During September 2007, three South African businesswomen were awarded for intrepidly exploring the entrepreneurial world by The Leading Women EntrepreneursTM, a U.S. based non-profit organization that raises the visibility of successful entrepreneurial women and increases public awareness of women entrepreneurs' contributions to the global economy.
Their Business Forum was presented at the University of Pretoria, marking the conclusion of the week-long LWEW Celebratory Event held in Cape Town, Sun City and Pretoria, South Africa. Three Business Development Grants, totalling US $15,000, was awarded to South African businesswomen on September 14, 2007.
The first place grant was awarded to Elmari Swart M.Sc. owner of Cheviot Publishing. Additional grants went to Linda Wilson owner of The Crazy Potter, Pots by Linda Wilson and Mary Gichohi, Abigail Mangane, Rejoice Mboweni owners of Braids Exclusive.
"It is an honor to be able to provide strong support to such deserving candidates", said Cheryl Womack, Chairperson of the LWEW. "Each of these women has worked so hard and has already achieved so much but are still reaching to 'Take the Next Step' in today's challenging business world. It is so rewarding to lead an organization that not only inspires women to strive for accomplishment, but also provides the monetary means to help them achieve their dreams."
Elmari Swart M.Sc. is the owner of Cheviot Publishing, a boutique publishing house specialising in researching, writing, and producing books on niche subjects, located in Cape Town. Cheviot Publihsing also produce custom books for clients. "It was truly a great honour and blessing to be in the company of so many unique, highly successful and inspiring women," said Elmari. Her first book, The Essential Guide to South African Wines, won the category Best Book on New World Wines at the 2007 Gourmand International Awards in Europe. In taking her companies' motto 'the essence of local knowledge' to heart, Elmari's next book will be focused on the wedding industry, in particular destination weddings in South Africa.
Each recipient was subjected to a rigorous judging process, detailing their company's services, identifying key competitors and highlighting their unique selling points in a comprehensive business plan. Furthermore, it had to prove business activities for more than three years, at least one year being profitable and the applicant must own a majority of the business. Finally, financial documentation, verification of meeting all legal and tax obligations, and various professional recommendations were scrutinised. The meticulous judging process for the winners extends to their continued business activities, requiring full reportage annually for the following three years – ensuring that they truly are viable businesses.
Elmari Swart (Cheviot Publishing) with the council of Leading Women at the AGM 2007
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