The Forbes Woman Africa Leading Women Summit 2026 brought together influential voices at the Sandton Convention Centre on March 18, highlighting the growing impact of women across Africa.

Read more: Women lead the conversation at Forbes Woman Africa Summit 2026

Hosted by Forbes Africa, the event combined a summit, an awards ceremony, and a celebratory gathering, creating a space for learning, recognition, and networking. Under the theme: The Voice, Vision, and Victories of Her Africa, the summit explored leadership, innovation, and social impact through a series of panel discussions. Topics ranged from economic resilience and artificial intelligence to sustainability and mental health.

Opening the event, Renuka Methil, the managing editor of Forbes Woman Africa, reflected on global uncertainty and the importance of unity, while also honouring the legacy of the 1956 Women’s March. “They had purpose and conviction, and that conviction shaped history. Today, we continue that legacy,” she said.

One of the standout sessions, Lessons on Unlocking the Growth Mindset Amid Economic Uncertainties, brought practical insights from business leaders navigating challenging environments.

Connie Mashaba reflected on the early days of building Black Like Me during apartheid, highlighting just how difficult it was for black-owned businesses to operate. “When we started, we didn’t have infrastructure. As a black business, you were not allowed to operate freely in South Africa. We started in a small 200m² factory, and we didn’t even have a phone.”

Also read: G20 summit exposes South Africa’s hospitality strengths and weaknesses

Mashaba added that access to funding was one of the biggest challenges. “We had very expensive funding. Today, people say funding is a problem, but back then it was even more difficult.” Despite these challenges, she emphasised that resilience and determination were key to success. “I think the tools can still be applied today, but now they are much easier to access. There are more opportunities, especially for women in South Africa.”

Adding to the conversation, Andreata Muforo, the partner of TLCOM Capital LLP, encouraged entrepreneurs to focus on making the most of what they already have. “You have to maximise what you have and be innovative with limited resources.” Muforo also outlined three key traits needed to build and scale a successful business in today’s climate. “The first is the ability to attract talent. Without people, you cannot build a business. The second is access to capital and having a clear strategy. The third is adaptability, because markets are constantly changing.”

She added that founders must clearly understand their value and how they stand out in the market. “Are you offering something at a lower cost or a better product? You need to be clear on your differentiation,” she said.

Business leader and McDonald’s SA CEO Max Oliva also confirmed the company’s partnership with the summit. “Across Africa, women are driving innovation, strengthening communities, and shaping the future of business. We are proud to partner with Forbes Africa for the Leading Women Summit.”

Follow us on our WhatsApp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration!