Women in Power 2025: A Celebration of Honour, Resilience, and Authentic Leadership

The Public Relations Institute of Southern Africa (PRISA), in partnership with the National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD), proudly hosted the Women in Power 2025 event on Wednesday, 20 August 2025, at the Silverstar Hotel by Tsogo Sun in Muldersdrift.

With the theme “She Leads, We Rise: Honour and Resilience, Dignity and Authentic Voices,” the event was a movement. It brought together women from across industries and communities to celebrate leadership that transforms society with courage, integrity, and authenticity.

“This year, we honour the resilience and dignity of women leaders who rise above challenges, lead with humanity, and remain authentic in every step of their journey,” says PRISA President, Bradly Howland. “Their leadership is not only shaping the present but paving the way for a future where inclusion, respect, and empowerment are the cornerstones of progress.”

A Movement of Leadership and Inclusion

The event explored what it meant for women to lead in an era of rapid change, technological disruption, and evolving workplace dynamics, while holding firmly to values of resilience and dignity. Through powerful discussions, inspiring personal journeys, and authentic storytelling, women professionals across industries were uplifted and inspired.

NCPD’s role in the programme placed inclusion at the centre, highlighting that true leadership ensures that all women rise, including women with disabilities.

Our MC, Ado Bakasa, brought the entire programme to life with warmth, humour, and energy, ensuring that every moment flowed seamlessly and that the audience remained engaged throughout. She was absolutely amazing!

“As an organisation that champions inclusion, especially for women with disabilities, it is deeply important to us to bring together women from all walks of life for a day filled with inspiration, empowerment, and leadership. Our hope is to create a space where every woman feels seen, valued, and truly celebrated.” Says NCPD Senior Manager: Projects and Programs, Lebo Boya.

 

A Day to Remember

Hosted by Tsogo Sun Silverstar Hotel, the event reflected a strong commitment to accessibility and inclusivity. With the generous support of sponsors including MTN, Virgin Active, JC le Roux, and Tsogo Sun, attendees enjoyed a seamless world-class experience.

The programme was filled with memorable moments, from a moving keynote address and a thought-provoking panel discussion on financial empowerment, entrepreneurial journeys, AI inclusivity, and wellness, to live entertainment and vibrant networking opportunities.

Standout Voices

Among the confirmed speakers who made the day unforgettable were:

• Shanaaz Nel – Group CEO of Media Host Group, Pan-African leader, and founder of South Africa’s first black woman-owned media monitoring firm

• Dr Caroline Azionya – Award-winning academic and lecturer at UJ, recognised for pioneering work in communication and youth engagement

• Mapalo Makhu – Author, award-winning Personal Finance Expert, Speaker, and Founder of Woman & Finance

• Luthando Kekana – Communicator, social entrepreneur, and inclusion advocate

“In an era of rapid change, women leaders stand as beacons of hope and innovation. This year, we celebrate their stories. Stories that inspire us to rise together with honour and courage. These are women who push and pull as they rise; they never surrender nor succumb to barriers,” adds PRISA Women in Power, Chairperson, Phuti Mothapo.

Rising Together

The Women in Power 2025 event was a powerful reminder of the strength of collective leadership. It opened doors to a sisterhood that transcended titles, uniting women through shared strength, resilience, and purpose.

💜 NCPD was proud to stand alongside PRISA in this flagship initiative. With over 85 years of advocacy, we continue to build a South Africa where women, with and without disabilities, rise together, shaping an inclusive and resilient future.