Coffee and social entrepreneurship success is perfect brew for global recognition

Eunice Maeshibe Marema, a Tshwane University of Technology Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration alumna, Senior Military Officer (Major) in the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and Chief Executive Officer of Maeshibe Coffee, has earned international recognition after being named one of the Top International Women Entrepreneurs of the Year 2026.

Eunice Maeshibe Marema, a Senior Military Officer (Major) in the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and Chief Executive Officer of Maeshibe Coffee. She received the award in the Coffee Solutions & Social Entrepreneurship category at the International Women Awards 2026, recognising her commitment to ethical leadership, entrepreneurship and community impact.

The TUT Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration (PDBA) alumna has built a reputation for using entrepreneurship to create opportunities, strengthen communities and demonstrate purpose-driven leadership.

Reflecting on her international recognition, Marema said the award confirms she is moving in the right direction as an entrepreneur and leader.

"We believe in mentorship and representation and recognitions like this give credit to the work we do in society."

She said the award has also created new opportunities for her business by attracting international clients and showcasing South African coffee to global markets.

"This recognition demonstrates global reach and storytelling that resonates with people from all walks of life."

Marema believes entrepreneurship is vital for addressing South Africa's unemployment, particularly among young people aged 18 to 34.

"This means we are responsible for job creation. Government's role is to stimulate the economy and allow start-ups to exploit those opportunities by creating jobs."

Her latest international honour adds to an impressive list of achievements, including the Mail & Guardian Young South Africans Award in Entrepreneurship and the 40 Under 40 CEOs Award for African Economic Advancement.

Marema recently graduated with a Master of Management in Governance from the University of the Witwatersrand School of Governance, further strengthening her commitment to ethical leadership, entrepreneurship and social impact.