There’s no doubt that societal progress has been made towards gender equality in recent years, with opportunities for women creatives to build their profiles on and offline being made more accessible. This has given women opportunities to showcase their unique voices, break into various industries, and make monumental contributions.
But, building a successful career as a woman – however, we each define that – still requires countless moments of decision-making, risk-taking, priority-weighing, boundary-breaking, and resilience.
In the spirit of national Women’s Day, we are spotlighting women who are taking up space in their respective industries from beauty to entertainment.
Tyla
Following the release of her record-breaking single, ‘Water’, Tyla’s winning streak has been one for the books! From bagging a Grammy award at the age of 22 to joining the long list of legendary musicians such as Madonna and Missy Elliot as an ambassador for acclaimed fashion brand GAP, Tyla’s rise to superstardom has been meteoric.
The South African singing sensation is set to drop her debut album this year, which already has the global community waiting in great anticipation. Furthermore, Tyla recently unleashed a merch collection comprising t-shirts, caps, and vinyl records which we will definitely be purchasing!
Shudufhadzo Musida
Miss South Africa 2020 and published author Shudufhadzo Musida is the epitome of an “It Girl.” From serving the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) as Regional Champion for East and Southern Africa to launching her inclusive swimwear collection ‘Imbe’, the model has made remarkable strides in her activism journey.
Since her rise to fame, the “I Am Shudu” children’s book author has been unwavering in her advocacy for mental health wellness. Moreover, her charitable contribution towards social justice bagged her a Glamour magazine recognition, as the “Glamour Woman of the Year 2022” (WOTY) in the Mental Health Gamechanger category.
Rabia Ghoor
Beauty products have the power to transform our confidence and no one understands this better than beauty entrepreneur and Swiitch Beauty founder, Rabia Ghoor.
A boss babe at heart, Rabia founded her brainchild at just 14 years old! Today, Swiitchbeauty is one of the leading local cosmetic brands in South Africa, and with good reason. Their products offer great quality at affordable prices and you’re honestly spoilt for choice. The cosmetics company has expanded its horizons over the years, going from a skin care brand to offering diverse makeup products.
Mogau Seshoene
Acclaimed chef Mogau Seshoene, popularly known as the Lazy Makoti has stolen the hearts of many culinary enthusiasts across Mzansi. Founded by the professional cook in 2014, the Lazy Makoti The Lazy Makoti is a food solutions company based in South Africa that offers cooking lessons, bespoke catering, and recipe development.
Currently in her early 30s, the young entrepreneur has achieved fame, fortune, and success, winning various awards and prizes, and brushed shoulders with who’s who in society including Oprah Winfrey and Barack Obama. Moreover, Mogau has released a series of cookbooks that are widely loved by South Africans.
DBN Gogo
Born in Durban and raised in Pretoria, international DJ, DBN Gogo gained local attention following the release of her debut single “Khuza Gogo”, which was certified platinum in South Africa. Since her debut, the muso has performed and wowed crowds on stages such as Afronation and released a slew of Amapiano hits including ‘Possible’ featuring Musa Keys.
An all-rounder, DBN Gogo is also the founder of major record label, ‘Zikode Records.’ In 2023, the multi-hyphenate artist hosted the ‘Kwa Gogo’ festival which was well received by music lovers across Mzansi.
Cyla Gonsolves
Designing from a studio on her farm and assisted by a team in Cape Town, leading-edge fashion designer Cyla Gonsolves is passionate about incorporating ethical fashion practice, in particular female empowerment, at every step in her supply chain, to produce her signature elegant, casual clothing with a hand-crafted twist.
The fashion designer was crowned as the South African Fashion Week (SAFW) “New Talent Search Competition” victor for her awe-inspiring collection dubbed ‘No Waste In Wonderland’ in 2023. As a result, the designer bagged a groundbreaking collaboration with retail giant, Mr Price comprising whimsy, fun, and contemporary designs.
Kay Yarms
Beauty entrepreneur and content creator Kay Yarms is indisputably one of the most influential social media personalities in Mzansi. From recommending DAWN lotion to her subscribers to the point of it being out of stock in select stores to encouraging the youth to register to vote, Kay is thee definition of an influencer.
Earlier this year, the Forbes 30 Under 30 recipient launched her makeup imprint with Mr Price’s Scarlet Hill, which unsurprisingly – was sold out online just a few hours after being available for purchase.
Karabo Poppy
Creative illustrator, street artist, and graphic designer Karabo Poppy Moletsane needs no introduction. From a ground-breaking, futuristic collaboration with Nike to illustrating the International Women’s Day Google doodle, the Johannesburg-based creative genius has earned her stripes.
Multifaceted, Karabo Poppy has won three Loerie Awards throughout her illustrious career. Her work has been recognized as part of a Grammy-nominated music video for “Makeba” by French singer and artist Jain.