The Forbes Woman Africa Leading Women Summit 2026 turned the Sandton Convention Centre into a hub of inspiration and influence on March 18, as women from across Africa gathered to share ideas, celebrate success, and build connections.
The full-day event, hosted by Forbes Africa, was divided into three parts: the summit, the awards ceremony, and an after-party. Throughout the day, speakers and guests engaged in meaningful conversations about leadership, innovation, and the role of women in shaping the continent’s future.
This year’s theme, The Voice, Vision and Victories of Her Africa, focused on amplifying women’s voices and recognising real impact across industries.
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The summit featured a wide range of panel discussions, including topics such as unlocking a growth mindset during economic uncertainty, the future of artificial intelligence, leadership and legacy, sustainable development, and mental health care. One of the standout sessions explored fashion’s transformative power, led by Precious Moloi-Motsepe.
While the event centred on women, it also highlighted the role of men as allies in supporting and advancing women’s leadership.
Addressing attendees, Max Oliva, the CEO of McDonald’s SA, announced the company’s partnership with the summit.
“McDonald’s South Africa is happy to announce its partnership with the Forbes Leading Women Summit 2026, reinforcing the company’s commitment to advancing women’s leadership and creating pathways for growth across the business landscape in Africa.”
Oliva added that investing in women is not only socially important but also makes strong business sense.
“The data consistently shows that diverse leadership teams produce stronger governance, better decision-making, and greater innovation. When organisations create clear pathways for women to lead, the benefits extend far beyond the workplace.”
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He said that women make up over 60% of McDonald’s South Africa’s workforce, with 64% of restaurant managers and around 40% of leadership roles held by women. Opening the summit, Renuka Methil, the managing editor of Forbes Woman Africa, reflected on global challenges and the importance of unity.
“In a highly connected world, each one of us is affected. A war in one region can impact economies across the globe,” she said. Methil also honoured the legacy of the 1956 Women’s March, where 20 000 women marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria.
“They had purpose and conviction, and that conviction shaped history. When we speak about female excellence today, we continue their legacy.” She emphasised that the summit is more than a gathering; it is a platform for action and collaboration.
“This is a room where you receive inspiration, but it is also a space to move beyond ideas and take action,” Methil added. As the day moved from discussions to a celebration evening, the summit showed the power of women coming together to learn, lead, and uplift one another.
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