The Kouga Municipality in conjunction with Kouga Express has chosen their top five Power(ful) Woman 2022 while the winner of the competition will be announced tonight, August 25, at a gala function at The Woods near Humansdorp.
The top five
After interviews with the nominees on Tuesday, a panel of judges have chosen the top five Power(ful) Woman 2022 which includes, Githe Meret Hancke Koertzen, Bernadette Swartz, Sam Huisamen, Angie Baartman and Ziyanda Kilimani.
Pastor Angie Baartman: The 58-year-old from Humansdorp who was an adult when she completed her matric is now using her experience to inspire others to do the same. Baartman is a woman of God and has continued to go the extra mile to help others achieve their dreams.
Ziyanda Kilimani: The 25-year-old from Thornhill was 14 years old when she had her first child but was able to continue attending school and passed her matric with outstanding marks. She did not stop there and instead she went on to further her studies. To help uplift the young people in her community she established a non–profit organisation, Sisterhood, to raise awareness about teenage pregnancies. She has also established a soccer club to uplift young boys.
Githe Meret Hancke Koertzen: The 43-year-old from Jeffreys Bay is the owner of Mentors Country Estate and a professional make–up artist. She has used her experience as an entrepreneur to make a meaningful contribution to her industry. She has continued to act as an ambassador for women through her dedication, personal achievements, and service to others.
Bernadette Swartz: The 43-year-old from Jeffreys Bay started Christian Community Radio Station, Oasis FM, alongside her husband André to make a difference in the community. Apart from the great work she does at the radio station, she also started her own brand, Be Original, a company that manufactures African clothing, accessories, and curios. Through her business she also creates business opportunities for many. Swartz who has joined the Kouga Business Forum is now on the Managing Committee of the forum and leads the portfolio of Local Economic Development and Township tourism. Adding to her good work, she has also partnered with various NGOs and the municipality to train women in sewing and entrepreneurship.
Sam Huisamen: The 27-year-old from Jeffreys Bay is the owner of Smashed Professional Salon and has a dream, mission, and vision to make Kouga a better place. Apart from making her mark in the business sector, she has also been involved in various community projects.
The rest of the Top 10 are:
Leilani Coetsee
Felicity Toll
Geneva Lippert
Samanthea Prinsloo
Tiffany Maclean
