On Friday, 8 March, in celebration of International Women’s Day, the 2024 FORBES WOMAN AFRICA Awards, the capstone event of the ninth FORBES WOMAN AFRICA Leading Women Summit, hosted its glitzy red carpet gala dinner at Emperors Palace, Johannesburg, to honor the phenomenal women who have deconstructed gender and generational disparities, changed the narrative around the role of women in society, and who have positioned themselves as exemplary beacons for the next generation, equipping them for future leadership positions in various fields.
This year saw three special categories added to the nine existing accolades, namely Media Icon, African Investment Catalyst, and Champion of Change awards. This year’s winners join a stellar list of esteemed alumni, amongst these luminaries are the likes of Angelique Kidjo, Hellen Obiri, H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Tatjana Schoenmaker, Michaela Mycroft, Nomcebo Zikode, Wendy Luhabe, Gloria Serobe, Louisa Mojela, Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, Elsa Majimbo and more.
In her closing remarks at the star-studded gala evening, Roberta Naicker, Managing Director of the ABN Group, recalled riveting moments captured during the summit, honored winners and nominees, and reminded the room that despite challenges, as a collective, society can create a more sustainable and just world for future generations.
Said Naicker: “Throughout the summit, more than fifty eminent and distinguished individuals shared their personal stories of perseverance and resolve in their journeys. We’ve laughed, danced, and cried today, but tonight we’re celebrating the women who are shaping the future, making significant contributions to historical progress, and breaking barriers in every industry and sector. These celebrations blended seamlessly with the wide range of emotions and activities that defined the ninth-anniversary edition of our signature event.” She further encouraged each individual by daring them to dream and strive for a better tomorrow.
The 2024 FORBES WOMAN AFRICA Award Category Winners:
(In no particular order)
- FORBES WOMAN AFRICA African Investment Catalyst Award – Clare Akamanzi, CEO, NBA Africa
- FORBES WOMAN AFRICA Young Achiever Award – Zuriel Oduwole, Global Education Advocate, Filmmaker and Presidential Advisor
- FORBES WOMAN AFRICA Social Impact Award – Thando Gumede, South African advocate and gender activist
- FORBES WOMAN AFRICA Technology & Innovation Award – Hilda Moraa, Founder & CEO, Pezesha
- FORBES WOMAN AFRICA Youth Icon Award – Charlot Magayi, CEO & Founder, Mukuru Clean Stoves
- FORBES WOMAN AFRICA Academic Excellence Award – Prof. Quarraisha Abdool Karim, Associate Scientific Director, CAPRISA
- FORBES WOMAN AFRICA Sports Award – Desiree Ellis, Head Coach, Banyana Banyana
- FORBES WOMAN AFRICA Champion of Change Award – Caster Semenya, South African Middle-distance Runner
- FORBES WOMAN AFRICA Entertainer Award – Nomzamo Mbatha, South African Actress
- FORBES WOMAN AFRICA Media Icon Award – Connie Ferguson, South African Actress
- FORBES WOMAN AFRICA Businesswoman Award – Mo Abudu, Nigerian Media Mogul
- FORBES WOMAN AFRICA Lifetime Achievement Award – Graça Machel, Founder, The Graça Machel Trust
It was a historic evening filled with ebullient moments and live performances by R&B dio, Mars Baby and lordkez, presented by Steyn Entertainment, former Jamali member, Mariechan, as well as awe-inspiring and creatively executed dance performances by CP Entertainment, owned by award-winning South African and internationally recognized ‘B-Girl’ and choreographer, Courtnae Paul. After the award formalities, Paul, also a DJ by profession, was behind the decks, for the live after-party entertainment.
The 2024 FORBES WOMAN AFRICA Leading Women Summit and Gala Awards were proudly presented by McDonald’s South Africa, in partnership with Visa, Air Products, L’Oréal Paris, African Bank, KPMG Africa, Hollywood Group, Pura Soda, Johnnie Walker Blue Label, Mercedes-Benz South Africa, PR Worx, CNBC Africa and Jacaranda FM.
For more information about the summit and awards, please visit our website at www.leadingwomensummit.co.za, or follow our social media platforms for updates and announcements on future events.
