KNYSNA NEWS - In a landmark step for gender representation in local business leadership, Beverley Pothier has recently been elected as the first female chairperson in the history of the Greater Knysna Business Chamber (GKBC).
In an exclusive interview with the Knysna-Plett Herald, she described this milestone as both an honour and a responsibility.
While the milestone holds personal significance, Pothier emphasises progress over symbolism.
Background
Her career began in advertising in the late 1990s, when senior roles were largely male-dominated. Rather than letting barriers define her path, she focused on learning, hard work and merit-based advancement.
She navigated corporate and small-business environments before launching her own venture as head of an internet service provider. That same pragmatic, collaborative and results-driven philosophy now guides her leadership at the GKBC.
Revitalising the CBD
Central to the Chamber's 2026 theme, 'Back to Business', is a straightforward priority: a functional town is the foundation of economic growth. Pothier's immediate focus is revitalising Knysna's central business district (CBD), the engine of the local economy.
Under her leadership, the Chamber has already united stakeholders to form the Knysna CBD Improvement District (KCID), with key initial priorities including relocating the waste transfer station, upgrading sidewalks, strengthening by-law enforcement and safety measures, establishing a secure transit hub, and reinstating tidal flaps to safeguard infrastructure during heavy rains.
"These aren't cosmetic fixes. Without them, expecting investors or businesses to commit to the CBD is unrealistic," Pothier explained.
She stressed that public-private partnerships would be essential in achieving these goals, alongside efforts to address homelessness through structured support programmes and to strengthen the town's destination marketing strategy.
Knysna's infrastructure
Pothier avoids political point-scoring, attributing Knysna's infrastructure woes to decades of underinvestment and frequent leadership changes, not any single administration.
"The Chamber's 2025 decision against supporting a Section 139 intervention stemmed from research, not politics. Our concern was whether it would deliver real outcomes or create more instability. Positioning itself as the '12th Ward', the GKBC serves as a unified, solution-focused voice for business."
Unemployment
To tackle unemployment, Pothier stresses retaining existing businesses and attracting new investment, both dependent on stability, confidence and skills.
The Chamber partners with the Garden Route Skills Mecca to place students in work-integrated learning programmes, providing businesses with capacity while offering learners funded, real-world experience.
Initiatives like the Knysna Education and Skills Hub and monthly networking events such as The Boerie Bash foster skills development, connections and growth.
"Supporting small and emerging enter-prises, particularly those owned by women and youth, remains a key focus.
Through initiatives such as the Knysna Education and Skills Hub and partnerships with the Garden Route Skills Mecca, the Chamber aims to promote skills development and work-integrated learning opportunities."
Pothier said the organisation also seeks to strengthen communication with business owners who feel disconnected, encouraging greater participation and collaboration.
"I understand why some feel disconnected. That means we must communicate better and increase visibility," she said.
Environment
When asked about preserving Knysna's sensitive natural environment, Pothier underlined that its sustainability is non-negotiable.
"Through the Knysna Business Intelligence Hub, led by risk analyst Audrey Hesakkers, the Chamber integrates research and risk analysis into decisions.
Upcoming efforts include a Green Energy Conference and renewed emphasis on the blue economy, particularly boat-building, to reduce energy risks and drive sustainable growth. A members' code of conduct is also in development to promote responsible practices and boost community credibility."
Volunteer-driven
Above all, Pothier points out that the Chamber runs on volunteers, business owners who donate time because they believe in Knysna's future.
Looking ahead five years, Pothier says she hopes her tenure will be defined by improved communication, increased investment and stronger collaboration within the business community.
"Real change doesn't happen overnight. But meaningful progress does happen when people take consistent, deliberate steps together."
Business owners can contact the chamber at [email protected]
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