Durban — The growth of women-owned businesses and projects in South Africa aims at providing women with employment opportunities in a patriarchal society.

Various women in Durban have taken to starting up businesses/projects ranging from the marketing industry to design to fitness and health.

Stellar Consulting is a company co-founded by sisters Sarah Whitaker, 44, and Katey Watkin, 41, – and it started in September this year.

The co-founders have a combined 40 years of experience. Whitaker has experience in design having notably designed and created the glass artwork on the front of Bridge City Mall in KwaMashu, Durban.

Watkin has experience in marketing and was notably included in the KZN International Cricket Council World Cup committee in 2003.

Watkin said: “I woke in the middle of the night and looked up at the stars and made the connection that if I'd had a baby girl I would’ve called her Stellar ... and just like that my business idea was born.

“Stellar Consulting is a multi-disciplinary agency working with clients worldwide.

“Our specialities include marketing, brand strategy, graphic design, project management, event management and social media management.

“We are here to make big ideas happen.”

Under marketing, the company covers various aspects that include sales strategies, research your brand/ strategies and create solutions, strategic planning, dynamic change and implementation as well brand management and promotion strategies.

Under graphic design, they focus on CVs/portfolios, business cards. adverts/signs and logo design.

“It is an incredibly empowering feeling knowing that I am fully in control of my time, my energy, my future.

“I have three nieces who are my world and I want to be a role model for them. “I want them to know that anything is possible and that there isn’t anything they cannot do,” added Watkin.

Stellar Consulting works with various partners that include East Coast Radio, Paragon Van and Truck Rental and Urban MGT.

By Ntuthuko Mlondo - Daily News 22 November 2022