The 11th annual Santam Women of the Future Awards were announced on Friday evening, honouring four exceptional women who are reshaping South Africa’s business landscape.
These awards are annually held to honour exceptional women who have demonstrated innovation, vision, resilience, leadership and commitment to social change in their respective fields.
Following an extensive interview and judging process, the winners were selected by a distinguished panel of judges, including Professor Thuli Madonsela (Director of the Centre for Social Justice in the Faculty of Law and a professor of law occupying the Law Trust Research Chair in Social Justice at Stellenbosch University), Norah Sehunoe (Santam Acting Chief Operation Officer), Dawn Nathan-Jones (business leader, social entrepreneur and CEO of Over the Rainbow), Boitumelo Ntsoane (Managing Director of On Point Healthcare and 2015 Woman of the Future), Suzy Brokensha (editor Fairlady) and Mbali Soga (editor Truelove).
Meet the 2025 winners
Shannon Dougall claims top prize with SKIN functional
The coveted Woman of the Future Award went to Shannon Dougall, founder of SKIN functional, a data-driven skincare brand born from her personal struggle with skin challenges. Through rigorous cosmetic science, Shannon has built a transparent, results-focused company that’s now eyeing global expansion.
“Winning this award proves that anything is possible with hard work and determination,” Shannon reflected. “It gives me a platform to inspire women to believe in themselves and never give up on their dreams.”
Caroline Peters: Double winner making waves
Caroline Peters of the Callas Foundation made history by taking home both the Social Entrepreneur Award and the Readers’ Choice Award. As a survivor of gender-based violence, Caroline has transformed her trauma into purpose, creating a feminist organisation that supports justice system navigation, mentors young men in gender equity, and builds food security through community kitchens.
“This recognition brings visibility to grassroots feminist leadership,” Caroline explained. “It highlights how community-led models can tackle South Africa’s most pressing social challenges.”
Rising star turns tragedy into triumph
Xolile Mabuza, founder of Tendalo Trading, captured the Rising Star Award with her inspiring journey of resilience. After surviving a stroke that forced her to relearn basic skills, Xolile began creating bags from discarded rubber materials. Her sustainable brand now recycles hundreds of tubes monthly and is building its own factory.
“This win solidifies my foundation for growth and gives other young women something to believe in,” Xolile shared.
Industry recognition and new honour
For the first time in the awards’ history, organisers introduced the Santam Icon Award, recognising Dr Dulcy Rakumakoe of Quadcare healthcare services. The 2020 Woman of the Future winner continues to advocate for affordable healthcare and LGBTQ+ community rights.
Santam’s research shows that the first 1 000 days are crucial for any business. Those who survive this critical period are typically in it for the long haul – a milestone these winners have either surpassed or are confidently approaching.
“At Santam, we’re committed to moving beyond inclusion as a concept,” explained Norah Sehunoe. “We want to embed it as reality, where women own the tools, opportunities, and platforms to lead.”
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