The Tshwane Women in Business Awards (TWIBA) 2025 took place on 30 September, celebrating women entrepreneurs who are driving innovation, resilience, and economic growth in Tshwane. Now in its fourth year, the event brought together business leaders, policymakers, and community members to recognise women’s achievements across sectors like agribusiness, renewable energy, technology, fashion, property, construction, and Tourism
MMC Sarah Mabotsa addressed attendees, highlighting the city’s economic developments and the importance of collaboration.
She pointed to key sectors, including manufacturing and automotive, and emphasised that Tshwane’s growth depends on rising together. “Your dreams are valid, your contributions are valued, and your leadership is essential to shaping the economy of this city,” Mabotsa said, reminding women that their participation matters not just for themselves but for their communities.
Acknowledging the effort and innovation of women entrepreneurs, Tlangi Mogale, MMC for Roads and Transport, celebrated the awards as a platform that empowers more women to start and grow their businesses.
TWIBA 2025 also showcased deeply personal stories of courage. Ms. Liezle Wilson shared the journey of a young woman who graduated in 2022 with a business qualification and dreamed of running her own company. Coming from a township in the Western Cape, she faced assault and trauma that almost ended her life. At TWIBA, seeing successful women entrepreneurs inspired her to say, “I wanted to be like those women.” With support and mentorship, she began to reclaim her strength and now hopes to inspire other women to rise above their own challenges.
The awards also featured performances by young talents and beneficiaries of TEDA’s legacy projects, highlighting the multi-generational and multicultural nature of Tshwane’s women led business community. Winners and finalists received access to mentorship, funding opportunities, and networking platforms tools to help scale their businesses, create jobs, and drive social and economic impact.
TWIBA 2025 was more than a celebration; it was a reminder that women entrepreneurs are central to Tshwane’s economic growth and transformation. By recognising achievements, sharing inspiring stories, and creating opportunities, the awards highlighted the power of women to uplift communities, influence industries, and shape the next generation of leaders.
