South Africa, a country renowned for its diverse industries and economic influence, is also home to some of the most powerful and wealthiest women in Africa. As we enter 2025, these women not only continue to grow their fortunes but are also shaping the economic future of the nation. From retail and telecommunications to mining and finance, their stories are not just about wealth—they are about resilience, innovation, and leadership.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 richest women in South Africa, delving into their industries, accomplishments, and how they’ve achieved such extraordinary success.
1. Wendy Appelbaum – Net Worth: R2.6 Billion
Wendy Appelbaum is not just the daughter of South African billionaire Donald Gordon—she’s a business mogul in her own right. With a net worth of R2.6 billion, Wendy has built a reputation as a formidable leader in both business and philanthropy.
Industry: Wine Estate Ownership and Philanthropy
Appelbaum chairs the DeMorgenzen Wine Estate in the Western Cape, a renowned winery that also hosts major events. Along with her work in the wine industry, Wendy is also a dedicated philanthropist, funding initiatives that support healthcare and education, particularly for underprivileged communities in South Africa.
Her success goes beyond financial achievements. Wendy Appelbaum’s contributions to society reflect her commitment to making a meaningful impact through her wealth.
2. Wendy Ackerman – Net Worth: R1.9 Billion
Wendy Ackerman is one of the most influential figures in South Africa’s retail industry, thanks to her pivotal role in co-founding Pick n Pay, one of the country’s largest supermarket chains. With a net worth of R1.9 billion, Ackerman’s impact on the retail sector is immense.
Industry: Retail
Ackerman’s contributions to the supermarket giant have helped transform Pick n Pay into a household name. Beyond her work with the company, Wendy is also involved in various philanthropic efforts, particularly in child welfare and education. Her approach to business has always been rooted in ethics and social responsibility, making her a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Wendy Ackerman’s success story is an inspiring example of how women can achieve both financial success and social good simultaneously.
3. Irene Charnley – Net Worth: R1.6 Billion
Irene Charnley has played a crucial role in expanding access to mobile networks across Africa, making her one of the richest women in South Africa with a net worth of R1.6 billion.
Industry: Telecommunications and Investment
Charnley was a key figure at MTN Group, one of Africa’s largest telecommunications companies. She later founded Smile Telecoms, a company that focuses on providing affordable mobile services across African nations. Irene is also an investor in various sectors, including media and real estate, making her a key player in South Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Her legacy is not only measured in financial success but also in her ability to bridge the digital divide, making communication more accessible to millions across Africa.
4. Bridgette Radebe – Net Worth: R1 Billion
Bridgette Radebe is a pioneer in the mining sector, known for founding Mmakau Mining, a company involved in the extraction of gold, platinum, and coal. With a net worth of R1 billion, she is one of the leading women in the mining industry.
Industry: Mining
Bridgette is widely regarded as one of the few women who have managed to break through in the traditionally male-dominated mining sector. She has been instrumental in her company’s success, ensuring that Mmakau Mining remains a key player in South Africa’s mining industry. Beyond her business, Bridgette is also an advocate for women’s empowerment in the workforce.
Her rise in mining is a testament to her resilience and determination, inspiring other women to pursue careers in industries where women have historically been underrepresented.
5. Magda Wierzycka – Net Worth: R850 Million
Magda Wierzycka is a well-respected figure in South Africa’s financial industry, best known for co-founding Sygnia Ltd., a leading asset management company. With a net worth of R850 million, Wierzycka has built a solid reputation for her business acumen and advocacy for transparency in the finance world.
Industry: Finance and Asset Management
At the helm of Sygnia, Magda Wierzycka has reshaped the asset management industry in South Africa. Her work in promoting ethical investing practices and her focus on reducing costs for investors have earned her widespread respect in the financial community. She is also a vocal advocate for financial literacy and education, helping people make informed decisions about their wealth.
Magda’s career exemplifies the intersection of finance and ethics, showing that success in business doesn’t have to come at the expense of social responsibility.
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6. Sharon Wapnick – Net Worth: R767 Million
Sharon Wapnick has played a major role in shaping South Africa’s real estate market. With a net worth of R767 million, she has cemented her position as a key figure in both real estate development and investment.
Industry: Real Estate and Investments
As a top executive at Octodec Investments and City Property Proprietary Limited, Sharon has overseen some of the most significant developments in South Africa’s property sector. Her keen insight into real estate and her leadership in investment strategies have been instrumental in the growth of several major projects.
Sharon’s work continues to influence the South African property market, and her business model is one that balances growth with sustainability.
7. Elizabeth Bradley – Net Worth: R332 Million
Elizabeth Bradley’s work spans both the automotive and finance sectors, making her a trailblazer in industries traditionally dominated by men. With a net worth of R332 million, she has made significant strides in the corporate world.
Industry: Automotive and Finance
Elizabeth has held prominent roles in companies such as Wesco Investments and Toyota South Africa. Her expertise in finance and strategic leadership has helped these companies grow and expand. Elizabeth’s career is a reflection of how women can succeed in sectors where they are often underrepresented, proving that ambition and hard work can lead to success.
Her achievements are a reminder that women’s contributions are vital to the success of industries that rely on innovation and leadership.
8. Judy Dlamini – Net Worth: R124 Million
Judy Dlamini’s wealth comes not only from her business ventures but also from her work in education and healthcare. With a net worth of R124 million, Dlamini has dedicated much of her career to improving access to education and healthcare in South Africa.
Industry: Healthcare and Investments
Dlamini is the founder of the Mbekani Group and serves as the Chancellor of the University of the Witwatersrand. She is also known for her advocacy work in the healthcare sector, where she has fought to improve the quality of care for all South Africans. Her work in education has earned her recognition as one of South Africa’s most influential leaders in both business and social reform.
Judy’s story is one of dedication to improving her community and using her success to drive positive change.
9. Nonhlanhla Mjoli-Mncube – Net Worth: R94 Million
Nonhlanhla Mjoli-Mncube has made a name for herself in South Africa’s real estate and education sectors. With a net worth of R94 million, she has made significant contributions to improving housing and educational opportunities in the country.
Industry: Real Estate and Education
As a developer and educator, Nonhlanhla has worked on numerous projects aimed at improving access to affordable housing and enhancing educational facilities in South Africa. Her efforts have focused on creating lasting change for communities in need, ensuring that both housing and education are accessible to more South Africans.
Her work highlights the power of combining business acumen with a passion for social improvement.
10. Mamphela Ramphele – Net Worth: R55 Million
Mamphela Ramphele is a well-known academic, businesswoman, and activist. With a net worth of R55 million, she has used her wealth to drive social reform and promote equality in South Africa.
Industry: Academia, Business, and Activism
Mamphela Ramphele has served in various leadership roles, including as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Town. She is also a co-founder of the South African Medical Research Council and has been a vocal advocate for social justice and healthcare reform. Ramphele’s work in education and healthcare continues to influence policy and improve the lives of many South Africans.
Her career is an example of how wealth and influence can be used to fight for social justice and equality.
Empowering South Africa’s Future Through Women
The stories of these richest women in South Africa showcase the power of perseverance, innovation, and leadership. From corporate boardrooms to social activism, these women have proven that success is not defined by gender, but by the impact one makes. As we move through 2025, these women will continue to inspire generations to come, paving the way for even more women to rise in business and leadership.
Their combined efforts not only contribute to the financial success of South Africa but also serve as powerful reminders that women can achieve anything they set their minds to—whether that’s breaking barriers in business, leading through philanthropy, or changing their communities for the better.
In celebrating their achievements, we honor not just their wealth, but the positive change they are bringing to South Africa’s future.
