitment to enhancing physical well-being and forging inclusive spaces for women in South Africa. As a Sports Physiotherapist and community leader, she leaves an indelible positive impact on the lives of individuals by championing physical activity, fostering strong community connections, and providing vital rehabilitation and recovery assistance to athletes.

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