South Africa: Women’s empowerment and entrepreneurship through Sunrise Campaign

Attending the Human Rights Awareness campaign in Midvaal where we had dialogues and shared conversations about human rights, testimonies shared, and listening to the testimonies of women entrepreneurs showed me that support, mentorship and access to opportunities can help women overcome difficult backgrounds and build sustainable futures for themselves and their families.

One testimony that deeply inspired me was shared by Mme Puleng Moeketsane, who was recognized as the second runner-up in the established businesses category. She reflected on how both the Sunrise Campaign and Gender Links found her at a point in her life where she needed encouragement, direction and support. Through the Programmes, training sessions and summits, she gained knowledge, confidence and valuable business skills that helped her grow not only financially, but socially as well.

As she spoke about her journey, it became clear that her growth was not only about business success. She explained how attending the summits exposed her to new ideas, leadership skills and networks with other women entrepreneurs. These experiences helped her believe in herself and strengthened her ability to communicate, collaborate and support others in her community.

What stood out most in her testimony was her encouragement for women to stand together and uplift one another. She emphasized that just as Gender Links and the Sunrise Campaign supported her journey, women should continue creating spaces where others can grow and succeed. Her message reflected the importance of unity, mentorship and collective empowerment among women.

The Sunrise Campaign continues to play an important role in empowering women to become independent, challenge limiting narratives and rise above difficult circumstances. The name “Sunrise” symbolizes hope, growth and new beginnings, and for many beneficiaries, including Mme Puleng Moeketsane, this meaning has become a lived reality. Through these initiatives, women are gaining the confidence to pursue entrepreneurship, develop leadership skills and create opportunities within their communities.

Listening to stories like Mme Puleng Moeketsane reminded me that empowerment is not only about financial support, but also about restoring confidence and dignity. When women are given opportunities to learn, lead and grow, they are able to transform not only their own lives, but also the lives of those around them. Her testimony showed me that resilience, combined with support and access to knowledge, can create meaningful and lasting change.

(Written by Paballo Koelli, a RWVL intern)