The WomenIN Festival 2025 wrapped up its transformative two-day programme at Newlands Cricket Ground on 13–14 November, uniting hundreds of women from across South Africa for an immersive celebration of empowerment, leadership, wellbeing, entrepreneurship and social impact.
Held under the bold theme “Limitless: No Labels. No Limits. No Apologies,” the festival created a dynamic and affirming space for women to connect, reflect and gain practical tools to elevate every dimension of their lives.
A Two-Day Experience of Depth, Dialogue and Development
The comprehensive programme featured panel discussions, interactive dialogues, wellness sessions, entrepreneurship workshops, financial literacy masterclasses and storytelling-driven conversations — all curated to explore identity, resilience, innovation, leadership and holistic wellbeing.
Serving as MC, acclaimed Radio & TV Presenter Leigh-Anne Williams brought warmth, energy and sharp insight, ensuring a seamless flow across the two days and keeping the audience actively engaged.
Spotlight on Entrepreneurship and Financial Empowerment
Aligned with South Africa’s national Entrepreneurship Month, WomenIN amplified its focus on economic empowerment. Attendees were equipped with tangible strategies for starting and growing businesses, understanding financial behaviour and navigating real-world entrepreneurial challenges.
Empowerment partner FNB played a central role, leading key sessions on business development and financial literacy. Nicole Sykes, Head of Women in Business at FNB, emphasised the festival’s impact:
“WomenIN brings together courage, collaboration and practical tools in a way that genuinely empowers women. The women who attended left with financial knowledge, business skills, emotional resilience and personal safety strategies that will continue to uplift them long after these two days.”
Voices Shaping South Africa’s Future
The festival brought together influential leaders, experts and changemakers:
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Raksha Naidoo, Chair of Women in Mining South Africa and CEO of the Particle Group, highlighted structural transformation and decisive leadership in one of the nation’s most male-dominated industries.
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Thando Hopa, lawyer, activist, Cultural Leader for the African Albinism Network and UN Ambassador for Diversity and Inclusion, delivered a powerful session on representation and the narratives that shape society.
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Joni Peddie, Vice President of the Global Speakers Federation, explored emotional agility, resilience and intentional leadership, urging women to lead from authenticity and self-awareness.
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Babalwa Latsha, trailblazer in women’s rugby, led a sports-focused dialogue that shed light on visibility gaps, cultural barriers and the urgent need for greater investment in female athletes.
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In the Wellness Resolution segment, Dr. Kate Klaasen and Dr. Simone Silver unpacked burnout and stressed holistic wellbeing across physical, emotional, social and spiritual planes.
Confronting Gender-Based Violence with Courage and Clarity
One of the festival’s most powerful sessions, Breaking the Silence, Rebuilding Lives, tackled the urgent and pervasive issue of GBV in South Africa. Moderated by Merlize Jogiat, GBV Advocate and COO of Women For Change, the session featured MOSAIC and Women For Change, amplifying survivor voices and offering practical pathways to healing, safety and justice.
Uplifting Women-Owned Businesses
The WomenIN Marketplace brought vibrant colour and entrepreneurial spirit to the festival grounds, spotlighting a wide array of women-owned brands across fashion, beauty, wellness, food, jewellery, homeware and lifestyle essentials. The space encouraged authentic connections between entrepreneurs and consumers, reinforcing the festival’s commitment to economic upliftment.
Prioritising Safety and Self-Protection
The event closed with a high-impact personal safety session led by Fight Back SA, equipping women with practical awareness and self-protection tools — aligning directly with WomenIN’s mission to empower women mentally, emotionally, physically and economically.
A Festival That Became a Movement
Festival Founder and Founding Portfolio Director Nazlee Fredericks-Maharaj reflected on the success and spirit of WomenIN 2025:
“This year reminded us of the power that unfolds when women gather with purpose and without apology. When women refuse to be boxed and boldly own their space — holistically and phenomenally — systems shift. WomenIN 2025 brought that vision to life in the most powerful and authentic way. We are already shaping something extraordinary for WomenIN 2026. For those who missed it this year — this wasn’t just a festival, it was a revolution. In 2026, it’s coming back louder, bolder and more unapologetic than ever.”
Honouring Excellence: The 2025 Good Hope FM Warrior Women Awards
The festival concluded with the prestigious Good Hope FM Warrior Women Awards, celebrating women whose leadership, innovation and impact continue to shape industries, communities and national narratives.
