Women’s Month is characterised by special events and a welcome public holiday for most South Africans. However, the need for advocating for women in business leadership positions remain, despite these ceremonial and celebratory events.
Women occupied just 35% of CEO positions in South African mid-market businesses in 2025, despite women constituting higher proportions of other senior management roles (SNG Grant Thornton, 2025). The numbers become even more dismal when considering Chairperson (11%) and Partner (8%) positions occupied by women in business in SA.
While government has well over 40% of women in parliament and cabinet (Parliament of South Africa, 2024), this does not necessarily translate into equal access to the most influential positions of institutional power.
Women in exports in the Eastern Cape have shown exceptional leadership and for this reason a new category was introduced in Exporters Eastern Cape’s prestigious Exporter of the Year Awards. The new category, Woman-Owned/Led Small Business Award, will be for candidates who lead a 51% female-owned company involved in the export industry, with women actively involved in the management of the business, and has a turnover of less than R25-million.
SJM Flex Managing Director South Africa/ Global HR Director, Rajes Padayachie, believes women should be represented not only in the export industry, but across all sectors of the economy: “A diverse workforce brings broader perspectives, encourages innovation, and strengthens decision-making, all of which are critical in today’s competitive global markets. Women’s participation in export industries expands the available talent pool while supporting more inclusive and sustainable economic growth.”
In fact, Padayachie says international buyers and multinational organisations increasingly value diversity, equity, and inclusion within their supply chains, creating opportunities for women-owned businesses to compete globally.
“It creates opportunities for women entrepreneurs to access international markets, scale their businesses, and contribute meaningfully to global trade. I am passionate about development and education, and I believe visible female representation in export industries inspires younger generations to pursue careers in international trade and business. By empowering more women to participate and lead in exports, we unlock tremendous untapped potential and build a stronger pipeline of future leaders,” said Padayachie.
SJM Flex SA is a Gqeberha-based automotive component manufacturer specialising in the production of flexible couplings used within vehicle exhaust systems for both truck and passenger vehicles. The Korean-owned company supply high-quality components to global markets, with approximately 95% of its production being exported.
La Mohair Director and Owner Larissa Primmer said women’s representation in export industries is important because it creates opportunities for women from rural and disadvantaged communities to earn an income, develop valuable skills and support their families.
La Mohair’s product range includes knitted Kid Mohair scarves, shawls, beanies and cardigans, as well as woven mohair blankets and knee rugs.
Primmer is passionate about empowering women through employment and skills development with her company. “At La Mohair, we also support the wider community by employing temporary staff during busy periods, giving more women the opportunity to gain experience, learn new skills and become financially independent.”
Her advice to emerging exporting entrepreneurs who are women is to start with confidence, even if they do not have everything figured out yet. “Learn as much as you can about your product, your target market and the export process, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Build strong relationships with everyone, and understand that success takes time. Most importantly, believe in the value of what you have to offer.”
“My involvement with Exporters EC has given me valuable knowledge, connections and exposure to other people in the export industry in this city. The networking and support have been particularly valuable, helping me grow my confidence and strengthen my business approach to exporting,” said Primmer.
- The 2026 Exporter of the Year Awards will take place on Friday, 6 November 2026 at the Tramways. While entries have closed for the awards, bookings for tables can be made at Exporter of the Year 2026 Banquet – Booking – Exporters Eastern Cape.
By Quintin Levey, Exporters Eastern Cape Chairman
Published in The Herald, August/September 2026