Winners of 2026 Woman of Stature Awards South Africa.
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Ncumisa Saba-Mkunqwana from Gauteng was named the overall winner at the 2026 Woman of Stature Awards South Africa.
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South Africa’s top women in business were recognised at the 2026 Woman of Stature Awards, held at a gala event in Johannesburg on April 11.
“The Woman of Stature Awards South Africa has once again cemented its position as the country’s premier platform for recognising and celebrating the remarkable achievements of women in business, leadership, and community impact,” the organisers said in a statement.
“This year’s ceremony marked a resounding success, honouring exceptional women who are shaping South Africa’s future.”
Janice Wagner from Gauteng the CEO of Edge Executive Search awarded the title Woman CEO of the Year at 2026 Woman of Stature Awards South Africa.
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Now in its 11th season and marking 13 years of impact, the awards received more than 1,000 nominations from across five provinces.
“This record-breaking participation reflects the growing influence of the platform and the depth of female talent driving innovation, leadership, and socio-economic change across industries,” the statement said.
The evening’s top honours included Woman CEO of the Year, awarded to Janice Wagner, and Woman Entrepreneur of the Year, awarded to Taryn Hunter Sharman.
Taryn Hunter Sharman from Gauteng, the co-founder of creative agency, Faith & Fear awarded the title Woman Entrepreneur of the Year at 2026 Woman of Stature Awards South Africa.
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“The highlight of the evening was the announcement of the OVERALL WINNER, and Woman of Stature 2026, Ncumisa Saba -Mkunqwana. Ncumisa was announced as the Woman in Financial Services category winner earlier in the evening.”
Charlotte du Plessis, founder and CEO of Woman of Stature Awards South Africa, said the awards recognise more than just professional success.
“These awards are a powerful celebration of women who are not only excelling in their respective fields, but are also uplifting others and contributing meaningfully to South Africa’s economic growth,” she said.
“The calibre of nominees, finalists and winners this year has been truly exceptional. We are proud to recognise women who lead with purpose, resilience, and vision.”
Winners of 2026 Woman of Stature Awards South Africa with sponsors.
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Winners across the 2026 categories included Thandazile Mbeje (Community), Aasiyah Adams (Technology), Marcia Noxolo Veronica Mayaba (Automotive), Thabisile Phumo (Mining and Engineering), Zola Mbatha (Legal Services), Fundi Mazibuko (Property), Ncumisa Saba-Mkunqwana (Financial Services), Nonkululeko Masinga (MICE, Tourism and Hospitality), Brescia Bianco-Badenhorst (Coaching and Mentoring), Nicole Buckley (Education and Training), Ntalo Mathebula (Arts and Culture), and Dr Marlena Kruger (Health and Wellness).
Additional honours included the Honorary Lifetime Achiever Award for Sandy Geffen, the Public Choice Award for Cynthia Machaba, and a tie for Fundraiser of the Year between Yvonne Dias and Antionette de Jeso.
“The Awards continue to play a vital role in empowering women in South Africa by providing a platform that not only recognises excellence but also fosters growth through mentorship, visibility, and networking opportunities,” the statement said.
“Each nominee represents a story of perseverance, innovation, and impact, and the organisation extends its heartfelt appreciation to all participants.”
Ncumisa Saba -Mkunqwana from Gauteng as overall winner of the 2026 Woman of Stature Awards South Africa with Woman of Stature Awards board of directors.
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Du Plessis also acknowledged participants and winners.
“We would like to thank every nominee who accepted their nomination. Your journeys inspire and remind us of the incredible potential of women across our nation,” she said.
“To our winners, congratulations on this well-deserved recognition – you are trailblazers and role models for future generations.”
“The continued support of our partners is instrumental in making these Awards possible,” she added. “Together, we are building a more inclusive, empowered, and thriving business landscape for women in South Africa.”
“As the curtain closes on a memorable 2026 season, the Woman of Stature Awards South Africa continues to inspire a new generation of women to lead boldly, innovate fearlessly, and create lasting impact with the expansion and launch of the Regional Awards from hereon.”