EmpowHer KZN programme

EmpowHER: Creatingaccess to markets for entrepreneurs.

26 JUNE 2025

KWAZULU-NATAL

The Capital Zimbali Resort

EMPOW HER

The EmpowHER Development Series is aimed at building communities and creating access to networks for entrepreneurs.

Travelling across provinces, 10 pre-selected entrepreneurs pitch their promising business models to a well rounded panel of high level thought leaders and business experts in the form of a 3-minute elevator

pitch followed by an interactive 5-minute Q&A where participants receive feedback on how to successfully grow their businesses into market leaders.

The winners from all the regions are then entered into the annual Standard Bank Top Women Awards and 1 Winner walks home with the trophy and a R50 000 cash prize. n

“It has been an incredibly good event. It is very professional. Each speaker has added so much value.

What I love the most is it has been a really relaxed environment, beautiful decor, gorgeous entertainment and food but most importantly it is the vibe with the women, you can sense the joy and excitement in the room.”

Cindy Norcott CEO of ProTalent EmpowHER Speaker

CONTENTS Table of

Welcome to the official Standard Bank Top Women EmpowHER Conference 2025.

Welcome

An Introduction by the CEO of Topco Media, Ralf Fletcher

13. Speakers

Have a look at the speakers lined up for the day.

17. Judges

Have a look at our esteemed panel of judges.

10.

Schedule

A brief breakdown of the events of the day.

14. Finalists

Meet the finalists of this year’s Standard Bank Top Women EmpowHER Conference.

18.

WELCOME Organisers

Ralf Fletcher | CEO, Topco Media

Dear EmpowHER Delegates, Welcome to the Standard Bank Top Women EmpowHER Conference 2025. This is a powerful gathering of purpose-driven women entrepreneurs, leaders, and changemakers and we are excited to have you join us.

At Topco Media, we recognise that the journey for women in business is often defined not by a lack of vision or capability, but by systemic barriers such as limited access to markets, networks, and capital. This conference was created to actively address those gaps, offering a dynamic platform where female entrepreneurs can connect, be inspired, and take tangible steps toward growth and success.

We know that starting and scaling a business takes courage – and even more so when access to value chains and opportunity is uneven. That’s why, in partnership with Standard Bank – a champion for women on the rise – we are committed to building an inclusive ecosystem that equips and empowers women to reach their “next.”

A major highlight of today’s programme is the EmpowHER Pitching Den, where 10 visionary entrepreneurs will deliver 3-minute pitches showcasing their innovative business models. These participants will receive real-time feedback from a panel of industry experts, focusing on investment readiness, access to new markets, customer acquisition, and sustainable growth. The winning entrepreneur of each province will attend the 22nd Annual Standard Bank Top Women Awards in Johannesburg in December, where one will be named the EmpowHER Entrepreneur of Year 2025 and win a R50,000 cash prize. We invite you to make the most of this experience by engaging in high-impact conversations with like-minded peers and take in the knowledge and insights that can influence and accelerate your entrepreneurial journey.

We are honoured to have you with us as part of this movement. Together, let’s break boundaries, ignite collaboration, and drive meaningful change for women-led businesses across the

Here’s to a day of learning, connection, and elevation. Warm regards,