One key theme discussed by every speaker at the Forbes Women Africa Leading Women Summit was leadership, innovation, and resilience.
Celebrating its 10th edition, the summit, held at the SunBet Arena, came alive with powerful trailblazers from sectors such as business, entertainment, technology, beauty, sports, and social impact. These women and men defied the odds to inspire and empower the next generation of African leaders.
This years theme “To The Power of 10: The Rule-Breakers in Africa’s Next Chapter”, reflected the transformative vision that these individuals embody. The event served as both a celebration of achievements and a call to action, reinforcing the message that the future of Africa is bright, being shaped by those who dare to imagine a new dawn of possibilities.
A Day of Inspiration and Thought Leadership
The summit opened with a keynote address from the Second Lady of South Africa, Humile Mashathile, who delivered an inspiring message about the importance of leadership in shaping Africa’s future. Her speech set the tone for a day filled with powerful conversations and discussions that addressed both the opportunities and challenges facing women and leaders in Africa today.
Renuka Methil, Managing Editor of FORBES WOMAN AFRICA, emphasised the significance of this year’s summit, noting the historic victories that have seen African artists rise to the global stage. She highlighted how Afrobeat artists have not only captured international attention but also become the soundtrack of a generation. According to Methil, “Today, we talk about the iconic moments and the victories where award-winning artists have shared the work of Afrobeat, and where the most influential voices in Africa come to speak.”
Key Discussions at the Summit
The summit featured thought-provoking panel discussions on a range of topics, from conscious leadership to technological innovation and sustainability. One session focused on the importance of building trust, transparency, and self-awareness in leadership. Experts emphasised the need for leaders who prioritise ethical practices and foster environments of openness and accountability.
Another discussion explored the role of technology and artificial intelligence (AI) in driving innovation and creating new opportunities for Africa’s future. This panel highlighted the work of celebrated technologists and coding specialists who are teaching AI and tech tools to the next generation of African leaders. Speakers discussed how AI could be harnessed as a force for good and collaboration, and the critical need for both the government and private sector to support young women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields.
Additionally, the summit addressed sustainability challenges, emphasising the urgency of taking action now to prevent environmental harm and safeguard the planet for future generations. The panellists advocated for increased awareness and action to address climate change, with a call for women leaders to take the lead in environmental advocacy.
Honouring Visionary Women
The 10th edition of the Forbes Women Africa Leading Women Summit was marked by the recognition of outstanding individuals across various fields. These award recipients embody the spirit of leadership and resilience that the summit seeks to honour each year.
The event continued its tradition of honouring International Women’s Day, held annually on March 8, by celebrating the achievements and accomplishments of women globally, with a particular focus on Africa. It serves as a critical platform for advancing Afro-optimism—a powerful narrative about Africa’s rising potential in the face of global challenges.
The 2025 edition showcased a prestigious list of award winners, each representing the pinnacle of excellence and impact in their respective fields. The honourees include pioneers in business, technology, entertainment, and social change, each of whom has made lasting contributions to Africa’s development and has inspired a new wave of leaders.
A Future Shaped by Bold Leadership
The Forbes Women Africa Leading Women Summit continues to be a beacon of empowerment for women across the continent. By celebrating not only achievements but also the courage, resilience, and tenacity required to break barriers, the summit reinforces the message that African women are pivotal in shaping the continent’s future. As these women continue to rise, their stories serve as powerful reminders of the impact that visionary leadership can have in transforming Africa’s narrative on the global stage.
