Now in its fifth year, EmpoweringHER has maintained the aim of becoming a flagship platform for celebrating, uplifting and investing in women who are reshaping industries, communities and society across South Africa and beyond, says the foundation.

"This year is so special for us because we are reaching a milestone moment, 'The Power of 50'," says Nomzamo Mbatha, Founder of the Nomzamo Lighthouse Foundation and Organiser of EmpoweringHER. "Since our first gathering, we have honoured 40 trailblazing women. In 2025, we will welcome 10 more into this legacy, completing a collective of 50 phenomenal leaders who are truly shaping our country and the world."

For the Hollywood Foundation, a development organisation focused in creating opportunities to sustainability, 2025 represents more than a milestone, it marks a new era for EmpoweringHER, says the foundation.

"As the EmpoweringHER platform enters its fifth year, we are proud to celebrate its remarkable legacy and also its evolution into a sustained development programme," says Vuyisile Ngobese, Public Relations Officer for Hollywood Foundation. "The 2025 milestone, 'The Power of 50,' marks a defining chapter, showcasing the women whose courage and creativity continue to shape South Africa's social and economic landscape. Together with the Nomzamo Lighthouse Foundation, we are transforming EmpoweringHER from a single moment of celebration into a long-term journey of empowerment, one that inspires hope, builds opportunity and strengthens the pathway for women to thrive."

Highlights of the 2025 EmpoweringHER Seminar & Awards

  • Dynamic Panel Discussions led by some of the country's voices in business, leadership and empowerment.
  • Keynote Address designed to ignite inspiration and provide actionable insights for attendees.
  • Awards Ceremony honouring the newest class of 10 women aiming to drive transformation in South Africa and beyond.

"This is not just another event, it is a movement. It's about giving women the stage, the microphone and the recognition they so deeply deserve. Our panels and keynote speakers are going to bring fire, knowledge and inspiration. The awards will celebrate women who embody what it means to lead with vision, courage and impact," adds Mbatha.

A Theme of Vibrancy, Vision & Impact

The 2025 theme, "Women: The Boldest Strokes of Colour,' aims to pay tribute to the vibrancy, vision and impact that women bring into every sphere of life, says the foundation.

  • Vibrancy: Their passion and dynamic presence transform spaces.
  • Vision: Their foresight and innovation redefine industries.
  • Impact: Their leadership and contributions create lasting change.

"With only 300 seats available, the room will be intentionally intimate," says Mbatha. "We want every woman who walks in to feel seen, to be inspired and to leave knowing she has a powerful community standing behind her."

EmpoweringHER's Continued Investment in Women

Since its inception, EmpoweringHER, through the support of the Nomzamo Lighthouse Foundation and the Hollywood Foundation, has invested over R3.2-million into the growth and execution of the platform, averaging R800 000 each year. This long-term commitment aims to reflect both organisations' shared dedication to creating tangible and sustainable impact in women's empowerment and development, says the foundation.

Event Details

  • Event: EmpoweringHER Seminar & Business Awards 2025.
  • Date: Saturday, 15 November.
  • Venue: Inanda Club, Johannesburg.
  • Time: 09:00 to 17:00.
  • Tickets: Early Bird: R950. Standard: R1 200.

Tickets are now available on Webticket, concludes the foundation.

For more information, visit nomzamolighthouse.org. You can also follow The Nomzamo Lighthouse Foundation on Facebook, LinkedIn, X, or on Instagram.

*Image courtesy of contributor