Women Entrepreneurs Shine at the 11th Manufacturing Indaba
By Thulane Madalane
Sandton: In an inspiring display of entrepreneurship and innovation, two women-led enterprises from the Nkangala District made their mark at the 11th Manufacturing Indaba held at the Sandton Convention Centre in Gauteng from October 22 to 23, 2024. Bikoland Creations, hailing from Two Line Village, and Exclusives and Décor By Lerato from Siyabuswa were selected to showcase their products among numerous competitors, highlighting the strength and potential of women in business.
The Manufacturing Indaba serves as a significant platform for industry stakeholders, allowing them to engage in dialogue about South Africa’s economic future and the impending 5th Industrial Revolution. Spanning two days, the event drew together various attendees and exhibitors, facilitating valuable connections in B2B (Business to Business) and B2C (Business to Customer) spheres.
Lerato Maja, the director of Exclusives and Décor By Lerato, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to showcase her candle manufacturing business. “The exposure my company gained at the Indaba was surprising,” she noted, emphasizing the positive feedback from customers and visitors. “It validated my vision and assured me that there is hope to grow my business and reach the global market as part of our growth plan.”
Sista Molebogeng Miyene, the director of Bikoland Creations, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the impact of the Indaba on her brand’s visibility. “The Manufacturing Indaba has propelled my brand to untapped markets around Johannesburg,” she shared. “Our cannabis products received interest from Ghana and Lesotho, with many visitors curious about the health and wellness benefits of cannabis.” Molebogeng also underscored the importance of networking, stating, “I enjoyed connecting with other exhibitors interested in conducting B2B partnerships and exploring online marketplaces to expand my product’s reach beyond traditional sales platforms.”
Both entrepreneurs expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the Mpumalanga Premier’s Office and the Women Empowerment and Entrepreneurship Program (WEEP) hosted in the Office of the Presidency for the opportunity to be part of this prestigious event. They assured that upon returning home, they would share their experiences and the opportunities available to their respective business structures, inspiring others to embrace innovation and entrepreneurship.
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