The event marked one of the largest gatherings in the event’s history as women leaders from across the continent reflected on resilience, innovation and leadership in uncertain times. Held in celebration of International Women’s Day, the summit highlighted the transformative role women continue to play in business, public service, science, the creative industries and social impact sectors.
Speaking to Channel Africa on Friday, Renuka Methil, Managing Editor of Forbes and Forbes Woman Africa, described the occasion as both emotional and energising. “When we started 11 years ago, it was 10 tables and 100 women in the room. Now we are oversubscribed, with nearly 1 500 people in attendance and many more joining online,” she said. “It is an incredible feeling to bring together such powerful role models who inspire the next generation.”
This year’s theme, The Voice, Vision and Victories of Her Africa, focused on the continent’s young and female demographic and the critical role women play in economic growth. Methil emphasised that the summit celebrates women from all sectors, including those whose work is often overlooked. “We feature women from unheard‑of sectors, the unsung heroines. It is not only about business titans but leaders in sport, the arts, science and public service,” she said.
Speakers included the first female Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Congo and former Ethiopian president Sahle‑Work Zewde, both of whom shared experiences of driving inclusion and policy reform in their countries. Panels explored themes such as artificial intelligence, fintech, climate change, C‑suite leadership and diversity, equity and inclusion.
One standout discussion focused on caregivers and the undervalued support systems behind women’s professional success. “Support structures are rarely celebrated, yet they make leadership possible for so many women,” Methil said.
She noted that the summit’s growing impact is visible in stories from attendees. “When someone tells me they started a business, wrote a book or became a lawyer because they were inspired at this summit, that is measurable action,” she said.
–ChannelAfrica–
