CHAMPIONS OF EXCELLENCE WIN SA PREMIER BUSINESS AWARDS

CHAMPIONS OF EXCELLENCE WIN SA PREMIER BUSINESS AWARDS

Historically, South Africa’s small entrepreneurial businesses have had to rise against considerable adversities, battling against odds for ultimate success. According to the honourable Minister of Trade and Industry, Dr Rob Davies; “As government we are trying to ease these burdens, to offer greater support to Black businesses.”

To celebrate the businesses that are achieving despite the challenges they face, the Department of Trade and Industry (thedti) hosted the third annual South African Premier Business Awards, in partnerships with Proudly South African and Brand South Africa. “We are seeking to create an environment that recognises and celebrates those individuals and businesses that have performed beyond exception,” said Minister Davies.

Proudly SA’s Chief Executive Officer, Advocate Leslie Sedibe, commended the entrepreneurs that took a leap of faith by entering the Awards. “Entrepreneurs and small medium enterprises are the key to growth and the development of sustainable employment opportunities in South Africa. The more emphasis is placed on the achievements within this sector, the greater the growth will be.” 

The Awards are sponsored by Absa, the Gordon Institute of Business Science and Tsogo Sun and aim to recognise business excellence and honour enterprises that promote the spirit of success and innovation. A black tie Awards ceremony was held on Thursday, 09 April 2015 at the Ballroom, Sandton Convention Centre. Finalists were selected from a large pool of entrants, based on the enterprises’ propensities for job creation, good business ethics and a dedication to quality.  

The 2014/15 Award winners were; Dr Anna Mokgokong (Lifetime Achievement), Hazleton Pumps International (Manufacturer), Canvas and Tent (Exporter), Ekurhuleni Artisans & Skills Training Centre (Women-Owned Business), DNA Brand Architects (Young Entrepreneur), CCI Call Centres (Investor of the Year), Little Green Number (Proudly South African Enterprise), Access Advertising (Play Your Part) and Hazleton Pumps International (SMME).

“We are exceedingly proud of the level of entries received, the calibre of the finalists and the achievements of the winners,” said Brand South Africa’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, Alice Puoane. “Encouraging reverie of the accomplishments of South African small businesses will facilitate mutual support, a greater spirit of community and a stronger national economy.”

Recognising businesses that foster excellence and supporting them in achieving such esteem, is essential to the growth of the country’s economy. “Congratulations to the winners; we applaud those that stayed the course and rose above all the challenges faced. Thank you for providing an example for other enterprises to look up to when they face adversity,” concludes Minister Davies.