Professor Thuli Madonsela

Professor Thuli Madonsela has been on the judging panel for the past 10 years. The former Public Protector of South Africa and full-time commissioner on the South African Law Reform Commission is currently the director of the Centre for Social Justice in the Faculty of Law at Stellenbosch University, and a professor of law occupying the Law Trust Research Chair in Social Justice at the university.

Nondumiso Mabece

First-time judge Nondumiso Mabece is a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience spanning business and marketing management, having worked for some of the best advertising agencies and corporate organisations in South Africa and Africa. Nondumiso holds a master’s in Business Administration and is pursuing a doctorate in the subject. 

Dawn Nathan-Jones

Joining the panel for the seventh year is Dawn Nathan-Jones, an entrepreneur and CEO of Over the Rainbow, a social enterprise that provides entrepreneurs with training, mentorship and tools to assist them in building thriving businesses.

Dr Dulcy Rakumakoe

Joining the judging panel this year is Dr Dulcy Rakumakoe, CEO of Quadcare and 2020 winner of the Woman of the Future Award. She holds an MBBCh degree from the University of Witwatersrand, a Master of Science in Sports Medicine and an MBA from the Gordon Institute of Business Science, among other academic accolades.

Suzy Brokensha

A veteran of the magazine industry, Suzy Brokensha has always felt strongly about recognising and rewarding South African women who have started their own businesses. She has been at the helm of FAIRLADY through many transitions. FAIRLADY has always been written by, about and for South African women.

Mbali Soga

After a whirlwind year back at the helm of quarterly women’s glossy TRUELOVE, having enjoyed a stint as Head of Content at South Africa’s biggest fashion e-tailer, Mbali is now in charge of another heritage brand, DRUM.