Women transforming businesses, communities, education and innovation will be recognised at the 2026 WomenCan Awards as the platform returns under the theme “Rebirth and Reinvention.”
The awards will form part of the A Night of Mystery Gala taking place in Midrand on 29 August, bringing together women whose leadership and work are creating opportunities and driving change across South Africa.
WomenCan positions the awards as a platform for recognising women who may not always receive widespread public attention despite making meaningful contributions within their industries and communities.
This year’s theme, “Rebirth and Reinvention”, focuses on women who are challenging established boundaries, building purpose-driven enterprises, strengthening communities and creating opportunities for other women.
“We are entering a bold new era of rebirth and reinvention, where community is power. The awards are dedicated to women who are breaking boundaries and redefining what it means to succeed and empower other women. That is the future we are building,” said WomenCan founder Tumi Mthembu.
The programme builds on the 2025 WomenCan Awards, which recognised recipients including DJ Zinhle, Ntando Zikalala, Prof Elelwani Ramugondo, Nozibele Mayaba, Dr Boitumelo Petla, Nomathamsanga Malatsi, Tanie Codes Organisation, Alex Boavida, Nompendulo Makhwatsha and Bokang Monjane Tshabalala.
This year, recognition will extend across several categories reflecting different forms of leadership, entrepreneurship, community contribution and empowerment.
Categories include The Powerhouse Award, The Sky Award, The Beacon of Home Award, The Butterfly Award, The Heart of Soul Award, The Cornerstone Award, The Mind Builder Award, The SheCan Award, The Voice Award and The Founder Award.
By recognising achievements across different areas of society, WomenCan aims to broaden the visibility of women whose work contributes to economic participation, community development and social progress.
The event will also create an opportunity for previous recipients to celebrate the next group of women being recognised, extending a network of women supporting and acknowledging one another’s achievements.
FASSET CEO Ayanda Mafuleka CA(SA) will deliver the keynote address.
A panel discussion will also explore real experiences of empowerment and transformation before the programme concludes with the awards ceremony.
Beyond recognising individual achievement, the WomenCan Awards aim to strengthen connections between women working across different sectors and create greater visibility for leadership and impact that can inspire others.
For Women’s Month, the 2026 awards provide another platform for moving beyond celebrating women’s achievements towards recognising how women are creating businesses, strengthening communities and opening opportunities for those who follow.
