Barloworld empowers women entrepreneurs through initiatives like Siyakhula and Mbewu, driving sustainable development and community growth.
Bonisile Fortunate Shongwe, Managing Director of Lamatsamo Holdings (60 Sec)
Bonisile scaled her business with Siyakhula’s funding, increasing turnover and employing more people. Her success enables her to support a nonprofit focused on community development, fulfilling her passion for helping others.
Nopasika Lila, Group Financial Director at Barloworld (60 Sec)
Nopasika emphasizes Barloworld’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. With 50% women in leadership and significant representation of black women, Barloworld tracks progress through measurable KPIs, ensuring transformation and societal contribution.
Ntlotleng Manale, Founder & Chief Visionary of Black Empire Farms (60 Sec)
Ntlotleng saw potential in her family’s dormant land. With Mbewu’s support, she installed a borehole and irrigation, increasing productivity. Her farm now provides employment and has expanded significantly, impacting many lives positively.
Tshiamo Molatedi, CA Trainee at Barloworld (30 Sec)
Tshiamo, a first-year CA trainee, appreciates Barloworld’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. The supportive environment and female managers inspire her to achieve her career goals, believing she can reach top leadership positions.
Awande Khumalo, Finance Intern at Lamatsamo Holdings (30 Sec)
As a finance intern, Awande helps combat unemployment and skill gaps. Bonisile Shongwe’s leadership at Lamatsamo has enabled community improvements, including service delivery, education, and new business ventures, significantly impacting the local community.
Bridget Metswamere, Managing Director of Bridgemas Trading & Projects (45 Sec)
Bridget faced numerous challenges with old trucks breaking down. Through Siyakhula, she received a new truck and trailer, boosting her revenue. This support has enabled her to envision further growth and expansion for her transport services business.
Corporate Overview
Barloworld is committed to empowering women and promoting gender equality through initiatives that support women-owned businesses. Key to this mission are the Siyakhula and Mbewu programs, which uplift women entrepreneurs.
The company’s dedication to gender diversity is evident in its leadership structure and corporate culture. Barloworld boasts an executive committee with equal representation of men and women, and a significant portion of its top management positions are held by black women. This inclusivity is further reinforced by initiatives like “The Table is Big Enough,” which ensures that all voices within the organization are heard and valued.
Through the Siyakhula program, Barloworld provides vital support to established businesses seeking growth. This initiative offers financial assistance, such as loans and grants, along with essential resources like training and equipment.
The Mbewu program, named after the word for “seed,” focuses on nurturing startups from their inception. By providing essential resources and support, Mbewu helps budding entrepreneurs transform their ideas into viable businesses.
Barloworld’s Siyakhula and Mbewu programs highlight their commitment to sustainable development and women’s empowerment. These programs help women entrepreneurs overcome challenges, grow their businesses, and positively impact their communities.
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