During an exclusive ceremony held at Jacaranda FM’s studios, the Top 10 finalists were each awarded R100 000 in Jacaranda FM airtime, part of a larger R2-million advertising package, according to the station.

Deirdre King, Managing Director at Jacaranda FM, says, "Each of these finalists has earned their spot. With a listener base of 1.3 million on Jacaranda FM, these women will be exposed to unmatched opportunities to grow their businesses."

Taking home the Grand prize is Retang Phaahla of Setsong Tea Crafters, a social enterprise dedicated to producing premium indigenous tea in partnership with the communities of Ga Phaahla village and Ga Matlala Ramoshebo. Phaahla's journey began with her mother and elder women from Sekhukhune, who discovered the health benefits of the indigenous tea they had long consumed, says the station.

Today, Setsong Tea Crafters is a thriving business that supplies its distinctive teas to top retailers in South Africa and abroad, says the station.

As the grand prize winner, Setsong Tea Crafters will receive:

  • R500 000 worth of advertising on Jacaranda FM
  • a custom-produced radio advert with digital amplification on Jacaranda FM platforms
  • a six-week mentorship program with mentorship opportunities from Jacaranda FM and SPAR senior leaders
  • tailor-made business model development, and
  • consultations on research, branding, digital strategies and PR.

"The mentorship is what I'm most excited about. This prize means sustainability and job creation, as well as exposure of indigenous knowledge systems that were previous looked down on and look past — my forefathers are getting recognition, and I'm fulfilling their dream. I’m so excited to build the rural economy and industrialise indigenous knowledge systems," says Phaalha.

Celebrating Second Place: Hakem Energies and Sun Diverse Group

Two exceptional entrepreneurs, Refilwe Sebothoma of Hakem Energies and Mmatsatsi Rampa of Sun Diverse Group, tied for second place, according to the station. 

Hakem Energies is committed to creating sustainable and secure energy solutions, developing supply-chain networks to make energy more accessible across South Africa. Sun Diverse Group, a 100% black female-owned company, specialising in manufacturing a range of textured paints and coatings, including Gamazine, Granite coating and Glamour Coat Paint.

Both companies impressed the judges with their innovation and potential to make a significant impact in their respective industries, the station says. 

"Assisting women entrepreneurs scale their businesses and ultimately their contribution to the economy is something we are immensely proud of at Jacaranda FM. Corporates have such scope to invest in small businesses — #HerPerfectPitch is an excellent example of how to do that in a creative and sustainable way," adds King.

The Journey of #HerPerfectPitch2024

The #HerPerfectPitch2024 competition saw an overwhelming response, with a panel of experts meticulously evaluating countless submissions to identify the Top 30 women entrepreneurs, according to the station.

These finalists were treated to a special networking breakfast, where they received valuable business insights and advice. From this talented group, the Top 10 were selected to pitch their business models live at Jacaranda FM studios.

In a "Shark Tank"-style format, the Top 10 entrepreneurs showcased their strategic thinking and the positive impact their businesses have on their communities. Each pitch was met with probing questions, immediate feedback and invaluable mentoring to help refine their visions, the station says.

King says, "When one woman's business thrives, it creates a ripple effect, providing employment opportunities and addressing youth unemployment. #HerPerfectPitch isn’t just about honing pitches; it’s about celebrating innovation, growth, and the transformative power of women entrepreneurs."

"A massive congratulations from SPAR to the amazing winners of Her Perfect Pitch! These women wowed us with their brilliant ideas and unstoppable energy, and this competition perfectly captures SPAR’s passion for empowering women and fuelling their economic success. We're beyond excited to watch their dreams grow into thriving businesses. And trust us — this is just the beginning! SPAR is all in when it comes to supporting women on their journey," says Mpudi Maubane, National PR, Communications and Sponsorships Manager of SPAR GROUP LTD.

With the conclusion of the 2024 competition, these remarkable entrepreneurs are poised to make a lasting impact on South Africa’s economy and inspire the next generation of women business leaders, the station concludes. 

For more information, visit www.jacarandafm.com. You can also follow Jacaranda FM on Facebook, X, Instagram, or on TikTok. 

*Image courtesy of contributor