Visa awards three women-led firms P750,000
Mbongeni Mguni | Tuesday November 4, 2025 14:27
The three winners of the competition are PK Maxi Farms who scooped P350,000 for an innovative and community-impact initiative, while Mr. Solar secured second place and won P200,000. Phemo Aesthetics claimed P150,000 in third place.
Visa officials said according to the IMF, closing gender gaps in the workforce could boost global GDP by up to 35%, highlighting just how much potential lies in empowering women entrepreneurs. The officials said this was among the reasons why Visa's She's Next has been introduced in Botswana, to continue helping women-owned small businesses grow through funding, mentorship, and business training.
'Botswana has one of the highest rates of entrepreneurial potential on the continent,' said Salome Makau, Country Manager for Visa Southern Africa. 'We've seen women here launch businesses that are creative, resilient, and community-focused. “She's Next gives them the boost they deserve; not just for funding, but for access, mentorship, and a sense of belonging in the wider business ecosystem. “This is where Africa's future lies.'
The award ceremony, held last week in Gaborone, brought together women entrepreneurs from across the country alongside business leaders and policymakers. It marked an exciting milestone as She's Next expanded into Botswana for the first time, adding to Visa's growing network of entrepreneurial initiatives across Africa.
Representing the the top prize winner, Lesedi Masilo of PK Maxi Farms, said the the win was deeply meaningful.
'I'm so grateful to Visa for this opportunity. It will help me grow my business faster and create jobs for people in my community. It's a dream come true,' she said.
According to Visa officials, the five She's Next Botswana finalists represented a wide range of industries from agriculture and tourism to education and renewable energy. Each of the finalists will take part in Visa's tailored mentorship and training programme, which offers practical guidance to help strengthen operations and scale growth.
PK Maxi Farms is an agricultural enterprise born out of the COVID-19 pandemic. The company’s goal is to transform the nations' food landscape by tackling import dependency and advancing sustainable farming.
Mr Solar (Tumsyn Pty Ltd) is a 100% citizen-owned solar energy company focused on providing sustainable energy solutions for rural, commercial, and industrial clients, while Phemo Aesthetics is a clinic dedicated to non-invasive skin treatments. The company provides evidence-based care for acne, hyperpigmentation, and anti-aging, helping clients achieve healthy, confident skin through safe and effective procedures.