BUSINESS NEWS - Business Partners Limited hosted an inspiring event for women entrepreneurs at the Hawthorn Boutique Hotel in George on Wednesday 17 September, as a celebration of the achievements and impact of women in business.
Regional investment manager René Botha gave an interesting talk around the theme 'The evolution of female entrepreneurship'.
She said the company annually assists about 280 businesses with more than R1b in loan funding, and as a result facilitates an average of 12 000 jobs. The growth in the number of female entrepreneurs being assisted is a reflection of what is happening in the business sector worldwide. Although females are still outnumbered by male entrepreneurs, the scene is changing.
Twenty years ago, 32% of Business Partners' loans to businesses was to female entrepreneurs. This has increased to 44% in the last book year, and it is expected to keep on rising.
The change in management at Business Partners is also reflecting the trend of women increasingly gaining ground, with women in senior management increasing from two in 2015 to the current five, and in middle management from 32 to 44.
Botha said women are often held back by a fear of failure in a male-dominated environment.
She started as the first operational leader in the company in 1981. "To this day, one of my biggest fears is that I won't make it, and because of that, I will let down other female leaders in business, and also my female colleagues."
But mistakes have to be made to learn from, she said. "Don't be fearful. Take those opportunities."
Jolandi Salomons of Qualifin Consultants and Adelé van Reenen of Tavcor VW George enjoyed the presentation.
Botha said women's unique approach of relating to other people enables them to build more sustainable long-term relationships, which gives them an advantage.
Botha encouraged the women to share their experiences as entrepreneurs so as to inspire others.
Business Partners representatives Henry Grobler (regional manager), René Botha (regional investment manager), Comien Grobler (marketing manager) and Anèl Meyer (investment officer), and a client of theirs, Candice Mahuza of CB Orion Enterprises.
"Even if you think your business is small, it might be an inspiration to one other person. Develop female leaders in your business, in your small business as well, so that they can become the leaders of the future. And support more female businesses in your local environment and tell others about them."
She also gave an overview of how to access funding and advisory support to help female entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses.
The Hawthorn Boutique Hotel was the venue for the presentation.
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