A new chapter is unfolding for women in business with the return of the Veuve Clicquot Bold Woman Award in South Africa. This award, now in its fourth year, spotlights women who are not just leaders but also pioneers, changing industries and inspiring others.
The Bold Woman Award has been honouring exceptional women for over fifty years. Since it started in 1972, more than 450 women from around the world have received this recognition. These women are part of a global community that thrives on innovation, resilience, and ambition.
In 2025, the award will open its doors to a new generation of female entrepreneurs. There are two categories: the Bold Woman Award for established leaders who have been in business for more than five years, and the Bold Future Award for rising stars who have been in business for less than five years. Veuve Clicquot aims to support women who challenge the norm and drive industries forward. This award is not just about recognition; it provides a platform for influence, visibility, and connection, allowing women to network with others who share their determination.
READ MORE: Amogelang Maledu Named Curator For 2025/26 MTN x UJ New Contemporaries Award
The story of Madame Clicquot is inspiring. At just 27 years old, she took charge of Maison Veuve Clicquot during a time when women had very few rights in business. Instead of accepting these limitations, she changed the game by creating vintage champagne and the first known blended rosé.
As part of its mission to empower women, Veuve Clicquot launched the Bold International Barometer in 2019. This study tracks the progress of female entrepreneurship around the world, providing insights into the challenges and successes women face in business.
In South Africa, the spirit of entrepreneurship is thriving. Recent findings show that 61% of South African women identify as entrepreneurs, especially among those aged 20 to 29. While global female entrepreneurship may be slowing down, South Africa stands out as a leader in women-driven businesses.
The Veuve Clicquot Bold Woman Award aims to build on this momentum. Women who are ready to be recognized for their achievements in business are encouraged to enter the 2025 awards.
READ MORE: Boemo Dial Takes Home Major Prize At The Cape Town Art Fair
How to Enter:
Women who are residents of South Africa and have businesses based in the country can apply. Here’s what you need to know:
- Bold Woman Award: To enter this category, candidates must be founders or CEOs of a company for more than five years. They should have shown growth and transformation in their field and maintained ethical business practices for at least two years.
- Bold Future Award: Candidates for this category must be founders or CEOs of a company that has been running for less than five years. They should have made significant contributions to their company’s success and brought positive change to their market while upholding ethical standards.
Three finalists from each category will be chosen by a panel of independent judges. They will be invited to the award ceremony on July 16, where one winner from each category will be announced. The winner of the Bold Woman Award will also have the chance to visit Reims, France, to experience the luxury of Maison Veuve Clicquot.
Women leaders who want to be recognized for their hard work and success are invited to enter the Veuve Clicquot Bold Woman Award by filling out a simple form on the Maison’s Bold Open Data Base website. This platform helps connect female entrepreneurs globally, providing visibility, networking, and community support.
