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Celebrating the Women Shaping KZN’s Future

By Gayle Adlam

 

KZN Top Business Woman 2025: Nontheto Smith, founder and managing director, Uthinga Mills
KZN Top Business Woman 2025: Nontheto Smith, founder and managing director, Uthinga Mills

As South Africa celebrates Women’s Month this August, there is no better time to shine a spotlight on the women who are leading businesses, transforming industries, creating opportunities and making a meaningful difference across KwaZulu-Natal.


Nominations are open for KZN Top Business Women 2026, with only 40 women selected for recognition each year. With spaces already filling up fast, women and their organisations are encouraged to submit nominations without delay.


Now in its seventh year, the initiative is proudly powered by the Women of Africa Group and supported by Morar Incorporated. More than a recognition programme, KZN Top Business Women provides a platform to celebrate and share the stories of women whose leadership, innovation, resilience and determination are helping shape the province’s economic and social future.


From entrepreneurs and executives to professionals, public servants, innovators and community leaders, the initiative recognises women making a difference at every level and across every sector.


Adv. Pria Hassan, Group CEO of Women of Africa Group, believes recognising women is an investment in the future. “We invest in the power of women. The KZN Top Business Women event shines a light on the resilience, depth and character forged by the demands of womanhood. This recognition is our commitment to the future, proving that strength and grace walk hand-in-hand.”


Jennifer Reddy, CEO of Morar Incorporated, says the initiative honours the courage, determination and influence of women who continue to redefine leadership in KwaZulu-Natal and beyond.

A Platform for Recognition

Being selected as one of the 40 KZN Top Business Women 2026 provides an opportunity to build a lasting personal and professional profile while becoming part of an influential network of women leaders.


Participants receive:

·       Professional photography

·       A professionally produced video interview

·       Participation in a business-focused webinar

·       A featured profile in the official KZN Top Business Women coffee table publication

·       Extensive exposure across KZN Top Business digital and social media platforms

·       Recognition at one of KwaZulu-Natal’s premier business celebrations

 

Grant Adlam, CEO of KZN Top Business, says the initiative has become an important platform for telling the stories of the women helping to shape the province.


KZN Top Business Woman 2025: Revona Naidoo, director at LexisNexis South Africa
KZN Top Business Woman 2025: Revona Naidoo, director at LexisNexis South Africa

“Every nominee has a story worth sharing. Through KZN Top Business Women, we celebrate women whose leadership, vision and perseverance are creating meaningful change across our province.”


Make this Women’s Month count

The initiative aims to celebrate outstanding women making a meaningful contribution to business and society, inspire the next generation of leaders and showcase the diverse talent, innovation and leadership found throughout KwaZulu-Natal.


With just 40 places available, the opportunity to be part of this year's recognition is limited. Nominations are welcomed from every industry and every stage of a woman’s career or business journey – whether she leads a multinational organisation, a growing enterprise, a public institution or a community initiative.


Women may nominate themselves or be nominated by someone else. Previous participants are not eligible for re-nomination, ensuring that the initiative continues to uncover new stories, achievements and leaders. There is a cost to participate.


The recognised women will be honoured at a prestigious gala dinner on Thursday, 19 November 2026, celebrating their contribution to KwaZulu-Natal’s economic and social development.


This Women’s Month, don't let an inspiring woman’s story go unrecognised. With spaces filling up fast and only 40 women to be recognised, submit your nomination today.


For more information or to submit a nomination, visit:


For enquiries:

Angela Alderton

Tel: 066 206 5654

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