CAPE TOWN, South Africa,
The WomenIN Festival 2025 wrapped up a powerful two-day gathering at Newlands Cricket Ground (13–14 November), bringing together hundreds of women for an immersive programme focused on empowerment, leadership, wellbeing, entrepreneurship, financial literacy and social impact under the theme “Limitless: No Labels. No Limits. No Apologies.”
The festival featured panel discussions, dialogues, wellness sessions, entrepreneurship training, financial literacy masterclasses and storytelling engagements. Leigh-Anne Williams served as MC, energising and connecting the audience throughout.
In line with South Africa’s Entrepreneurship Month, the event placed strong emphasis on business and economic empowerment. FNB, the empowerment partner, led key sessions on financial literacy and business growth. Nicole Sykes, Head of Women in Business at FNB, highlighted the festival’s impact in equipping women with financial skills, business tools and personal resilience.
Speakers included Raksha Naidoo (Women in Mining SA), Thando Hopa (African Albinism Network), Joni Peddie (Global Speakers Federation), and rugby star Babalwa Latsha, who addressed leadership, representation, resilience and the rise of women in sport. Wellness experts Dr. Kate Klaasen and Dr. Simone Silver explored women’s burnout and holistic wellbeing.
A powerful GBV-focused session — Breaking the Silence, Rebuilding Lives — brought together MOSAIC and Women For Change, moderated by advocate Merlize Jogiat, offering tools for healing, safety and justice.
The Women-Owned Marketplace showcased diverse brands across beauty, fashion, wellness, food and lifestyle, reinforcing WomenIN’s commitment to economic empowerment. The festival concluded with a personal safety session by Fight Back SA.
Festival Founder Nazlee Fredericks-Maharaj said WomenIN 2025 demonstrated the transformative power of women gathering “without apology,” with plans already underway for a bigger 2026 edition.
The event closed with the 2025 Good Hope FM Warrior Women Awards, honouring women whose leadership continues to shape industries and communities.
By James Kisoo
