Sinikeziwe Tshobisa
Women in the Environment and Sustainability
Nominee's Province:
Eastern Cape
Project Name/Description:
Director – KFOX 2ND Couture Board Company
Sinikeziwe Tshobisa is an inspiring young woman with a strong commitment to rural development and sustainable business practices. One of the remarkable achievements of KFOX 2ND Couture Board Company is its focus on environmental sustainability and job creation. By combatting the invasive black wattle species, the company is contributing to the restoration of water sources, grazing lands, indigenous forests and ecosystems that were negatively affected. In addition, the business has successfully created employment opportunities for local youth, playing a crucial role in enhancing the social, economic, and environmental well-being of the community.
Tshobisa’s involvement in charcoal production, along with the fact that a significant number of charcoal businesses in Matatiele are owned or co-owned by women, demonstrates a shift in power dynamics and leadership roles within the industry. This not only showcases women’s capabilities but also signifies a positive step toward greater gender equality and inclusivity.
Despite facing challenges in terms of limited capital and resources, she and her business partner have been actively involved in various aspects of their business, wearing multiple hats to meet the demands of their enterprise.
With a background in communication science, Tshobisa handles the communication function. Outside of her business ventures, she also engages in science journalism as an intern. Her dedication to rural development has led her to remain in her hometown, seeking opportunities to make a positive impact within her community and address the unique challenges faced by rural areas.
