In a spectacular event, the winners of inaugural Standard Bank Inclusive Excellence Awards were announced at Emnotweni Arena on Thursday, April 23.

This event was hosted by Standard Bank Business and Commercial Banking (BCB).

It is dedicated to recognising and celebrating SMEs owned and led by people living with disabilities, with the purpose of supporting their growth and ensuring long-term sustainability.

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It is envisioned as a dynamic and empowering platform that unites local business owners, entrepreneurs, and organisations committed to advancing disability inclusion.

Through this initiative, Standard Bank champions inclusive economic participation by creating market access opportunities, offering business development support, and fostering meaningful networking and collaboration.

“The initiative forms part of BCB’s Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) efforts, that aim to advance inclusive entrepreneurship by supporting majority black-owned South African businesses to start and grow into sustainable entities,” said Naledzani Mosomane, head of ESD at Business and Commercial Banking, Standard Bank South Africa.

Jesta Sidell, the MEC for economic development and tourism, said these awards are significant because they shine a spotlight on a segment that is often overlooked. She said small businesses are the backbone of the economy.

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“They are the engines of innovation, the drivers of local economic activity and, most importantly, the creators of jobs. Supporting and empowering these enterprises, especially those led by persons with disabilities, is essential to building a more inclusive, dynamic and sustainable economy for all,” she explained.