Johannesburg, South Africa – , will see the return of the FORBES WOMAN AFRICA Leading Women Summit, held at the Sandton Convention Centre. This year’s edition, the 11th, promises a compelling program centered around women’s empowerment and economic resilience across the African continent, and will feature prominent figures including Rachel Kolisi and Melissa Nayimuli.
The announcement, widely reported across South African media, highlights the growing significance of the summit as a key event on the international calendar, timed to coincide with International Women’s Day (). The summit isn’t simply a celebration of achievement; it’s designed to foster pivotal conversations and provide a platform for exclusive panels and one-on-one interviews, aiming to drive tangible progress for women in business and leadership.
Rachel Kolisi, a name synonymous with resilience and leadership in South Africa, will be a headline speaker. While details of her specific contribution haven’t been released, Kolisi’s profile extends beyond her personal story. She’s become a powerful advocate for social change and a symbol of hope, particularly through her work with the Kolisi Foundation. Her presence at the summit signals a commitment to addressing broader societal challenges alongside economic empowerment.
Joining Kolisi is Melissa Nayimuli, whose participation underscores the summit’s pan-African focus. Details regarding Nayimuli’s specific role are currently limited, but her inclusion suggests a focus on emerging leaders and innovative approaches to business within the African context. The summit consistently seeks to amplify voices from across the continent, recognizing the diverse experiences and challenges faced by women in different regions.
The FORBES WOMAN AFRICA Leading Women Summit has established itself as a crucial forum for networking and knowledge-sharing. It attracts a diverse audience, including entrepreneurs, executives, policymakers, and investors. The event’s success lies in its ability to connect these stakeholders and facilitate collaborations that can drive economic growth and create opportunities for women.
The choice of Johannesburg as the host city is also significant. South Africa, despite its own socio-economic challenges, remains a major economic hub in Africa and a gateway for investment. Hosting the summit in Johannesburg reinforces its position as a center for innovation and entrepreneurship.
The 2026 summit is particularly noteworthy given the evolving global landscape. Economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, and the ongoing impact of the pandemic continue to disproportionately affect women. The summit’s focus on economic resilience is therefore more relevant than ever. It provides a space to discuss strategies for navigating these challenges and building sustainable businesses.
While the full agenda for the summit remains under wraps, the inclusion of Kolisi and Nayimuli provides a strong indication of the themes and priorities that will be addressed. Expect discussions around access to funding, mentorship opportunities, and the importance of creating inclusive workplaces. The summit is likely to explore innovative solutions to address the systemic barriers that continue to hinder women’s progress.
The event’s organizers have consistently emphasized the importance of creating a platform for women to share their stories and inspire others. The summit isn’t just about high-level discussions; it’s about fostering a sense of community and empowering women to take control of their own destinies.
The 2026 FORBES WOMAN AFRICA Leading Women Summit represents a significant moment for the continent. By bringing together influential leaders and fostering meaningful conversations, it has the potential to drive positive change and create a more equitable future for women across Africa. The participation of figures like Rachel Kolisi and Melissa Nayimuli will undoubtedly add to the summit’s impact and inspire a new generation of female leaders.
Further details regarding the summit’s agenda, speakers, and registration information can be found on the official website: https://www.leadingwomensummit.co.za/event/2f802b80-5a67-4a82-ab19-23fc5996e2f7/summary
