Johannesburg, South Africa, From coding the backbone of networks to scaling groundbreaking enterprises, women in ICT are shaping South Africa’s digital future. On 20 November 2025, the Innovator Trust Women in Tech Awards will return to celebrate these changemakers, honoring female founders, leaders, and innovators who continue to push boundaries and redefine success in the tech space.

This year’s theme, “Shaping Her Growth: Code it. Shape it. Scale it.”, highlights women-owned SMMEs that are building strong foundations, sharpening leadership, and expanding their enterprises into influential, lasting brands.

A Celebration of Innovation and Impact

As one of the most anticipated events for women in ICT, the Women in Tech Awards continues to spotlight the brilliant minds transforming South Africa’s technology landscape. The 2025 edition promises a unique and empowering experience, recognising excellence, innovation, and the powerful role of women in shaping the country’s digital economy.

Beyond the accolades, the Awards serve as a space of unity, calling women of all ages, backgrounds, and cultures to rise together and harness technology to tackle Africa’s biggest socio-economic challenges.

Who’s Leading the Conversation

Renowned broadcaster and global conversation strategist Nozipho Tshabalala will steer the day’s programme as moderator, bringing her signature insight and charm to the stage. Adding star power to the line-up, Martha Lamola, Vodacom Business Operations Director for Vodacom Ventures and Business Partners, will deliver the keynote address, diving deep into leadership, innovation, and the evolving role of women in ICT.

Power Panels You Don’t Want to Miss

This year’s speaker line-up reads like a who’s who of female excellence across Africa’s business and tech sectors:

Panel One: The Creative Corner – Reflection on Digital Creative Agencies and the Impact of AI

• Janine Wood – Founder & Marketing Manager, Ignite Media

• Aphiwe Tafeni – Founder & CEO, Olem Business Boutique

• Zumurrud Rinquest – Managing Director, Curious & Creative

Panel Two: SMME Leadership in the Age of AI – How You Can Lead Beyond Your Limits

• Nomvuyiso Batyi – CEO, Association of Comms and Technology

• Zukiswa Phillips – Managing Executive: Financial Planning & Analysis, Vodacom SA

• Charmaine Houvet – Senior Director Africa, CISCO

• Siphokazi Simandla – Managing Director, Bolunga Systems

Panel Three: One Africa, One Market – African Women SMMEs Trading Without Limits

• Smangele Nkosi – General Manager South Africa, CISCO

• Kanini Mutooni – Regional Managing Director, Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation

Panel Four: Africa’s Youth – How Are They Coding, Shaping, and Scaling?

• Serisha Barrat – CEO & Co-Founder, Lawyered Up

• Thabile Makhoba – Director, Makhoba Professional Services

Additional speakers are set to be announced in the coming weeks, promising even more inspiration and insight.

Join the Movement

The Women in Tech Awards 2025 will take place in a hybrid format, combining an exclusive live audience experience with a global virtual stream, ensuring that women everywhere can tune in, connect, and grow together.

 Date: Thursday, 20 November 2025

 Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

 Virtual Registration: Open until 14 November 2025

 Register at: www.innovatortrust.co.za

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