Celebrating Our First Award: 2024 FoodBev Manufacturing SETA Stakeholder Recognition & Appreciation Awards.

A Milestone for ASIME Women

At ASIME Women, 2024 marks a defining moment in our journey of women and youth empowerment. We are proud to announce that our CEO, Ms. Mpume Mpanza, has been honored with the Women Empowerment in Skills Development Award by FoodBev SETA. This recognition serves as a testament to the tireless work our organization has undertaken since its inception in 2018 to ensure that women and youth in KwaZulu-Natal, and beyond, can actively and meaningfully participate in South Africa’s economy.

This award is more than a personal accolade for Ms. Mpanza—it symbolizes the validation of a collective mission, a shared vision, and an unwavering dedication to empowering the underrepresented. For ASIME Women, it is a beacon of motivation, urging us to advance our cause with even greater fervor.

ASIME Women CEO Ms Mpume Mpanza. A proud recipient of the skills development award

The ASIME Women Story: Building Economic Equity for Women and Youth

Founded on the principles of gender equality, social consciousness, and entrepreneurial innovation, ASIME Women is a proudly women-led, impact driven organization committed to breaking barriers for women and youth in economic participation. We liaise with key players across industries, particularly within the agricultural value chain, to integrate emerging entrepreneurs, small-scale farmers, and SMEs into the mainstream economy.

Our Vision is clear: To be agents of change that drive efficiency, entrepreneurial momentum, and social impact. Our Mission is steadfast: To build capacity and unlock business opportunities that lead to sustainable and competitive participation in South Africa’s economy.

Since 2018, ASIME Women has successfully built a network of approximately 4,000 women and youth entrepreneurs across KwaZulu-Natal, with 80% engaged in agricultural activities. These individuals are shaping industries through agro-processing, livestock farming, food retail, and innovative ventures like skincare products and specialized spices.

Celebrating Excellence! Honouring these trailblazers on the Foodbev SETA stakeholder catalogue, for the purposeful work they do to empower women and youth and shaping a brighter and inclusive future.

Empowering Through Training and Development

At the heart of our initiatives is skills development and capacity building. By providing targeted training such as New Venture Creation (NQF Level 4), digital skills programmes, and cooperative management workshops, we ensure that our beneficiaries are equipped to transition from informal to formal business operations.

Through programmes like Entrepreneurs Aftercare and incubation and work placements, we have created a solid foundation for long-term business sustainability. Our hands-on approach includes project facilitation, resource mobilization, and technical support to bridge the gap between vision and execution.

CEO- FoodBev Seta Ms Nokuthula Selamolela and CEO- ASIME Women Ms Mpume Mpanza

Driving Economic Participation in Agriculture

KwaZulu-Natal’s rich agricultural landscape has provided a fertile ground for our work. By focusing on primary agriculture, poultry farming, and livestock production, ASIME Women supports farmers and entrepreneurs in scaling their operations to commercial levels.

In addition, we promote innovation in agro-processing—turning raw agricultural products into high-value goods like dairy products, sauces, and skin care items. These ventures not only create jobs but also enhance the competitiveness of women-led enterprises in national and global markets.

A Recognition of Passion and Purpose

Receiving the Women Empowerment in Skills Development Award is not just an acknowledgment of our achievements but a celebration of the vision and passion of Ms. Mpume Mpanza. Her leadership has been the driving force behind ASIME’s growth and impact.

With her at the helm, we have navigated challenges, built partnerships, and empowered thousands of women and youth to take ownership of their futures. Her unrelenting zest for gender equality and economic inclusivity has turned ASIME Women into a transformative force in South Africa.

Looking Forward

This award is a catalyst to propel us forward. It reminds us why we started and reaffirms our belief in the untapped potential of women and youth. As we continue our work, we remain committed to creating opportunities, fostering sustainability, and ensuring that women and youth are no longer on the periphery of the economy but active participants and leaders in its transformation.

A Heartfelt Thank You

To Ms. Mpume Mpanza, your dedication inspires us daily. Your vision has laid the foundation for an organization that does more than empower—it transforms lives, families, and communities. We are honored to follow your lead and build on the incredible momentum you have created.

Together, we will continue to champion a future where women and youth are integral to the economic fabric of South Africa. Thank you to FoodBev SETA for recognizing our efforts, and to everyone who supports our mission. This is just the beginning.