KZN Women in Business (KZNWIB) raised R45 726 for its nominated charity for 2026, The Youth Education and Support (YES) Trust, reinforcing its commitment to supporting organisations that make a meaningful difference in the KwaZulu-Natal community.
A cheque was officially handed over to The YES Trust at KZNWIB’s final networking meeting of the year, held on Thursday, 5 November 2026. However, the support extended well beyond the financial contribution. Throughout the year, KZNWIB members generously donated groceries, toiletries and pre-loved work clothing to assist tertiary students supported by The YES Trust. Several members also volunteered their time and expertise, offering mentorship and practical assistance to the organisation and its committee.
“One of the things we value most about KZN Women in Business is the opportunity to use our collective networks, resources and skills to make a difference beyond our own businesses,” says Benni Thompson, KZNWIB Chairperson. “We are delighted to have raised R45 726 for The YES Trust, but equally proud of the additional support our members have provided throughout the year. Whether through donations, mentorship or sharing their expertise, our members have demonstrated the power of women working together to support and uplift others.”
Established in 1997, The YES Trust is a Durban-based non-profit organisation that works to remove barriers to tertiary education for deserving undergraduate and postgraduate students. Its support includes financial assistance with tuition fees, textbooks, transport and accommodation, as well as mentorship, career development and life skills support.
Craig Girvin, Chairperson of The YES Trust, expressed his appreciation for the partnership and the commitment shown by KZNWIB members. “On behalf of The YES Trust, I would like to sincerely thank KZN Women in Business for its substantial and wide-ranging support throughout the year. What has made this relationship particularly special is that KZNWIB has been genuinely invested in our work. The support has gone far beyond financial donations, with members contributing groceries and clothing for our students, volunteering as mentors and sharing their knowledge and expertise with our committee. This involvement has been enormously valuable, and we are truly grateful for the difference KZNWIB has made.”
As a non-profit, voluntary organisation managed by a committee of volunteers and a part-time administrator, KZNWIB donates the profits generated during its financial year to a charity selected by its members. The organisation remains committed to its longstanding purpose of connecting, supporting, encouraging and developing women in business across KwaZulu-Natal, while recognising the importance of giving back to the broader community.
KZNWIB welcomes women from all business sectors, from small business owners to corporate executives, to join its monthly networking meetings, held on the first Thursday of each month from February to November, between 8:30am and 10:30am at the Onomo Hotel in Durban. For more information please visit www.kznwib.co.za or contact Nicci Hosking, KZNWIB Administrator, at [email protected].
