Female-owned Businesses That Should Be On Your Radar
Beyoncé had the right idea when she sang, ‘Who run the world… girls’ – but in this case, we’re talking womxn. We’ve come up with a list of female-owned businesses that should be on your radar, not just for Women’s Month, but all year round! You might be familiar with some of these brands, while others have just stepped onto the entrepreneurial scene – either way, they can take all of our coins.
Women in Food
Eat your heart out! These female powerhouses are shaking up South Africa’s culinary scene.
Cream of the Crop Micro Dairy


Having grown up on a biodynamic farm and selling her family’s fresh produce at weekend markets, Maria van Zyl developed a passion for farming at a young age, which eventually led to her starting her very own agricultural and artisanal business, Cream of the Crop.
The micro-dairy supplies small-batch artisanal butter, labneh, halloumi and yoghurt. They currently produce this and more from five grass-fed Jersey cows at the family’s Piket Bo-Berg farm, where they also offer cheese-making workshops. Maria is focused on creating a sustainable offering with a Committed Value Chain programme, to foster better transparency between farmers and customers.
mondvol™
Launching a business might feel like you’re biting more than you can chew, or it could lead to a ‘mouthful’ of possibilities. At least, that was Andriette de la Harpe’s experience when she started mondvol™ with nothing but her Ouma’s Kenwood mixer and love for baking.
With her blind belief and talent, Andriette not only became a MasterChef SA runner-up contestant, but eventually created a female-owned and run business that sells the most delicious cookies and cakes nationwide. This sweet shop also runs cake workshops, a Cookie Club for biscuit lovers, and the best seasonal treats.
mondvol.co | Facebook | Instagram
Post & Pepper
Post & Pepper is a fun-dining restaurant that’s become a favourite for many. Having worked in some of the country’s best fine dining kitchens, Jess van Dyk figured it was high time she started her own establishment. One yacht cheffing gig, food photography stint and pandemic later, her vision finally came to life.
Located in the (now revamped) old Stellenbosch post office, the restaurant has a casual yet sophisticated appeal. Inspired by childhood food memories and influenced by chef Jess’ favourite dishes, the menu features approachable yet elevated cuisine. If you love fancy Mac ‘n Cheese or appreciate delicious food, Post & Pepper is where it’s at!
postandpepper.co.za | Instagram
INDIKAAP


After studying in Kerala, India, and moving to the Southern Suburbs of Cape Town, INDIKAAP founder, Michelle Mistry, became homesick for the food culture she knew. Being a certified Ayurvedic Nutritionist, she bottled that knowledge in the hopes of inspiring people to incorporate nourishment and balance through everyday eating.
INDIKAAP has a line of delicious vegan butter, chilli and seasonal vegetable pickle products. In addition to selling great pantry products, they host Ayurvedic retreats, cleanses and workshops where you can learn all about the 6 different tastes used in Ayurveda and nutrition. Mistry even offers personal consultations, which involves food mapping. You can find INDIKAAP at the Oranjezicht City Farm Market.
indikaap.com | Facebook | Instagram
Fehmz Mocktails


Half the fun of drinking cocktails are the vibrant colours and interesting names, that often make up for what they lack in taste. As a teetotaler and foodie, Fehmida Jordaan saw a necessity for equally interesting non-alcoholic beverages on the market…
Fehmz Mocktails offers an extensive and affordable range of flavoured non-alcoholic RTDs, ranging from Lemongrass Ginger to Watermelon, and sugar-free drinks. We just love the playful packaging and innovation of this delicious product.
fehmzmocktails.co.za | Facebook | Instagram
Khayelitsha Farmer, Ncumisa Mkabile


Ncumisa Mkabile, also known as ‘The Spinach Queen’, has gained national recognition after she started a small-scale farming business during lockdown. She has a small chicken farm as well, but what gained Mkabile notoriety is the spinach and cabbage she has been able to grow on unused land in between houses in Khayelitsha.
She was able to use the power of social media to get people to start buying from her and see the value of her farming. The Spar in Khayelitsha Mall noticed and stocked her spinach. Follow her farming journey on Instagram, or place an order through her Facebook group.
Kirsten’s Kick Ass Ice Cream


This female-owned business is run by none other than Kristen herself. She started her business with an ice cream-maker attachment that she received as a wedding gift. Ice cream made for parties quickly turned into ice cream orders for friends, and then strangers, and then an invitation to open her own Kick Ass Ice Cream shop in the Noordhoek farm village.
Today, the brand has six incredible locations in Cape Town; they even have a tropical outpost in Mauritius! Kristen’s mission is to be the little community scoop shop where everyone feels welcome. While the majority of their ice creams are made with milk, cream and sugar, they also offer dairy-free and sugar-free options.
kristenskickass.co.za | Instagram | Facebook
Lexi’s Plant-Based


Lexi Monzeglio encourages locals to champion sustainable and plant-based eating with her range of food products. The former owner of Lexi’s Eatery continues to nurture the vegan and vegetarian community, with a tasty range of healthy and easy-to-make plant-based patties and falafels. Do your belly a favour and try their delicious products, available at Dis-Chem and Spar retail stores nationwide.
Sweet LionHeart


Nikki Symons is one of the OG’s when it comes to female-owned and run businesses in Cape Town. Starting out in 2015 by sharing her drool-worthy and visually stunning cake creations on Instagram, Nikki has built her online cake business into a fully-fledged sweet treat powerhouse. Her all-female Sweet LionHeart team is responsible for creating some of the most instantly recognisable cakes in the country; from cute mini cakes, pops and cookies to striking, multi-tiered celebration showstoppers. Constantly innovating and fiercely championing the female agenda, this team of ‘gurls’ are a force to be reckoned with.
If you’re looking for something beautiful and deliciously indulgent, head over to their website where you can order online or pop by their retail counter at Maker’s Landing. If you love what they do and want to upskill, check out their calendar of interactive workshops, where you can create your own sweet masterpieces under their expert tutelage.
sweetlionheart.com | Instagram
Theonista


Brewmistress and Theonista founder, Meghan Werner, built Theonista around the need to heal her gut and microbiome. Now, she’s helping many others do the same with expert fermentation methods and kombucha. Meghan started Theonista back in 2011 and her first customer was Clarke’s Dining on Bree (also female-owned). Theonista became the first local brand to sell kombucha commercially and has since become a household name.
theonista.co.za | Instagram | Facebook
YIAYIA’s Table


Named after Elli Parolis or ‘Yiayia’ to her family, YIAYIA’s Table is a neighbourhood bakery and coffee shop offering home-baked Greek confectionery. With a menu inspired by Elli’s own recipes of traditional Greek delicacies and vibrant Mediterranean flavours, YIAYIA’s Table is dedicated to keeping her spirit alive through wholesome, comforting foods.
yiayiastable.co.za | Facebook | Instagram
Tessa’s Bakery


Tessa Dasopatis of Tessa’s Bakery, has been passionately baking for more than 25 years, making delicious treats from home. In 2012, she decided it was time to share her baked goods with the rest of us by opening up a shop and setting up a delivery service.
Her baked goods are all made from the finest ingredients, each with a unique touch ranging from chocolate caramel cake, red velvet cake, carrot cake, cheesecake, Peppermint Crisp tarts, cupcakes and more! The perfect treat for birthdays, celebrations, tea time, and basically any time of day.
Women in Fashion & Lifestyle
From fitness to beauty, décor and everything in between, these local female-owned brands are changing the game!
Okracandle


Necessity is the mother of invention. It is this philosophy that ignited creative director Michelle Rust’s imagination and led to the creation of Okracandle. Co-founded with her husband, Erik, the bespoke candle brand launched five years ago.
Rust also does event styling, using her bespoke candles to curate intimate spaces and kindle memorable occasions. Their unique range of candles features beautifully designed pieces, including the Dipped Dinner Set and their popular Gear Candles, which effortlessly transform spaces and invite peace into your home.
okracandle.co.za | Facebook | Instagram
MYUZU by Lana


Flowers have always been the centrepiece of Lana Fredericks’ life; more than a decoration, flowers are the muse for her brand, MYUZU.
As a set designer and interior stylist, Fredericks uses her floral styling to elevate intimate spaces and curate meaningful moments. Since its launch, MYUZU by Lana has been featured at Decorex Cape Town and Johannesburg, and partnered with countless brands, including Okracandle, Lemkus and Nike.
Sixteen Tables


Dining with loved ones is a timeless tradition cherished across cultures and time zones. It is with this intention that Sixteen Tables was launched – sixteen signifying the number of chances we get to break bread with friends and family every week.
Founded by Hayley Sherman, Sixteen Tables sells beautifully crafted, minimalist tablecloths and napkins created from the finest quality imported European linen. Designed with flax linen, the breathable and resilient material has a soft finish, setting the stage for Sunday lunches, festive feasts and countless gatherings around the table.
sixteentables.co.za | Facebook | Instagram
Cards for Conversation


Daily social interactions often don’t go beyond the good-intentioned yet surface-level ‘How are you?’ Founded by Meg Carrie, Cards for Conversation was created out of a need to reconnect with loved ones after grieving the death of her brother, and she figured she wasn’t alone.
Desperate to avoid small-talk, she created Cards for Conversation – a small box with big questions. Since having launched, it has helped thousands of people by taking the awkwardness out of vulnerability. Cards for Conversations can be found at Poetry stores, nationwide, and on their website.
cardsforconversation.com | Facebook | Instagram
Socially Gathering
Image source: Pexels
Founded by Sarah Waller, Socially Gathering is a female-focused platform that creates safe spaces for women, from all walks of life, to engage online and gather in person.
Whether you are looking to find your tribe, spark new friendships, nurture a hobby or expand your network, Socially Gathering facilitates it all. While the larger community is based in Cape Town, they also host events in Joburg. Visit the website and follow them on social media to join upcoming events, from dinners to industry-led conversations and paint & sip socials.
sociallygatheringstore.com | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok
Best Store


Rebecca Scher, founder of Best Jewellery, designs jewellery with the wearer in mind. Her 18ct gold-plated jewellery is designed to be functional yet fashionable. Her earrings are hollow, making them light-as-a-feather and perfect to wear from morning to evening. Rebecca believes that everyone deserves to feel the Best. She developed her brand in response to popular consumer culture that thrives off making the consumer feel ‘less than’. Instead, her brand’s ethos is to uplift and support women through jewellery.
ourbestregards.com | Facebook | Instagram
Black Betty Design


Started in 2012 by designer Kristin Weixelbaumer, Black Betty is a jewellery and piercing studio. Aesthetically gorgeous and edgy in design, Black Betty proves that diamonds are indeed girl’s best friend. All their collections are uniquely crafted, ensuring there’s something for everyone. If you don’t see something that catches your eye, have at it and design your own bespoke piece. In collaboration with the Kolisi Foundation, Black Betty ensures that all of the proceeds from their beaded bracelet sales go back to the women at the Saartjie Baartman Centre, who are GBV survivors and are also responsible for creating the beautiful bracelets.
blackbettydesign.com | Facebook | Instagram
Julie Baby Punch Club


Nomvula ‘Julie Baby’ Mxubane, started making gorgeous punch needle cushions during lockdown. She realised she was super talented and started taking orders! Now, the Julie Baby Punch Club is a group of domestic workers who are “nannies by day and punch needle superstars by night.” We absolutely love their beautiful and colourful cushions!
LEEBEX


Many local fashion brands miss the mark when it comes to inclusive fashion, making it difficult to not only find well-fitted but stylish garments too. LeeBex manages to do that and more. Founded by Rebecca Garande and Lesego Legobane (Thickleeyonce), LeeBex is a start-up retail shop catering to plus-size women. Initially an online retailer, LeeBex now has a store in Melville, Johannesburg. If you’re looking for beautiful clothing for functions or just want to ‘zhuzh’ up your wardrobe, we recommend checking out their online boutique.
leebex.com | Facebook | Instagram
Me&B


Me&B is the mother-daughter fashion duo we never knew we needed! This eclectic brand’s mission is to make fashion fun, one vibrant garment at a time. Started in 2018 by Betina Swart and daughter, Kelly-Grace Gibberd, the brand uses local designers and experts to create chic yet comfortable garments. Check out their online store if your wardrobe needs a splash of colour.
Noa & Co


Founded by Meghan Pietersen, Noa & Co is a brand built on the pillar of self-love and the name says it all – Noa means ‘my love’ in Japanese Kanji. After spending some time in Japan, Megan was particularly inspired by the dedication to wellness culture and traditional health, thus the birth of Noa & Co. We love that this brand doesn’t focus on diet culture, but rather wellness. Noa & Co sells a range of products from collagen creamer to protein powder.
noaandco.com | Facebook | Instagram
RushTush


Rushda Moosjaee or ‘RushTush’, is a powerhouse entrepreneur, mom and all-round inspirational human. She started her career as a personal trainer and helped facilitate the opening of a functional training gym, where she saw the need for tailored workouts specifically designed for women. Fast forward a few years and she now has a fitness app, RushTushFit. This online store offers beauty products, make-up and pharmaceuticals, as well as a range of fitness e-books made to suit anyone’s needs. It is so refreshing to see a personal trainer focused on enhancing women’s health and building confidence!
swiitchbeauty®


Rabia Ghoor started swiitchbeauty® from her bedroom when she was just 14 years old. Seeing a gap in the South African beauty market, Rabia dropped out of school at 16 to pursue her career in beauty. Her vision was to create an affordable makeup line that South African consumers would feel proud to wear. Fast forward to today, Rabia is 24 years young, and has already been awarded Forbes Woman Africa Young Achiever. Swiitchbeauty® is over 100k Instagram followers strong and is growing from strength to strength.
twyg.


Twyg (pronounced ‘twig’) is a not-for-profit company that highlights sustainability and slow and a circular fashion. With over two decades’ experience in the media industry, founder and editor, Jackie May, launched Twyg in 2018 with the intention of promoting a more mindful society. Twyg creates events, campaigns and content to inspire people to do the same. In 2019, they launched the Twyg Sustainability Fashion Awards to garner recognition for designers who honour sustainable practices. Check out their website and social media to learn more about this great collective.
twyg.co.za | Facebook | Instagram
Women in Alcohol
It’s so refreshing to see how many female-owned businesses are taking control in a heavily male-dominated alcohol industry. We love to see it!
The Wine Shaq
Raised in Langa, Cape Town, Nomhle Zondani’s entrepreneurial spirit and thirst for knowledge have taken her from Europe to Africa. With her corporate background and extensive education, Zondani’s interest in wine led to the birth of The Wine Shaq. Her purpose? To promote and shine the proverbial spotlight on wines made by people of colour.
With an extensive portfolio featuring wines such as Asline Wines, Three Quarters, Zoetendal, HER, Mosi Wines, and more, The Wine Shaq continues to empower local wine producers by promoting them at curated and corporate events.
Matawi Mead


Co-founded by Nokukhanya Mncwabe, Matawi produces traditional Xhosa mead, iqhilika. After being subjected to the Western Cape drought, Nokukhanya saw a need for more sustainable alcohol production, as most offerings require lots of water consumption. She pitched her product at the Startup School Africa’s Incubation Programme, and Investec supported the idea.
Matawi fosters job creation by collaborating with and offering training to black-owned mead makers. The eco-friendly brand offers Honey Liqueur and Honey Gin, fermented with Fynbos honey, yeast and water, and infused with indigenous African botanicals.
matawi.co.za | Facebook | Instagram
Aslina Wines By Ntsiki Biyela


Aslina Wines, is a company wholly owned by Ntsiki Biyela, the first black female winemaker in South Africa. Ntsiki has built an impressive resume over the years – she was awarded a scholarship to study winemaking, she then graduated from Stellenbosch University with a BSc in Agriculture (Viticulture and Oenology), slowly thereafter joining boutique winery, Stellekaya Wines.
She has consulted and worked with winemakers in California and France, and sits on the board of directors for the Pinotage Youth Development Academy, which provides technical training and personal development for young South Africans in the Cape Winelands. She creates a wide range of wine stocked across the country and has already won many accolades and awards. You can shop Aslina Wines online at their website below.
L-Gin


L-Gin, a handcrafted gin brand, was created by three female friends who live in Elgin, and just love gin. After completing distillation courses in Johannesburg and Stellenbosch, under the guidance of master distillers, L-Gin was born. The business is female-run, and we love the fact that this gin is produced from fruit and botanicals growing in the Elgin Valley. Their gin has been favourited by gin lovers across the country, and took Gold at the SA Craft Gin Awards 2019. They truly take pride in what they do.
Trizanne Signature Wines


Trizanne Barnard, owner of Trizanne Signature Wines, graduated from Stellenbosch University with a degree in viticulture and oenology. She worked multiple vintages abroad and upon returning home in 2004, was offered the opportunity of starting Anwilka Wines in conjunction with Klein Constantia role-players and Bordeaux winemakers. In 2008, she decided to start her own brand, and Trizanne Signature Wines was born.
She focuses on two very diverse wine regions, namely Elim and the Swartland. Trizanne Signature Wines creates a wide and delicious range of wine, with stockists all across the country. Make sure to check out where you can buy her wine at their website.
Meet the local female winemakers behind some of SA’s favourite labels.
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I know there are hundreds out there, but these 2 are amazing companies run by amazing women! http://www.sixteentables.co.za & http://www.sadieandjean.com.