Recognition of Women in Agriculture at the 2025 Entrepreneur Awards in Western Cape

In the heart of Elsenburg's Percheron Hall, on August 28, 2025, the Women Entrepreneur Awards 2025 took place, themed "Accelerating Action for All Women's Rights, Equality and Empowerment." The event was jointly addressed by Dr Ivan Meyer, Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, and Jane Sithole, national Deputy Minister of Small Business Development.

Dr Mogale Sebopetsa, the Head of the Western Cape Department of Agriculture, opened the ceremony, stating that the awards recognize outstanding women across the agricultural value chain. He highlighted the crucial role these women play in ensuring food security, job creation, and economic growth.

Minister Meyer, in his address, emphasized the future of agriculture in the Western Cape being female, innovative, resilient, and unstoppable. He acknowledged the critical role of officials within the Western Cape Department of Agriculture, specifically CFO Lindi Govender and Deputy Director General, Dr Ilse Trautmann, in supporting women entrepreneurs.

Jane Sithole encouraged women to continue writing their own stories, noting that they are collaborating rather than competing and cooperating rather than isolating. She celebrated the achievements of women in agriculture, turning small plots into thriving enterprises and cooperatives into thriving engines of local growth.

Some of the winners included Adre Prins of Willow Creek Farm, Zokhanya Bikani of Zozo Mushrooms and Vegs, Yumna Monier of Wildplum Growers, and Debbie Theunissen of One Vision Investments. Wendy Petersen, CEO of the SA Olive Association, and Mariette Kotze, General Manager of Hortgro, received certificates of acknowledgement for their exceptional leadership.

Minister Meyer concluded by saying that the guidance and support of these officials are essential in building an inclusive and sustainable agricultural sector. He stated that the women being honored are cultivating not only the land but also hope, innovation, and resilience, making their achievements victories for their communities and for South Africa.

Recognition of Women in Agriculture at the 2025 Entrepreneur Awards in Western Cape