From Faith & Fear to The Brave Collective, Taryn’s work in business and women’s empowerment is recognised on a national stage.
Johannesburg, South Africa (17 April 2026) – Taryn Hunter Sharman, founder and Managing Director of Faith & Fear and The Brave Collective, has been named the Woman of Stature Entrepreneur of the Year. It’s a recognition, she says, that reflects not just business success, but a year-long process of reflection, scrutiny, and growth.
The award, which follows a rigorous selection process spanning several months, required nominees to be assessed through detailed applications, interviews, and financial evaluations before reaching the final stage.
“It is quite an arduous process,” she said. “You get nominated by someone who has seen your work, and then the interviews start almost a year in advance. By the time you get to the ceremony, you know you’ve really been checked and rechecked.”
But for Taryn, the process became more of a mirror.
“It makes you look at your business with different eyes. Day-to-day, you’re just in it, making it work, hustling. But when you have to fill out those forms and really reflect, you step back and see what you’ve actually built.”
At the centre of that work is Faith & Fear, a communications consultancy built on a “hub and spoke” model. Instead of a traditional agency structure, the business operates like a flexible network, with a core team supported by a wider ecosystem of independent specialists.
“It means we can employ more people, spread the wealth, and bring in expertise without needing everything in-house.”
She also spoke about the thinking behind the name Faith & Fear, and how it deliberately pushes against the usual “faith over fear” idea. For her, it’s not about choosing one over the other, but learning to live with both. Highlighting that fear is part of the process too. It is something to work with, not something to erase.
Taryn also leads The Brave Collective, a women’s empowerment platform built around self-worth, net worth, and network. Through events, content, and practical tools, the initiative aims to help women build financial independence and confidence.
One moment that stood out for her was hearing how women were using The Brave Collective’s materials in everyday life.
“Someone told me they started a book club where they go through our Brave Finder together,” she said. “Another woman told me she opened a tax-free savings account. That’s when you realise it’s not just a moment, it’s real change.”
For her, that ripple effect is the real measure of success.
“We’re changing lives, and those women go on to impact their families, their businesses, and their communities. That’s what matters.”
Looking ahead, Taryn says her focus remains on building systems that outlive her.
“I’ve never been interested in building something that only works for me,” she said. “If we can all build wealth, grow together, and spread opportunity, then that’s the point.”
For now, the Woman of Stature award adds another milestone to a journey that is still very much unfolding.
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