Celebrating Women in Business this Women’s Month at The Pavilion Shopping Centre
Traditionally in South Africa in August the spotlight falls on the role of courageous, strong women in society as we honour and remember the 1956 march of approximately 20,000 women to the Union Buildings in Pretoria, to petition against the country’s pass laws.
NOW, nearly seven decades later, August remains a month to champion inspirational women and to provide platforms to hear their stories of resilience, perseverance and fortitude and give guidance to the young women who follow in the footsteps of the many remarkable women who have paved the way for the generations who follow.
Over the next few weeks, The Highway Mail in partnership with the Pavilion Shopping Centre, will look at women in business, to be inspired by their successes, and learn from their challenges.
The month will culminate with two performances of an hour-long women’s month concert by the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of resident conductor, Chad Hendricks, with special guests, to be held at The Pav Fountain Court on Sunday 31 August, at 11am and 1pm. Entry is free and all are welcome.
This week we celebrate two women who are behind Classic Eyes, a store which offers products and exceptional service by people that take eye care seriously.
Nicci Wilcox has been at The Pavilion Shopping Centre since the first day it opened in October 1993, while her partner Amisha Soodyall has been at the centre for 26 years.
For Wilcox, becoming an entrepreneur was not a conscious decision.
“We were encouraged and influenced by family members who owned their own optometric businesses. Being young and daring helped us take the leap. We learnt as we went, aligned with like-minded partners, and grew from there.”
In her 32 years in business, Soodyall said she has not encountered significant bias, but is aware of the challenges many women face in business.
“I’ve made it a priority to support and uplift other women, especially in male-dominated environments. I believe representation and advocacy are key to long-term change.”
The duo’s aim to uplift other women is evident as the Classic Eyes team is predominantly female.
“The support, trust, and respect we share is powerful. My business partner Amisha and I have grown so much, both professionally and personally through our partnership. We encourage and challenge each other constantly, and that energy ripples through the rest of our team,” said Wilcox.
Asked about what impact they hope their business has on the community or on other aspiring female entrepreneurs, Soodyall said she hopes to lead by example, particularly for female optometrists.
“My goal is to inspire young women to pursue their passions confidently and to show them that it’s possible to thrive as both a healthcare professional and a business leader. I also want my business to contribute meaningfully to the community, by providing quality eye care and being a visible reminder that women can lead and make a difference.”
She added that it is incredibly important for women to support one another in business.
“I’m fortunate to work closely with Nicci – not only are we great friends and optometrists, but we also share a common goal: to provide excellent eye care in a dynamic retail space.”
Wilcox advised young women starting their own business to never be afraid to ask for help.
“Many people are willing to share their knowledge. Learn from other’s stories; their experiences are full of valuable lessons. Be brave enough to try new things. Even if something doesn’t work out, it will teach you something worthwhile for your personal and business journey,” she said.
Their proudest moment was winning the ‘Best Optometrist’ in the Best of Durban 2025.
“It has been such an amazing feeling. We are all delighted with the honour!”
(031) 265 0505 | Shop 176, The Pavilion Shopping Centre
The Pavilion Shopping Centre
Jack Martens Drive, Westville
031 275 9800
enquiries@thepav.co.za
