IWFSA AWARDS
Hall of Femme
The IWFSA Board established the Hall of Femme® Awards in March 2022. The awards are designed to honour and celebrate women who have broken barriers, shattered glass ceilings, and uplifted other women in their journeys toward success. They are celebrated for their unparalleled leadership, contributions to society, and ongoing commitment to empowering others. They are true role models, whose work continues to inspire women around the world. These women were recognized for their lifelong contributions and their roles as leaders who continue to inspire and empower others to create lasting change.
The fourth instalment of the IWFSA Hall of Femme took place on 1 October 2026 at The Polo Room, Inanda Club, Johannesburg. Under the theme “Legacy in Motion”, the event celebrated three extraordinary women whose leadership, courage and service have made a lasting contribution to society. The 2026 honourees were:
- Prof Anna Mokgokong: A pioneering business leader and entrepreneur, recognised for her contribution to economic transformation and the advancement of women in business.
- Ms Sibongile “Bongi” Mkhabela: A respected social justice advocate and development leader, recognised for her lifelong commitment to freedom, equality and the wellbeing of children and communities.
- Dr Gertrude Mongella: A distinguished African leader and champion of women’s rights, recognised for her contribution to gender equality and women’s participation in leadership across Africa and globally.
This year marked the third instalment of the prestigious awards, sponsored by Standard Bank. The event was guided by the theme “Leading with Purpose” and focused on IWFSA’s strategic pillars: Ignite, Inspire, and Impact.
- Mrs Wendy Ackerman: Co-founder of Pick n Pay, recognized for her significant contributions to business and society.
- Dr Naledi Pandor: Former Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of South Africa
- H.E. Mrs Monica Geingos: Former First Lady of Namibia, acknowledged for her global leadership in advancing women’s issues and social change.
Dr. Brigalia Bam: Former Chairperson of the Independent Electoral Commission of South
Africa.
- Advocate Mojanku Gumbi: Special Adviser on Racism in the Workplace at the United Nations.
- Ms. Winnie Byanyima: Executive Director of UNAIDS.
2022 marked the inaugural year of the Hall of Femme Awards, where IWFSA proudly inducted three exceptional into the IWFSA Hall of Femme®:
- Mrs. Zanele Mbeki: IWFSA women Founder and Patron.
- The late Dr. Frene Noshir Ginwala: Former Speaker of the National Assembly.
- Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala: Director General of the World Trade Organization.