Businesses all over the West Rand once again opened themselves to scrutiny to compete for the ultimate title of Business of the Year.
This year, the West Rand Chamber of Business and Tourism (WRCBT) analysed not only the manner in which businesses carried themselves in the West Rand, but also on their community impact, clean audits and client service.
Among the guests was Action Ford Krugersdorp’s franchise principal and Business of the Year Platinum winner, Hartogh Streicher, who humbly accepted his award. The Mayor of the West Rand District Municipality, Mpho Nawa, Mr South Africa, Armand du Plessis, Miss West Rand, Adeline Suerman, Professor Piet Croucamp, Alan Mukoki and the chamber’s directors were all part of the entrepreneurs and innovators awarded at Usambara Lodge on 11 November.
Among political jokes, business motivation and friendly chatter, small and large business owners all sat at the edge of their seats when the key note speaker and politics professor at the University of Johannesburg, Piet Croucamp, address the crowd.
Immediately jumping into the topic of business and the South African economy, Piet did not shy away from telling facts that might have raised a few eyebrows.
“The South African economy grows by a mere 1,5 percent a year,” he informed the room of pioneers.
“Entrepreneurs are meant to fill the gap in the economy, but leaves because of poor service delivery. This is why, even with such a low employment rate, South Africa is still a relatively stable society.
“Many people are stepping into the service deliver void – and that’s where they make their money,” he said.
Businesswoman of the Year, Jenneth Prinsloo from Plantwise, was awarded for her abilities as an independent entrepreneur and showed great appreciation – and even a bit of disbelief – when her name was called.
Like the CEO of the South African Chamber Commerce and Industry, Alan Mukoki, put it: “Congratulations to each one of you and thank you for the work you do. You are invaluable to the South African economy.”
The News wishes to congratulate the business achievers of 2015 and wish them the best of luck for next year.
For more photos of the awards, click here.
Related articles:
• WRCBT Business Awards – glitz and glamour
• West Rand business awards in photos
• Is your business a winning business?
