Marylou Greig | Editor

Over the past decade, private equity has become an increasingly vital force in South Africa’s economic landscape – driving growth, enabling transformation, and unlocking value across sectors.

However, according to a report by Stanton Chase, Private Equity’s Future is Diverse: Why DEI Will Matter More Than Ever in 2025, private equity firms are facing a perfect storm: younger generations inheriting massive wealth are demanding diversity in their investments, while major institutional investors like pension funds (which provide billions in capital to private equity firms globally) are setting strict diversity requirements before investing. Why? Because diverse teams bring different perspectives, challenge assumptions, and spot opportunities that homogeneous groups miss. And because diverse groups make better decisions with less cognitive bias.

So, what was once a niche, largely male-dominated industry is steadily evolving, opening space for a new generation of professionals. Among them, a rising cohort of formidable women who are not just participating, but shaping the future of private equity in South Africa.

This compilation celebrates the voices, journeys and achievements of some of those women. Each story is unique, marked by resilience, ambition, and a clear sense of purpose. Together, they offer insight into the changing face of the industry, and the power of inclusion.

These women are investors, dealmakers, strategists and leaders. They have navigated challenges, seized opportunities, and carved out space at the tables where they were once underrepresented. Their stories are also threaded with a common theme: belief in self, the value of hard work, and the importance of mentorship and support networks.

As the private equity industry in South Africa continues to mature, so too does its understanding of the power of diverse leadership. This feature stands as a recognition of progress made, and a reminder of the work still ahead.

We hope that the stories shared here inspire others to imagine what’s possible, and to know that not only is there room, but there is real opportunity for women in this dynamic and impactful space.