A vibrant gathering of women entrepreneurs, aspiring business owners, and cooperative leaders has converged at the Emgwenya Heritage Centre in Mpumalanga on Thursday for a high-impact seminar designed to equip participants with the tools, knowledge, and networks needed to grow their enterprises and navigate the challenges of the South African business landscape. The event, which has drawn attendees from across the province, reflects a growing momentum behind women-led economic empowerment in the region.
The seminar, organized in partnership with local government agencies, development finance institutions, and women’s business associations, features a packed programme of workshops, panel discussions, and mentorship sessions. Topics on the agenda include access to funding, digital marketing strategies, cooperative governance, and navigating regulatory requirements for small and medium enterprises. Participants are also being offered practical guidance on how to position their businesses to benefit from government procurement opportunities and public-private partnerships.
Opening the seminar, Mpumalanga Economic Development MEC Nompumelelo Hlope emphasized the critical role that women entrepreneurs play in driving inclusive economic growth and job creation. “When we empower women, we empower entire communities,” Hlope said. “This seminar is not just about learning—it is about building a movement of women who are ready to lead, innovate, and transform the economy from the ground up.”
The event has also provided a valuable networking platform, with participants from diverse sectors—including agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and technology—sharing experiences and exploring potential collaborations. Many attendees have expressed optimism about the opportunities generated by the gathering, with several already forming partnerships to bid for joint tenders or launch cooperative ventures.
As the seminar continues through the day, organisers have pledged to host similar events regularly to sustain the momentum. For the women of Mpumalanga, the gathering at Emgwenya is more than a one-day event—it is a step toward building a more resilient, inclusive, and prosperous economic future.
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