Young Leaders Connect
The Young Leaders Connect (YLC) is an initiative of the International Women’s Forum of South Africa (IWFSA), relaunched in August 2020 by IWFSA Patron, Dr. Zanele Mbeki. The YLC IDEAL Program is committed to
cultivating the next generation of ethical, young women leaders. As of January 2025, the program has onboarded 440 mentees, with 330 having successfully benefited from its mentorship and leadership development initiatives. With a vision to empower even more young leaders in the coming years, YLC continues to expand its impact. The program is overseen by a dedicated committee, which reports to the Leadership Development Committee (LDC) of IWFSA, chaired by IWFSA Board Member, Ms. Shirley Machaba.
Our sponsors
Our Initiatives
Each mentee is paired with an IWFSA mentor to enhance their soft skills and provide guidance on their professional journey. By 2025, YLC aims to mentor and support 400 young women to become adept, ethical leaders in their domains.
Mentorship
Each mentee is paired with a mentor to enhance their soft skills and provide guidance on their professional journey. By 2025, YLC aims to mentor and support 400 young women to become adept, ethical leaders in their domains.
Board Leadership
YLC organizes dialogues with organizations such as IOD, King Commission, DukeCE, and prominent law firms on board governance and leadership. The ambition is to position and train 20 young women for board roles and provide comprehensive board leadership training, mentoring, and networking opportunities by 2025.
Entrepreneurship
YLC incubates a selection of startups and SMMEs, hosting diverse sessions, including fundraisers,information dissemination, and training events. The goal is to extend tailored training, funding, and support to 50 women-led businesses by 2025.
Conversations
Monthly dialogues on pertinent topics are facilitated with renowned academics, industry leaders, civil society representatives, and government officials. These discussions are curated to stimulate critical thinking and equip participants with valuable insights.
Meet the YLC IDEAL Leadership
Explore our YLC IDEAL Leadership team, with two leaders assigned to each pillar, working together to inspire and shape future women leaders through mentorship and dedicated leadership initiatives.
Zandile Makhaya & Katekani Hlaise
Co-Chairpersons
Naledi Molesiane & Prof. Lethiwe Nzama-Sithole
Board Leadership
Kagiso Mavuka & Lufuno Munzhelele
Conversations
Lorraine Mooi & Dimpho Mashile
Entrepreneurship
Tina Mgidlana & Lufuno Lefowa
Book Club & Conversations
Refiloe Marei
Admin and Brand & Reputation
Mothate Sewelo
Editorial & Comms
Thobile Ngcobo
Strategic Alliance
Nwabisa Matyumza
Summit & Awards
Getrude Marape & Xolani Ngwenyama
Student Chapter
Events
IFWLP Cohort 7 Singapore Group Annual Reunion
- Jan 10, 2025
- Singapore
