BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MBABANE – Get ready for an unforgettable celebration of female empowerment and leadership at the SheReignsAfrica Network Summit and African Women Achievers Award 2025.
The summit will be hosted at the prestigious Sandton Hotel, Johannesburg, on August 30, 2025, the historic gathering will honor 100 of Africa’s most influential women, shining a light on their remarkable contributions to the continent.
The summit was founded by Natasha Mncube, a powerful advocate for women’s empowerment and a prominent figure in the African leadership landscape. Her dedication to uplifting women and creating platforms for their voices to be heard is evident in the success of this initiative. Mncube’s work extends beyond this summit; she also serves as the Director of the Shinning Stars Foundation and is the Southern Africa Brand Ambassador for the Zikomo Africa Awards. These roles highlight her commitment to fostering a supportive community for women and empowering them to excel.
The celebration promises to be a transformative experience, showcasing the power and potential of women across various sectors. Among those to be awarded at the SheReignsAfrica event are trailblazers from diverse backgrounds, including Mbalenhle Manana from Eswatini, confirmed by the event’s visionary founder, Natasha Mncube. Manana has made significant strides in the fashion industry by successfully running Eswatini’s top model agency.
“Being one of the speakers for the She Reigns Africa Summit and the 100 African Female Change Maker’s Awards evokes many feelings and experiences for me,” Manana reflects . “There’s excitement in sharing my journey and insights with a passionate audience. It’s a great opportunity to inspire and motivate others. Of course, there’s nervousness; speaking in front of a large group can be intimidating, with concerns about public speaking and audience engagement. However, engaging with fellow women founders is incredibly empowering. It’s a fantastic chance to connect with like-minded individuals who share similar experiences and challenges. Overall, speaking at such events can be a transformative and fulfilling experience, combining personal growth with the opportunity to contribute to a larger movement on the continent” , she narrates.
A SUMMIT OF INSPIRATION AND KNOWLEDGE
The SheReignsAfrica Network Summit serves as a powerful knowledge-sharing platform where established and emerging leaders come together to engage in insightful discussions, masterclasses, and innovation talks. According to mncube, Attendees can expect to delve into topics such as entrepreneurship, leadership, wellness, fashion, finance, digital influence, and social impact. This dynamic environment encourages collaboration and inspires participants to take actionable steps toward their goals.
The summit is designed to foster connections among women from various sectors, creating a space for networking and mentorship. Participants will have the opportunity to learn from their peers, share experiences, and gain valuable insights from industry experts. The event not only celebrates achievements but also aims to equip women with the tools they need to navigate their respective fields effectively.
As the day unfolds, the summit transitions into the African Women Achievers Awards Gala, a glamorous red-carpet event that recognizes the extraordinary work of 100 African women. These honorees represent diverse fields, including business, health, arts, education, media, governance, technology, and social transformation. By celebrating these achievements, the event seeks to highlight the incredible impact women are making across the continent and inspire future generations to continue this legacy of empowerment.
SPEAKERS AND THOUGHT LEADERS
The event will feature a lineup of esteemed speakers who are leaders in their respective fields. These influential figures will share their insights and experiences, providing attendees with the knowledge and motivation needed to excel. Among the notable speakers will be:
– Portia Mngomezulu, founder of a leading skincare brand known for promoting economic inclusion among women. Her journey exemplifies the power of entrepreneurship in driving social change and empowering communities.
– Melissa Kween, a creative strategist and youth development leader from Nigeria, who has made a bold impact across West Africa. Her work focuses on harnessing the potential of young people to drive positive change in their communities.
– Dr. Pert, an influential cosmetic surgeon from South Africa, who is redefining beauty and confidence through her innovative approaches to medical aesthetics. Her insights will inspire attendees to embrace their uniqueness and foster self-confidence.
– Luminista Jemwa, a fashion mogul and wellness advocate from Zimbabwe, will share her experiences in luxury branding and mental health awareness. Her perspective will highlight the intersection of fashion and personal well-being.
These speakers, along with many others, will contribute to a rich tapestry of knowledge and inspiration, making the SheReignsAfrica Network Summit and Awards a must-attend event for anyone passionate about female empowerment.
The SheReignsAfrica Network Summit and Awards promise not only to celebrate achievements but also to create a lasting legacy of empowerment for women everywhere.
This event represents a significant step toward building a supportive community that uplifts and inspires women across Africa. As the world watches, the SheReignsAfrica Network Summit is set to make history—honoring remarkable women and igniting the spirit of change across the continent.
(Courtesy Pics)


