On Saturday, 11 March, 30 of South Africa’s most prominent women will be taking to the stage at Emperors Palace to compete for one of the eight awards. Shannon (25), who completed a BA-degree in Communication Science and Psychology in 2013, will be participating in the Youth Ambassador category. She says she is “beyond thrilled” to be nominated for this prestigious award.
A passion for children and education
As the co-founder and Managing Director of DeskBags – a non-profit organisation that produces functional, eco-friendly schoolbags that also provide a portable desk solution, Shannon is a go-getter with a passion for children and education.
“It gives me great pleasure knowing that DeskBags is making a noticeable difference in many of the lives of the estimated 3.1 million learners without proper school desks in South Africa. I am a firm believer that education is the vaccine to poverty,” says Shannon and adds that recognition should also be given to corporate South Africa for helping to make a sustainable change in the lives of future leaders.
A DeskBag is a hybrid satchel that acts as a fully functional schoolbag which folds open into a portable desk that learners can use at school and at home. It is furthermore made from 100 percent recyclable billboard materials. Through corporate sponsorships, DeskBags are donated to needy schools free of charge.
Eight different categories
The Woman of Stature Awards: Woman of the Year sees women competing in eight different categories. The categories include:
- Woman in Community
- Woman in Business
- Woman in Finance
- Woman in Media
- Woman in Healthcare
- Woman in Education
- Woman Entrepreneur
- Youth Ambassador
- Director’s Special Award, and
- Woman of the Year
The annual Woman of the Year Awards are not limited to any particular field or endeavour, and for this reason rank among the most prestigious awards in South Africa for women. Launched in April 2013, Woman Of Stature’s purpose is to inspire and empower women from all walks of life, as well as to raise awareness and much needed funds for charities through various projects and fund raising initiatives.
Woman Of Stature, Director Charlotte du Plessis says, “The 30 nominees are each prominent within their respective communities and have reached considerable heights within their careers. They each reflect our values and focus at Woman Of Stature, which is empowering other women whether through active mentorship, or just by setting the example for leading a purposeful life.”
* Shannon’s mother, Madelain Roscher, is also a finalist in the category: Woman in Media. Madelain is the Managing Director of PR Worx.
Shannon Roscher, alumna of the NWU Vaal, is a go-getter with a passion for children and education.
