Have you ever wondered how an ordinary idea becomes an industry-shaping business? South Africa’s vibrant entrepreneurial landscape is brimming with women who’ve done exactly that. From eco-friendly innovators to tech visionaries and aviation pioneers, these trailblazers haven’t just built businesses—they’ve created movements, jobs, and hope. As we look toward 2025, it’s clear that the future of entrepreneurship in South Africa is female—and it’s fierce.
But let’s not sugarcoat it—entrepreneurship in South Africa is tough terrain. With over 2 million SMEs competing in a climate where 66% of startups fail within five years, the hustle is real. Funding remains a major obstacle. Many banks shy away from startups, and investors often expect unicorn results from startups still finding their footing. Add to that a persistent skills gap, and it’s clear: surviving, let alone thriving, in this environment demands grit, innovation, and resilience.
Fortunately, that’s exactly what these women bring to the table.
Why Women Entrepreneurs Matter Now More Than Ever
There’s a noticeable shift happening across South Africa: women are reclaiming space in industries that were never built for them. Whether it’s aviation, energy, tech, or fashion, women entrepreneurs are proving they don’t just belong—they lead.
Still, female entrepreneurs often face double the struggle—limited access to funding, entrenched gender biases, and glass ceilings everywhere. And yet, these 10 phenomenal women have risen above it all. Let’s dive into their stories.
1. Sibongile Sambo – Aviation Trailblazer
When the aviation industry said “no,” Sibongile Sambo built her own runway. Literally. After being rejected as a flight attendant for not meeting height requirements, she launched SRS Aviation, the first black female-owned aviation company in South Africa.
With zero aviation experience and no funding, she sold her car, borrowed from her family, and waded through complex aviation regulations to launch her business. Today, SRS Aviation offers private charters, cargo transport, and tourism flights across Africa. More than just a CEO, Sambo is a mentor and fierce advocate for women in aviation, proving that rejection can be the beginning of your biggest breakthrough.
2. Refilwe Sebothoma – Energy for the People
As CEO of PBM Group, Refilwe Sebothoma already had business clout. But in 2022, she decided to solve a different kind of crisis—energy poverty.
Through Hakem Energies, she distributes affordable LPG boxes for safe cooking and heating in underserved communities. Her mission-driven model has earned her the 2024 Bold Future Award and changed lives in real, tangible ways. Sebothoma demonstrates that profitability and purpose aren’t mutually exclusive.
3. Mahlatse Mamaila – Biofuel Visionary
How do you turn cooking oil into gold? Just ask Mahlatse Mamaila, founder of INO Biodiesel. What started as a pivot from her accounting career became a powerful green energy movement.
Mamaila’s company produces over 40,000 liters of biodiesel per month, supplying construction and mining industries with eco-friendly fuel alternatives. But she’s not stopping there. She now collaborates with rural women to cultivate crops for oil production, expanding her supply chain and empowering communities. As winner of Visa’s She’s Next Award in 2024, Mamaila exemplifies innovation with impact.
4. Aisha Pandor – Tech Meets Social Impact
Dr. Aisha Pandor didn’t just launch a startup—she launched a movement. Her company, SweepSouth, revolutionized domestic work in South Africa by connecting households with vetted, on-demand cleaning services.
The platform not only improved service delivery but also created stable employment for thousands. Backed by R30 million in funding from Naspers Foundry and recognized by Silicon Valley’s 500 Startups, SweepSouth has scaled rapidly. Pandor is proof that tech can be both profitable and profoundly impactful.
5. Carmen Stevens – Wine Industry Pioneer
Breaking into South Africa’s elite wine industry is hard. Being the first Black woman to do it? Nearly impossible. But Carmen Stevens made it happen with Carmen Stevens Wines.
Despite massive barriers in funding and industry support, her premium wines are now exported to the U.S. and U.K., proving that excellence transcends barriers. Beyond her business success, Stevens is a beacon of hope for aspiring winemakers from disadvantaged backgrounds.
6. Margo Faith Fargo – Sustainable Lifestyle Leader
Former model Margo Faith Fargo is redefining sustainable living in Africa. Through her brand, Margo Fargo International, she’s launched two eco-focused businesses: Far-Go Straws and Grinda Coffee.
Her mission? Replace single-use plastics and elevate African coffee culture. Sourcing beans from Uganda, she’s creating premium products while promoting sustainability. Named one of the Mail & Guardian’s 200 Young South Africans in 2024, Fargo proves that beauty, brains, and business ethics can thrive in harmony.
7. Tshego Molefi – Green Industry Game-Changer
In 2017, Tshego Molefi went from journalist to eco-warrior when she co-founded Moli & Mela Group, a waste management company with a vision.
After landing the waste contract for Sun City, she expanded her team to over 150 employees. Her focus on job creation for marginalized communities has earned her the 2024 Social Impact She’s Next Award. Now she’s building a large-scale recycling facility aimed at generating another 200 jobs. Her message? Start with what you have and build from there.
8. Morongwe “Mo” Mokone – Artistic Entrepreneur
Home décor isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about storytelling. Mo Mokone, co-founder of Mo’s Crib, brings African design to life using recycled materials.
Winner of the 2024 Veuve Clicquot Bold Women Award, her company employs 100 staff and exports globally. Mokone’s journey, fueled by compassion and creativity, is a masterclass in turning art into enterprise. Her eco-conscious approach positions Mo’s Crib at the forefront of sustainable interior design.
9. Arlene Mulder – Coding a New Future
Arlene Mulder saw a problem: South Africa had a tech skills gap that left many talented young people unemployed. Her solution? WeThinkCode_, a tuition-free coding academy that has trained over 1,000 students and boasts a 91% job placement rate.
WeThinkCode_ bridges the gap between potential and opportunity by offering world-class software training to students who otherwise couldn’t afford it. Her approach is simple: build human capital, and you build the economy. Her recognition includes the Forbes Woman Africa Technology & Innovation Award—well deserved for someone helping shape Africa’s digital future.
10. Tebogo Petlele – Heritage in Headwraps
Inspired by culture and driven by purpose, Tebogo Petlele founded Seponono Africa, a brand celebrating the African “doek” or headwrap.
What started as a passion project has become a sought-after label with clients like the World Economic Forum and Standard Bank. Petlele’s impact extends beyond fashion; she’s an advocate for empowerment, identity, and entrepreneurship. A top-10 finalist at Grindstone 2023, her business is a cultural celebration wrapped in enterprise.
Key Lessons from South Africa’s Leading Women in Business
1. Persistence Beats Resistance
Whether it’s Sambo in aviation or Mamaila in energy, the recurring theme is relentless determination. Setbacks are just setups for greater comebacks.
2. Start with What You Have
Most of these women didn’t begin with big budgets or deep connections. They bootstrapped, borrowed, learned, and kept going.
3. Community is Key
From Fargo’s partnerships to Molefi’s job creation efforts, successful entrepreneurs invest in the people around them. They don’t just build businesses—they build ecosystems.
4. Solve Real Problems
Great businesses start by addressing real, everyday issues. Whether it’s clean energy, waste, or access to jobs—these entrepreneurs start with the people in mind.
5. Education and Mentorship Matter
Whether it’s through platforms like WeThinkCode_ or informal mentorship, learning is at the heart of sustainable growth. These women never stop evolving.
Final Thoughts
Entrepreneurship in South Africa isn’t just about making money—it’s about making history. These 10 women are breaking ceilings, solving big problems, and shaping the country’s future in industries from aviation to agriculture, fashion to fuel.
As 2025 unfolds, their stories will continue to inspire new waves of entrepreneurs—especially women—who refuse to be defined by limits. The message is clear: with vision, resilience, and community, anything is possible.
So if you’re sitting on a big idea, let these women be your blueprint. South Africa’s next success story could be yours.
Read more: South Africa’s Top 10 Most Influential Male Entrepreneurs to Watch in 2025
