Forbes Woman Africa held its 2026 Leading Women Summit on the 18th of March just over a week after International Women’s Day. Now in its eleventh edition ran under the theme: The Voice, Vision and Victories of her Africa.
The annual summit is always accompanied by an awards ceremony that aims to celebrate visionaries, innovators, thought leaders and change makers from across the continent in all sectors. From business to technology, sports and entertainment, education and innovation, each year a group of brilliant African women are celebrated and honoured.
Meet the 2026 Forbes Woman Africa Award winners and honoraries below:
2026 Forbes Woman Africa Young Achiever Award winner is Bohlale Mphahlele
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The 2026 Forbes Woman Africa Next Generation Award winner is Wawira Njiru
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The 2026 Forbes Woman Social Impact Award winner is Auma Obama
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The 2026 Forbes Africa Technology & Innovation Award winner is Regina Honu
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The Forbes Woman Africa Academic Excellence Award winner is Professor Hester Klopper
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The 2026 Forbes Woman Africa Excellence in Sports Award is Lara Markthaler
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The 2026 Forbes Woman Africa Innovation Catalyst Award winner is Anita Nel
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2026 Forbes Woman Africa Entertainer of the Year Award winner is Thuso Mbedu
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Yvonne Chaka Chaka honoured with a Legacy Award
Sahle-Work Zewde honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award
Connie Mashaba wins businesswoman of the year Award
