Commonwealth Businesswomen Africa launches in Sandton

Businesswomen from all walks of life gathered for the launch of Commonwealth Business Women Africa at the Theatre on the Square in Sandton on 25 October.

The newly launched network works with women across 52 countries of the Commonwealth to help forge new business relationships, create opportunities for trade and develop new skills and knowledge. The network connects businesswomen with government and the private sector to encourage and enable women’s economic empowerment.

The glamorous launch was emceed by comedian Tumi Morake, who captured the audience as she introduced prominent businesswoman, daughter of the late Nelson Mandela and director of the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Makaziwe Mandela.

The businesswoman motivated women to believe in themselves and get out of their comfort zone so they could make changes in business on the African continent.

“If women in Africa are not confident enough to seize their opportunities, they will lose out,” said Mandela. She added that a lack of start-up capital was often the greatest obstacle in the way of women becoming successful and changing the business paradigm in Africa.

CEO and founder of the Working Mother’s Expo, Janice Windt, discussed the new space that many women found themselves in – juggling motherhood and careers. “Women must realise that they are the pioneers of a new era that will greatly impact the next generation,” she said. “Be kind to yourself and each other and make the best decisions you can.”

Director of Commonwealth Businesswomen Africa, Farzana Varachia said she decided to link up with the Commonwealth to open up opportunities for women who were struggling to break through the glass ceiling in the workplace. She said Commonwealth Business Women Africa would provide the tools to help grow businesses through not only networking but a trading platform.

The Sandton Chronicle spoke to a number of women in attendance to find out what motivated them to attend the launch. Lynette Magasa of Boniswa Group said she saw the event as a networking opportunity to expand her business.

Businesswoman Alisha Ramasa said, “This is a great place to meet like-minded women and grow your contacts and celebrate women in business.”

Shamila Ramjawan who owns the PrincessD menstrual cup business said, “This is a major networking opportunity for me with room to grow and develop. It is also a platform that uplifts and empowers women in Africa.”

Details: To find out more about Commonwealth Businesswomen Africa, visit their website on www.cbwafrica.com