Johannesburg, South Africa – According to PwC’s economists, South Africa’s narrowly defined unemployment rate is forecast to increase from 31.9% in 2024 to 32.3% this year. As the job market continues to tighten, the role of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) will serve as a catalyst for economic growth, innovation and job creation in the country.
In response to the country’s pressing economic challenge, we continue to actively address these challenges and invest in skills development through our Faranani Rural Women Training Initiative. This programme addresses the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of good health and wellbeing, gender equality, reduce inequalities, decent work and economic growth, and quality education by equipping rural women from previously disadvantaged communities with the business and entrepreneurship skills they need to thrive.
“The Faranani Rural Women Training Initiative has empowered 4,511 women across South Africa since its inception 19 years ago. This initiative, which is part of PwC’s societal purpose has supported many women from rural areas to transform their lives and become capable and economically independent entrepreneurs. I’m proud of the transformative journey we’re taking with the women, and expanding our training to Gqeberha has been a highlight. Our reach is growing and we’re training women in Limpopo, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape."
“The most successful organisations of the future will be those that are agile, innovative, and deeply connected to purpose. And as we grow, we are committed to lifting others—especially women, who are the foundation of our future."
The Faranani Rural Women Training Initiative continues to transform how the graduates operate their businesses. As seen in the inspiring journey of Gaynor Van Wyk and Pumla Milisi, who graduated from the cohort of 209 women this year.
For Gaynor, what began as a plan to escape poverty has become a powerful story of perseverance, purpose, and success in one of South Africa’s most competitive industries. Gaynor defied the odds and emerged as a respected businesswoman in construction—after nearly two decades of challenges as an entrepreneur. From humble beginnings of making just R12 000 monthly income, her business income has surged to a substantial amount that is positively impacting her. Her business has grown so much now that she’s managing two major projects, including her first-ever supply contract for pipes and materials.
In a male-dominated field, her confidence has soared, her sense of purpose is clear, and through the training she has become even more confident. “I used to feel uncertain about my place in this industry,” says Gaynor.
“The Faranani training has helped me gain the confidence and practical skills in marketing, pricing, financial management, and business strategy, tools that have been instrumental in clarifying my vision for my business.”
Gaynor currently employs seven people, with plans to hire 20 to 25 more as she expands her business.
From selling sweets as a child to support her family, Pumla has built a thriving business in the construction industry, overcoming numerous challenges along the way. Her entrepreneurial path began informally in primary school and evolved through various ventures, including catering. Despite limited formal education and resources, Pumla registered her business and secured major contracts along her journey, including securing work with a major construction business.
Pumla says, “The Faranani training played a pivotal role in my business’ day to day operations, it has equipped me with essential skills such as tender document preparation, business planning, and administrative management.” Pumla employs nine people, including youth from the ‘Youth at Work’ programme, and actively supports their professional growth through training and helping them obtain certification.
The journey of these inspiring women reflects the broader impact of the Faranani initiative. In empowering women, we’re empowering them to become agents of change in their own communities and contribute to the economy.
PwC remains committed to the upliftment of women in our country and will continue to build trust in society and solve important problems.
