Valcare, a leading social impact organisation based in Paarl, is set to commemorate National Women's Month this August by honouring the remarkable women who are positively transforming the Cape Winelands region.
Inspired by the resilient and magnificent protea flower, which thrives in challenging terrain, Valcare's Proteas of the Valley women’s empowerment initiative recognises and applauds those extraordinary women who bloom against all odds.
Now in its eleventh year, the initiative has become a symbol of strength and inspiration for the communities it serves, celebrating over 100 exceptional women who have made an indelible mark on society.
Alison Wilson, one of the distinguished Proteas of the Valley from 2022, shared her profound experience, saying, "Meeting the other Protea ladies was incredible. There were no hidden agendas, no competition for prizes. It was simply a genuine celebration of each other."
To ensure a fair and unbiased selection process, Valcare will conduct an independent nomination and selection procedure to identify 15 outstanding women who will have the opportunity to share their stories and showcase their impactful work. These exceptional individuals will also be invited to attend an exclusive event where they can celebrate each other’s achievements.
Among other local businesses, leading South African wine and spirits producer KWV is one of Valcare's main funders.
Nominate your own Protea of the Valley
Valcare warmly invites the public to participate by nominating the inspirational women who reside or work within the Cape Winelands region, spanning from Paarl to Franschhoek, Wellington to Stellenbosch. These extraordinary women are those who are making a tangible, positive difference in the lives of others.
Reflecting on her experience as a 2022 Protea, Loren Erasmus expressed, "Being nominated and celebrated as a Protea was an incredibly humbling experience. It touched my heart to know that the communities I work in recognised and valued my contributions."
Do you know an exceptional woman in the Cape Winelands who is making a significant impact within her community? In that case, we encourage you to nominate her for the Proteas of the Valley initiative.
For further information about this campaign and to submit your nominations, please visit Proteas of the Valley.