Empowering women entrepreneurs to take the next step
SPEAKERS:
- Brenda Wilkinson – Co-owner of Rio Largo Olive Estate
Our Women’s Month breakfast was a celebration of the determination, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit of women in business, with an inspiring address from entrepreneur and exporter Brenda Wilkinson, co-owner of Rio Largo Olive Estate.
Brenda shared her remarkable journey from teaching, with no prior experience in olive farming or international trade, to helping build an award-winning South African olive oil brand that now exports to 15 countries. Her story was a powerful reminder that success does not always begin with experience — sometimes it begins with the courage to take the first step.
Brenda emphasised that producing a great product is only part of the journey. Building market awareness, understanding your customer, getting pricing and packaging right, and navigating the true landed cost of a product are all essential when entering international markets. She also highlighted the valuable role that trade missions supported by the dtic and Wesgro played in helping Rio Largo explore and enter new markets.
Not every opportunity resulted in an immediate order, but each experience provided valuable lessons and a deeper understanding of potential markets and buyers. Her message to women entrepreneurs was clear: back yourself, make use of the support available, remain open to learning, and don’t be afraid of the unknown.
EWC Committee Member Deon Theron also reflected on the important role women continue to play across the business and export community, highlighting the determination and commitment that often happens behind the scenes.
It was an inspiring morning filled with connection, encouragement, and a powerful reminder that global opportunities are within reach. Sometimes, all it takes is the courage to start, the willingness to learn, and the confidence to take your product to the world.
