South Africa, known for its rich natural resources and dynamic economy, has seen the rise of many successful women.
Among these, a group of women have made notable strides in various sectors, establishing themselves as some of the wealthiest in the nation.
Their achievements are significant not just in terms of wealth but also as symbols of progress in a traditionally male-dominated business world.
Their success stories serve as an inspiration, showcasing how they have overcome challenges and risen to prominence in their respective fields.
This article will walk you into the lives and accomplishments of the top 10 richest women in South Africa, revealing their business strategies, the obstacles they faced, and their journey to success.
10 Wealthiest Women in South Africa
Wendy Appelbaum is currently the richest woman in South Africa with a net worth of $168 million. As the Chairperson of Demorgenzon Wine Estate and a director at Liberty Group, she has built her wealth in various industries.
Her success is attributed not only to her business acumen but also to her philanthropic efforts.
1. Wendy Appelbaum
Wendy Appelbaum, daughter of the late Donald Gordon, stands as South Africa’s richest woman with a fortune of $168 million.
She’s a prominent figure in the business realm, particularly as the Chairperson of Demorgenzon Wine Estate.
Her business acumen stems not only from her father’s legacy but also from her individual efforts and strategic decisions.
Appelbaum, a Director at Liberty Group, has diversified her involvement across various sectors, including healthcare and hospitality.
Her role extends to being a board member at Trustee Tribe Trust, Sphere Holding Limited, and Victny Strategic Services, among others.
2. Wendy Ackerman
Wendy Ackerman is a testament to the power of independent success. Married to Raymond Ackerman, a prominent businessman, she has carved her own path with a personal net worth of $124 million.
Ackerman’s journey is marked by being the first female director in the South African retail sector.
Her role as a non-executive director at Pick and Pay Holdings Limited, a leading supermarket chain, highlights her business prowess.
Her involvement in educational and philanthropic ventures, like the Ackerman Family Educational Trust, showcases her commitment to social development.
3. Irene Charnley
Irene Charnley, with a net worth of $102 million, is a notable figure in the technology and telecommunications sector.
As a co-founder of Smile Telecommunication Holding LTD, Charnley has significantly impacted the African telecom landscape.
Her journey includes a pivotal role as the Executive Director at MTN Group before venturing into establishing Smile.
Charnley’s entrepreneurial spirit is evident in her investments in technology and telecommunications across Africa.
Her presence in Nigeria, Uganda, DR Congo, Tanzania, and South Africa through Smile Telecommunications cements her position as a key player in the industry and the third richest woman in South Africa.
4. Bridgette Radebe
Bridgette Radebe, a pioneer in the mining industry, holds a net worth of $95 million.
Her distinction as the first black female mining entrepreneur in South Africa marks her as a trailblazer in the sector.
Radebe’s leadership as the founder, Executive Chairman, and CEO of Mmakau Mining has seen the company thrive in gold, platinum, uranium, and coal mining.
Her influence extends beyond business, as she serves as the President of the South African Mining Development Association and has been involved in various organizations, promoting sustainable mining practices.
Radebe’s journey is a powerful narrative of overcoming barriers in a traditionally male-dominated field.
5. Sharon Wapnick
Sharon Wapnick, with a net worth of $50 million, is a key figure in South Africa’s real estate and investment sectors.
As the daughter of the late Alec Wapnick, she has successfully maintained and grown her family’s legacy.
Her roles as the Non-executive Chairman of Octodec Investments Ltd and City Property Proprietary Limited, along with her position as a Senior Partner at Tugendhaft Wapnick Banchetti & Partners, showcase her multifaceted business expertise.
Wapnick’s success in managing substantial investments and her leadership in real estate development places her among the most influential women in South African business.
6. Elizabeth Bradley
Elizabeth Bradley, a prominent figure in the South African business community, has amassed a net worth of $130 million.
Her leadership at Weslo Investments and as Vice Chairman of Toyota SA epitomizes her diverse business interests.
Bradley’s portfolio includes significant stakes in various companies, ranging from banking to hospitality.
Her philanthropic endeavors, such as the Elizabeth Montgomerie Foundation and the Charles Wolfson Charitable Trust, reflect her commitment to societal welfare.
7. Pam Golding
Pam Golding, renowned in the real estate sector, founded the Pam Golding Property Group, a leader in South African real estate.
With a net worth of $15 million, she stands out not just for her business acumen but also for her global influence, with offices worldwide.
Beyond her commercial success, Golding’s philanthropic initiatives, like the Pam Golding Property Youth Initiative, underscore her dedication to social development.
8. Judy Dlamini
Judy Dlamini, with a fortune of $10 million, is a respected figure in South Africa’s business landscape.
She holds prominent positions as Chairman at Aspan Pharmacare and Mbekani Group.
Previously a Non-Executive Director at Northam Platinum, Dlamini’s extensive involvement in diverse sectors showcases her versatility.
As the Chancellor of the University of the Witwatersrand, her influence extends to academia.
9. Mamphela Ramphele
Mamphela Ramphele, a multi-talented figure with a net worth of $6 million, has made significant strides in various fields.
Her roles span across business, politics, medicine, academia, and activism.
As the founder of ReimagineSA and Head of Circle Capital, her influence in business is noteworthy.
Ramphele’s political and social justice efforts, including her anti-apartheid activism and co-founding the Black Consciousness Movement, reflect her dedication to societal change.
10. Nonhlanhla Mjoli-Mncube
Nonhlanhla Mjoli-Mncube, a distinguished figure in the real estate industry, has a net worth of $5 million.
As the founder and Managing Director of Mjoli Development Company and Eziko Investments, her entrepreneurial skills are evident.
Her involvement in empowering women and promoting gender equality, through roles in organizations like the South African Women in Construction, showcases her commitment to societal advancement.
Mjoli-Mncube’s achievements in business and her efforts in supporting women entrepreneurs underline her influence and dedication to creating equitable opportunities in the industry.