August serves as a poignant reminder that there is no better time to celebrate and spotlight the remarkable achievements of South African women in business.
As we embrace this month dedicated to honouring women’s empowerment, it becomes an opportune moment to reflect on their significant contributions and successes.
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At a recent highly celebrated event in Bryanston, Morongwe ‘Mo’ Mokone and Refilwe Sebothoma were recognised as the winners of the 2024 Veuve Clicquot Bold Woman Award, and Bold Future Award respectively.
Now in its 52nd year, these prestigious awards honour businesswomen worldwide who embody the fearless spirit of Madame Clicquot, paving the way for future generations of courageous women.
Madame Clicquot, also known as Barbe-Nicole Clicquot Ponsardin, was a prominent French businesswoman who played a significant role in the development of the champagne industry. She is credited with innovations such as the riddling table, which improved the clarity and quality of champagne, and she played a crucial role in expanding the market for champagne internationally.
Mokone is the co-founder of Mo’s Crib, a home decor and design company specialising in practical, handmade items crafted from recycled materials.
“Winning the Bold Woman Award is an incredible honour and a profound celebration of the challenges I have overcome,” she said.
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“This recognition is not only a personal achievement but also a testament to the resilience and determination required to navigate and succeed in the entrepreneurial world.”
Sebothoma is the founder of Hakem Energies, a company dedicated to providing accessible and affordable liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to marginalised communities.
Sebothoma said, “I have always seen entrepreneurship as a tool that could not only impact my own life but also the lives of women like my mother and grandmother.”
She noted that winning the Bold Future Award validated her work but for Hakem Energies, it represented much more.
“It is a global platform to amplify and accelerate our vision of combating energy poverty and saving lives through accessible LPG for all communities.”
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