The awards recognises the performance of the businesses in the Shanduka Black Umbrellas (SBU) enterprise and supplier development incubation programme.
The underground mine cleaning company was named the Overall National Winner for 2015 in addition to being awarded top honours in the Most Jobs Created category. The owner, Tommy Maboe's entrepreneurial journey began seven years ago and today the company employs 264 people and has a multi-million rand turnover. Three years ago, Phakwe Mining Services was invited to partner with one of Lonmin's suppliers to enable them to be BEE compliant.
"It has not been an easy journey to walk. When we started it felt like we were constantly climbing a never ending summit. However, there is light at the end of the tunnel and I am truly grateful to have embarked on this trajectory with Shanduka Black Umbrellas, who have been an amazing mentor, partner and friend," said Maboe.
Other winners on the evening were Modi Mining from Mooinooi, who received the Best Performing Company award, while the Best SBU Ambassador award went to Keboithletse Supplies from Johannesburg. Gebhuza Security from Durban took the inaugural People's Choice award following a public voting process. The winner of the Incubator of the Year award went to Mooinooi, led by regional manager, Precious Tshabalala.
"South Africa is ripe with potential and tonight is affirmation of what we can achieve if we all pull together. Our heartfelt congratulations are extended to all the winners and finalists. We hope that their achievements will inspire the over 300 businesses in our incubators and entrepreneurs across the country," said Mark Frankel, outgoing CEO of SBU.
