South Africa’s leading platform for recognising female excellence, the Woman of Stature Awards South Africa, will host its prestigious 2026 Grand Finale on 11 April 2026 at a glamorous red carpet Gala Awards event in Johannesburg. Now in its 11th season and celebrating 13 years of impact, the Awards continue to honour women who are making meaningful contributions across industries and communities nationwide.
This year marks a milestone for the Awards, with over 1,000 nominations received from across South Africa – a powerful reflection of the growing influence and reach of the platform. Following successful regional launch events in Cape Town and KwaZulu-Natal, the 2026 Awards introduced a regional participation model, broadening access and ensuring that exceptional women from all corners of the country are recognised.
Since its inception in 2013, the Woman of Stature Awards has recognised close to 10,000 women, establishing itself as a benchmark for excellence, credibility, and impact. The Awards celebrate women who not only excel in their professional fields, but also drive innovation, uplift communities, and inspire future generations.
“The Woman of Stature Awards is a celebration of purpose-driven women who are shaping South Africa’s future,” says Charlotte du Plessis, Founder and CEO. “Reaching over 1,000 nominations from 5 provinces this year is a remarkable milestone and speaks to the depth of talent, resilience, and leadership among women in our country. These Awards are not just about recognition – they are about empowering women to grow, lead, and make a lasting difference.”
The 2026 Awards recognise excellence across 15 diverse categories, reflecting the breadth of women’s contributions across the economy and society. These include: CEO of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year, Woman in Community, Woman in Technology, Woman in Engineering & Mining, Woman in MICE, Tourism & Hospitality, Woman in Media & Journalism, Woman in Property, Woman in Financial Services, Woman in Legal Services, Woman in Arts & Culture, Woman in Automotive, Woman in Education and Training, Woman in Coaching & Mentoring, and Woman in Health & Wellness.
What distinguishes the Woman of Stature Awards is its unwavering commitment to integrity. The nomination and adjudication process is rigorous, inclusive, and transparent, involving independent panels of expert judges, structured evaluation criteria, and audited procedures. Nominees undergo a comprehensive process, including detailed submissions, verification, interviews, and scoring, ensuring that winners are selected based on merit, measurable impact, and leadership.
Beyond recognition, the Awards serve as a catalyst for growth and empowerment. Finalists and winners benefit from increased visibility, a carefully curated workshop series focused on their personal and professional development, networking opportunities, and access to mentorship, enabling them to elevate their personal and professional brands and unlock new opportunities.
The success of the 2026 Woman of Stature Awards South Africa is made possible through the support of its valued sponsors: Cyberlogic, NAACAM, iME, The NeuroCoach® & Mentor Institute, Sujen Fourie powered by MortgageMAX, DP World, Old Mutual Black Distributors Trust, UJ School of Business Centre for Entrepreneurship, and AvenirHoldings.
“We extend our sincere appreciation to our sponsors, whose commitment to empowering women makes this platform possible,” adds du Plessis. “Their support plays a vital role in recognising excellence and contributing to a more inclusive and thriving economy.”
As anticipation builds for the red carpet Gala Awards event, the 2026 Woman of Stature Awards South Africa promises an evening of celebration, inspiration, and recognition – honouring the extraordinary women who continue to lead with courage, innovate with purpose, and create lasting impact across South Africa, and to top it off, Lloyd Cele will have a dual role at the Gala Awards event as Master of Ceremonies and a live performance.
About the Woman of Stature Awards South Africa
Founded in 2013, the Woman of Stature Awards South Africa is one of the country’s most respected platforms dedicated to celebrating women who demonstrate excellence, leadership, and impact across industries and communities. With a legacy of integrity and empowerment, the Awards continue to inspire and uplift women nationwide.
SUPPLIED.
