The International Women’s Forum South Africa (IWFSA) will host the fourth edition of its prestgious Hall of Femme Awards on 1 October 2026 in Johannesburg, running under the theme ‘Legacy in Motion’.
Standard Bank has returned as the anchor sponsor for the 2026 event. Established in 2022, the Hall of Femme honours female trail-blazers who have broken barriers, shattered glass ceilings, and dedicated their leadership to uplifting others.
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A legacy of leadership
The 2026 theme, ‘Legacy in Motion’, challenges leaders to consider the ongoing impact of their choices, framing legacy not just as a final mark left behind, but as the active opportunities and pathways created for future generations.
Previous Hall of Femme inductees include a distinguished list of continental and local icons:
- 2022: Mrs Zanele Mbeki, the late Dr Frene Noshir Ginwala, and Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.
- 2023: Dr Brigalia Bam, Advocate Mojanku Gumbi, and Ms Winnie Byanyima.
- 2024: Mrs Wendy Ackerman, Dr Naledi Pandor, and H.E. Mrs Monica Geingos.
“Legacy is not simply about what we leave behind; it is about what we set in motion,” said IWFSA President, Adv Thandi Orleyn. “The women recognised in the Hall of Femme remind us that leadership has the power to open doors, build institutions, empower others, and create possibilities that extend far beyond any one individual.”
The Ripple Effect
The creative concept for the evening draws on ‘The Ripple Effect’, the evening will feature interactive elements like a Legacy Wall and a Signature Legacy Installation to visually represent collective female empowerment and sisterhood.
The event’s structured programme will unfold in three distinct chapters – ‘The Courage to Begin’, ‘The Ripple Effect’, and ‘The Impact that Continues’ blending keynote discussions on ethical stewardship with spoken word, youth dance, and artistic performances.
“Our partnership with IWFSA reflects a shared commitment in recognising women whose leadership is creating lasting impact,” said Margaret Nienaber, Chief Operating Officer at Standard Bank Group. “The Hall of Femme provides an important platform to celebrate women who are breaking barriers, creating opportunities and contributing to a stronger future for generations to come.”
The awards form part of IWFSA’s wider mandate to foster systemic change and ethical leadership across Africa through dedicated developmental programmes, including Young Leaders Connect and the Fellowship for Women Leaders Programme Alumni.
