"We were planning to have only five finalists, but because of the excellent calibre of the entries, we had to increase that number to nine," says editor Suzy Brokensha. "South African women should be proud: every single one of these finalists is world-class."
The search, which called for entries from South African female entrepreneurs who have created successful businesses, saw an array of smart business ideas and women with the drive and commitment to bring those ideas to fruition. "South Africans are so entrepreneurial. These women are not only empowering themselves, but also people around them. They're a real asset to the country."
Finalists
Rising Star 2015 finalists
Judges
The panel of judges include Public Protector Thuli Madonsela; Santam executive head of Brand, Yegs Ramiah; former PA to Nelson Mandela, author and motivational speaker Zelda La Grange; television presenter, MC and businesswoman Gerry Rantseli Elsdon and Suzy Brokensha.