The South African Council of Business Women (SACBW) Nelspruit scooped up three awards during the National SACBW Recognition Awards 2024 held at a gala event in Paarl on Saturday, October 19.

The SACBW Nelspruit won the branch of the year award, and will therefore host the AGM and the national gala event in Mbombela next year. Ashleigh Pauls of The Hive Studio won rising star of the year 2024/25, and during the local awards she also scooped up the branch rising star of the year 2024.

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Lonice Wessels of Saturn Management took home the title of the businesswoman of the year 2024, and she was also named the SACBW’s national brand ambassador 2024/25.

Wessels also won the branch businesswoman of the year award during the local awards, and she is the branch ambassador for 2025, too.

Tracy-Erin Duggan of the SACBW Nelspruit said winning the branch of the year award is a huge accomplishment.

“It is a testament to the committee and all its members’ hard work and dedication throughout the year. We strive to uplift the women in our organisation, and many of our local businesswomen have strengthened their personal and professional relationships through their involvement with the council.”

Duggan said they are proud of the winners within the SACBW Nelspruit branch.

“It shows that we have remarkable businesswomen in the Lowveld. When we host the AGM and the national gala next year, we will be able to showcase the beauty of the region. All members from around the country will come and experience what we have to offer.”

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Pauls said winning the rising star of the year award is such an honour.  “Being recognised by such inspiring women not only validates the hard work I have put in, but also reflects the growth I have experienced as an entrepreneur over the past year. It’s a moment to reflect on my journey, set new goals and believe in their potential to be achieved. What makes this even more special is that I have been recognised on both a branch and national level, which is an incredible feeling.”

Wessels said every time she sees the businesswoman of the year trophy in her office, she is in awe.

“I still can’t fully believe it, but I am humbled and honoured to have been chosen. My family is even more proud and they constantly remind me that I really deserve it, so it must be true then. I am looking forward to doing things I have never done, going places I have never been and meeting like-minded, strong businesswomen who inspire change and positivity in our country.”