Businesswoman Andél Greyling from Makhado (Louis Trichardt) scooped up the South African Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SACCI) Businesswoman of the Year award, while another well-known local businesswoman, Louise Smit, was nominated as runner-up.

Both women were honoured during SACCI’s gala event hosted at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand last Thursday. More than 700 guests attended the event, with South African President Jacob Zuma as the guest of honour.

The award is designed to reward a special businesswoman who has shown integrity, creativity, a deep understanding of business, decisiveness and an inspirational and entrepreneurial spirit. All the nominees for the award were chosen from 53 SACCI affiliated chambers.

Smit and Greyling were two of the Soutpansberg Chamber of Commerce’s five local nominees. 

Greyling, who described herself as an outgoing and friendly person, has been the co-owner of Anhetico Properties since 2005. Honesty and sound ethics, she said, are crucial in any business. Greyling is also involved in various community projects and organisations.

Smit have been the owner of Salon Lu-iz, a hair salon, which has developed over time to also include other beauty treatment services. 

Chairperson of the Soutpansberg Chamber of Commerce Ms Lize Strauss, who also attended the gala evening, congratulated the two winners.

“We are very proud of them both,” she said. “It is the first time that our chamber participated and we are delighted to have two of our own as winner and runner-up.”

After the award ceremony, Strauss also thanked all their sponsors who lent a helping hand and made it possible for them to participate in the award ceremony. They were the main sponsor, M Premjee & Sons, Beauty Corner @ Salon Lu-iz – Tips & Toes, Gateway Inn Guest House, Link Pharmacy (Rex Hlaminga), Northern Recruiting, Pest Control Specialists and Phafuri River Camp. She also appealed to other businesses in the Soutpansberg area to become members of the chamber.