This new award follows in the footsteps of the Shoprite Checkers/SABC2 Woman of the Year Award, which the group hosted for 14 years before putting it on hold last year to launch a national feeding program assisting the poorest of communities when the country went into recession.
The new programme will reward exceptional and visionary women who have achieved in their own fields with the determination and foresight to make an impact on the future of many fellow South Africans.
All South Africans are invited to participate by nominating the nation's heroines of the future in five categories, namely: Health Care-Givers; Educators; Corner Shop to Big Business Makers; Good Neighbours and Youth Movers.
Brian Weyers, director of the Shoprite Group, said that the categories have been selected very carefully to look at some of the social and economic issues that will impact positively on the future of the country.
“Through this award we want to focus the attention of the people of our country on finding solutions for those critical matters affecting our future. The winners will be awarded with individual prize money but we will also give R100 000 towards the work they do for a better future,” he said.
Furthermore the Shoprite Checkers Women of the Year Award will honour an esteemed South African whom during her or his lifetime has inspired generations.
The public will be asked to nominate the Lifetime Achiever who will receive R100 000 to donate to a cause which the recipient believes will better the lives of South Africans.
The closing date for nominations is Friday, 30 April 2010, and South Africans who would like to nominate candidates can simply visit their nearest Shoprite or Checkers store to collect entry forms. Information will also be published in Huisgenoot, You and Drum from the beginning of March until the winners are announced.
Those with access to the internet can download entry forms from the Award's official website: www.womenoftheyear.co.za. They can also make contact with the organisers by e-mail on or +27 (0)21 980 4285 or +27 (0)21 980 1570.
After the nationwide search campaign, the Award culminates with a spectacular gala evening in July 2010 at Emperors Palace in Gauteng to announce the winners. This dazzling event will be broadcast during prime time on Monday, 9 August 2010 on MNet.
