The WDB Trust

Moments from our recent CBFL & BCS graduation ceremonies in Acornhoek and Makhado. We’re still celebrating the wins, the growth, and the bright futures ahead.

Our microfinance programme continues to be a cornerstone of WDB Trust’s work. We remain dedicated to empowering women and integrating them into the mainstream economy, enabling them to actively contribute to the growth and development of their families and communities.

His reflections remind us that when women are equipped with resources, skills, and support, entire communities rise. Through our programs, empowerment becomes action — and action creates lasting change. #WDBTrust #WomenEmpowerment #CommunityImpact

Looking back at an inspiring conversation with Training Academy Programme (TAP) community impact interviewee, Siphiwe Kunene on the transformative impact of WDB Trust.

Dancing to our own anthem all our esteemed guests took to the floor and celebrated the second day of the Zanele Mbeki International Women's Day Dialogue. @unisa #IWD #IWD2026 #SocialBusiness

In closing the WDB believes that poverty is not inevitable . It is a challenge that can be defeated when we empower people. Innovation is a great partner because it has allowed us to reimagine the possibilities that lie in driving change, solving problems and building systems that empower us all. #IWD #IWD2026 #socialbusiness

The WDB fosters continental collaboration, movement building for women as well as empowerment through unity. The results of the organisation speak for themselves. Women who once struggled to put food on the table are now employers , leaders and role models in their communities. @unisa #IWD #IWD2026 #socialbusiness

The additional work of the WDB involves adult literacy namely: 1. Financial Literacy 2. Intergenerational Impact 3.Economic Participation @unisa #IWD #IWD2026 #socialbusiness

The WDB does not only offer financial support it has an established Training Academy that equips women , youth and adults with skills that are needed to thrive in modern economy. @unisa #IWD #IWD2026 #SocialBusiness

The WDB has adopted the Grameen Bank Model pioneered by Nobel Prize Winner Professor Muhammad Yunus. This model has globally proven that when the poorest are given access to financial tools they can lift themselves out of poverty. @unisa #IWD #IWD2026 #SocialBusiness

Professor Edith Phaswana is our Program Director for the Day. Our program for the day focuses on 1.The work and impact of the WDB Trust 2.Case studies of successful South African businesses 3. Unlocking Market Access and Ecosystems 4. Policy Innovations 5. How do Social Businesses Thrive? 6.Partnerships that can fuel the growth of social businesses @unisa #IWD2026 #SocialBusiness #WomenLedDevelopment

Mam' Riya Phiyega, the CEO of WDB takes the stage to share the impactful work that the WDB is doing in the community. From Microfinance and enterprise development , capacity building and youth empowerment as well as adult literacy through computer training. Her presentation shows us that women don't lack ideas or innovative ideas they lack access to networks , funding and technical tools that capacitate the growth of their social businesses. The WDB consistently attempts to close that gap in the community. @unisa #IWD #IWD2026 #SocialBusiness

The work of the WDB Training Academy for the youth covers : 1.Digital Literacy 2.Future Workplace Readiness 3.Leadership Development @unisa #IWD #IWD2026 #SocialDevelopment

Scenes from the CBFL & BCS graduation celebration in Makhado, Limpopo. Congratulations graduates!

A beautiful recap of our CBFL & BCS Graduates in Acornhoek, Mpumalanga.

Day 2 starts in 2 hours! The 15th Zanele Mbeki International Women’s Day Dialogue picks up where yesterday’s powerful conversations left off. Today’s sessions will dive into practical case studies on social entrepreneurship, exploring real models in action and charting a clear path forward for women-led development in Africa. Do join us! 📍Houghton Hotel 09:00- 17:00

As we conclude the 1st day Zanele Mbeki International Women’s Day Dialogue, we extend our sincere gratitude to our distinguished speakers, panelists, our Programme Director Nicole Morris, partners, sponsors, and all our guests who contributed to a day of rich dialogue and shared learning. Our appreciation also goes to Mam’ Zanele Mbeki and the Thabo Mbeki Foundation for continuing to convene spaces that advance women-led development and social entrepreneurship across Africa. Together, we move forward with renewed commitment to building sustainable social businesses and empowering the next generation of women leaders. #IWD2026 #SocialBusiness #WomenLedDevelopment

empower communities and create opportunities for brighter futures. Congratulations to all our graduates—this is just the beginning.

Today we celebrate the youth and women in Makhado, Limpopo Province who have successfully completed our year-long CBFL & BCS training programme. Their dedication, resilience, and commitment to learning have led them to this proud moment. We are proud to support journeys that —

“We don’t teach Literacy through pen and paper we teach using a computer or a laptop.” - Ms Riah Phiyega CEO WDB Trust sowetan.co.za//opinion/colum…