Joanna Govender, a South African executive serving as CEO of EPF Tech Fund and Empire Partner Foundation, has been recognized as one of the top 50 individuals shaping Africa’s development through her support of entrepreneurs.
Govender, as a representative of South Africa, stands among 1,700 nominees hailing from 34 African nations for the African Women in Development Award (AIWD), organised by the Donors for Africa Foundation headquartered in Nigeria.
These women leaders and changemakers from across Africa — just like Joanna — are united by a bold idea, a desire to positively impact their respective communities, and who want the tools to advance their leadership.
Donors for Africa Foundation is a non-profit organisation that collaborates with governments, social impact leaders, the commercial sector, philanthropic organisations, and investors to break the cycle of poverty and address Africa’s concerns.
AWID stands as a beacon of recognition, highlighting the often-unsung heroes – African women who are at the forefront of driving global development initiatives.
This campaign is not just about acknowledgment; it’s about amplifying the stories and achievements of women who are catalysts for change in their communities and beyond.
It is also about finding unknown women transforming their communities, creating tangible impacts, and driving progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In response to her nomination, Joanna Govender expressed her gratitude, stating, “I am deeply honored and thrilled to be recognized among such esteemed company. This acknowledgment from AWID is not just about celebrating individual achievements but amplifying the collective impact of women leaders who are driving meaningful change in their communities and beyond.
“As an advocate for social change and innovation, my leadership at Empire Partner Foundation and EPF Tech Fund have been instrumental in spearheading initiatives aimed at fostering entrepreneurship, youth development, and social impact across Africa.
“My dedication to advancing the SDGs and empowering women leaders exemplifies EPF Tech Fund’s commitment to creating positive change on a global scale.”
EPF Tech Fund – which now has $11 million (R200 million) to support young entrepreneurs – is raising an additional $4.2 million (R80 million) to invest in students and graduates developing technology solutions that might have a substantial impact.
According to Govender, for entrepreneurs to qualify for support from the EPF Tech Fund, their startups must feature locally developed digital solutions, be spearheaded by young leaders, and demonstrate scalability across various African nations.
