Nomination earns Brits peer recognition

Kempton Park resident Cindy Brits has been nominated for entrepreneur of the year by the Woman of Stature Awards.

Brits, the founder of the NPO the Dazzle Foundation, has empowered women in business and promoted community upliftment since establishing the organisation in 2013.

“I am truly honoured and excited about this nomination. My values, my company’s values and the values of Woman of Stature align perfectly.

ALSO READ: Foundation hosts annual matric awards in Thembisa

“This platform will allow me to reach more people and make a greater impact,” said Brits.

Her journey began in 2013 when she was crowned Mrs Tshwane. One of her key projects was building a pre-primary school in a disadvantaged community.

“My first visit to the Samaritan House was life-changing. I knew I had to take action and make a difference,” she recalled.

Since then, the NPO has built classrooms, provided educational aid and appointed teachers. Brits still visits the school regularly, offering emotional support and guidance to the children.

The Woman of Stature Foundation empowers female entrepreneurs through its Woman Rise Programme.

As a nominee, Brits gets to raise money for her foundation, with the highest fundraiser receiving the fundraiser of the year award.

ALSO READ: Players reflect landmark season at awards

The public choice award allows supporters to vote for their favourite nominee. While the award does not influence category winners, it gives the nominees valuable exposure.

Brits’ friend and colleague, Susan Weston, was nominated her last year.

“We initially considered the woman in the community category but decided on the entrepreneur of the year instead,” she said.

Brits underwent a rigorous vetting process after her nomination, proving her business success and leadership. Out of over 700 nominees, she was among the 134 women selected as official nominees.

“I was vetted and accepted. It was an incredible moment,” she said.

Brits has over 26 years of experience as an entrepreneur and is the director of RE/MAX Dazzle. In 2004, she began her real estate career as an intern agent and worked her way up to team leader and director.

ALSO READ: Players reflect landmark season at awards

Under her leadership, RE/MAX Dazzle has received many local and international awards, including:
• Most transactions worldwide;
• Largest office worldwide; and
• Top single office for 10 consecutive years.

The company has expanded its presence to Benoni and Boksburg, with over 200 agents and support staff.

Brits’ next goal is to take RE/MAX Dazzle to even greater heights while continuing to empower women in business.

“I want to share my journey, insights and expertise to inspire and support others.

“My ultimate goal is to write a book about my experiences as a young entrepreneur and share my story,” she added.

ALSO READ: Local gymnast shines at the Gauteng Sport Awards

On March 26, Brits will be the keynote speaker at an event titled Women Entrepreneur: A Personal and Inspiring Journey, where she will share her story of overcoming challenges and achieving success.

The Woman of Stature South African Awards gala evening is on April 12 at the Indaba Hotel.

Brits encourages women to support and uplift one another, “Invite the right people to join you at your table, like-minded women who will empower and uplift you. Be kind, reach out to your communities and help where you can. It’s not always about money; quality time goes a long way.”