Pictures: Instagram / @amandadupont @kpaparazzi_
South African actress, model and television host, Amanda du-Pont, who was awarded the Top Women Media Personality of the Year at the 20th Anniversary of the Standard Bank Top Women Awards says she believes the future of leadership and entrepreneurship lays in the delicate hands of women.
The awards, which was held on Tuesday at the prestigious Sandton Convention Centre, celebrate the voices and collective achievements of women “Rising above the Noise” to further strengthen the empowerment of future generations in the workplace in Africa.
According to a statement from Standard Bank and Topco Media, who have worked together since 2011 to bring to life this powerful platform for diverse women leaders in South Africa, the EmpowerHER series has grown into a movement for positive change, embraced by women in South Africa and across Africa.
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In an Instagram post, Du-Pont thanked Standard Bank for the honour of acknowledging her.
“I love woman, support woman. I believe the future of leadership and entrepreneurship lays in the delicate hands of woman. Doors and opportunities are now open for us dream chasers and some of the world’s best men are right behind us and supporting us taking up space in all sectors. Although some may resist change, I encourage you to push through barriers. To all Queens with a dream, there are no limits. The world is yours!” she wrote.
Speaking at the event, Tasneem Motara, Gauteng MEC for Economic Development, emphasised the power of women in driving societal transformation and called for continued efforts in addressing critical issues. “Women have the power to break free from the chains of oppression, to uplift their communities, and to drive societal transformation.” She added that success for woman has come at a huge cost, deep sacrifices, “but we do it with grace and honour”.
Sharon Taylor, Chief People and Culture Officer at Standard Bank, urged young women to carefully consider their life partners, emphasising their impact on one’s journey.
“Your choice of a life partner matters more than you know. I speak to all the young women who join the Standard Bank Graduate Programme every year about this.”
Television personality and former Miss South Africa, Basetsana Khumalo received the Top Media Icon of the Year award.
Taking to Instagram on Wednesday, Khumalo expressed what an honour it was to be bestowed this award.
“Still trying to process last night. What an honour to have been bestowed the Standard Bank Top Women Media Icon Award 2023.
“Being in the media for almost 30 years and a content producer, I have had the pleasure of working with some of the most talented individuals whom I have seen their careers grow. Even today I get to work with great creatives, brilliant minds, young dynamic stars and those include the ones in front of the screens and behind the scenes, all are stars.
“Thank you for allowing me to do what I love most, tell stories, create content that inspires, educate and entertain. This award belongs to you,” she wrote.
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