Celebrating Women’s Leadership at the Forbes Woman Africa Leading Women Summit 2026
In honor of International Women’s Month, the Forbes Woman Africa Leading Women Summit is making its grand return to Johannesburg on March 18, 2026. This influential gathering will unite over 1,000 leaders from diverse sectors including business, policy, investment, and the creative industries, all assembled in Sandton.
From Humble Beginnings to Major Influence
The summit has evolved dramatically from a modest assembly of 100 determined women to one of Africa’s leading platforms for female empowerment. This year’s theme, The Voice, Vision, and Victories of Her Africa, aims to highlight women who are transforming industries, reshaping narratives, and driving significant economic change.
Highlighting South African Voices
Prominent figures from South Africa will be spotlighted at the summit, including Rachel Kolisi and Melissa Nyamuli, who each exemplify powerful leadership in their unique ways.
Rachel Kolisi: Advocate for Women’s Rights
Rachel Kolisi stands out as a leading advocate for women’s rights and community development in South Africa. By championing social impact initiatives that focus on dignity, equity, and accessibility, Kolisi reflects a shift in how philanthropy intertwines with accountability and sustainable development.
Melissa Nyamuli: A New Era of Leadership
Crowned Miss Universe South Africa 2025, Melissa Nyamuli represents a fresh wave of leadership blending creativity with entrepreneurship. As the founder of Chosi Chosi, she leverages storytelling to elevate African narratives, emphasizing the partnership between cultural impact and business strategies.
Diverse Voices Shaping Africa’s Future
This year’s lineup is not limited to South African voices but features a diverse range of influential women from across the continent.
Penny Coelen: A Historical Figure
Penny Coelen made history when she won Miss World in 1958, giving South Africa a platform on the international stage during a critical era.
Mahlet Afework: Champion of Sustainable Fashion
Ethiopian designer Mahlet Afework is making waves in the fashion industry as the founder of MAFI MAFI. She advocates for sustainable African fashion, ensuring Ethiopian designs gain international recognition.
Connie Mashaba: A Business Pioneer
Connie Mashaba, managing director of Black Like Me, showcases the success of homegrown enterprises while contributing to social development and economic inclusivity.
Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu: Driving Innovation
Entrepreneur Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu has established globally recognized brands, such as soleRebels, while also pioneering electric vehicle initiatives in Ethiopia through her company, Oasis Motors.
Akuvi: Blending Music and Culture
Ghanaian Afro-soul artist Akuvi captivates audiences with her fusion of R&B, neo-soul, and Afrobeats, performing across Africa and Europe.
Zainab Jama: Youth Advocacy in Action
Combining her title of Miss World Somalia 2025 with her philanthropy, Zainab Jama is making strides in youth leadership and advocacy through the Female Initiative Foundation.
Lara Markthaler: A Sporting Icon
On the sports front, South African alpine ski racer Lara Markthaler is set to represent her nation at the Milano–Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, showcasing national pride on a global stage.
The Summit’s Significance
These women epitomize a wide range of heritage, creativity, and advocacy, reinforcing the summit’s theme of voice, vision, and victory across Africa.
Exploring Key Issues
For over a decade, the summit has played a vital role in amplifying women across various domains including enterprise, technology, and sustainability. This year’s program will address how women in executive positions are navigating economic challenges, building resilient organizations, and fostering innovation in critical sectors such as fintech and healthtech.
Spotlight on Personal Journeys
A highlight of the event is the poignant Spotlight segment, where entrepreneurs and creatives share inspiring personal stories of resilience and reinvention. The summit will conclude with the prestigious FORBES WOMAN AFRICA Awards, acknowledging women whose impactful achievements are reshaping industries and influencing global narratives.
A Message of Empowerment
This summit not only celebrates the accomplishments of African women but also emphasizes their significant role as investable, scalable assets vital to the continent’s future.
