In 2025, women across the globe are not just leading, they are reshaping culture and advancing gender equality with remarkable vigour.
South Africans can take pride in their trailblazers who stand alongside global figures as forces of change.
INSPIRING WOMEN: KABIRA DEWAN
One shining example is Kabira Dewan from Robertsham, honoured among South Africa’s Top 30 Influential Women.
Dewan’s dedication to empowerment and community development has earned her widespread acclaim.
At the Lyric Theatre in Gold Reef City, Councillor Faeeza Chame hailed her as a beacon of leadership and positive influence.
Dewan remarked, “True influence is about lifting others as you rise. Our strength is in our communities”.
South Africa’s business landscape features formidable women whose wealth and influence echo far beyond borders.
INSPIRING WOMEN: WENDY APPELBAUM
Wendy Appelbaum, owner of the famed De Morgenzon wine estate, channels her resources into philanthropy and women’s empowerment.
Though her fortune was once estimated at $183 million (around R3 billion), Appelbaum prefers spotlighting her impact over her wealth.
In fashion and education, Precious Moloi-Motsepe impresses with her dual legacy.
Founder of African Fashion International and Chancellor of the University of Cape Town, she empowers African creatives and students alike.
Her estimated $300 million net worth (approximately R5 billion) underpins her philanthropic reach.
GLOBAL RECOGNITIONS
Among global recognitions, TIME’s 2025 Women of the Year list includes figures who inspire South Africa.
The list features actor-producer Nicole Kidman and WNBA MVP A’ja Wilson, women who fight for social justice and equality.
Athletics also highlight powerful female role models. South African sportspersons see stars like Simone Biles and Fu Yuanhui challenge norms.
They promote gender equality through their feats and advocacy. As one athlete put it, “Sport is a platform to demand respect and rights, on and off the field”.
FORBES WOMAN AFRICA
Furthermore, Africa’s creative and economic future shines through 17 remarkable women honoured at the 2025 FORBES WOMAN AFRICA Awards in Pretoria.
Among them, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, WTO Director-General and the first African woman to hold that post, received a Lifetime Achievement Award.
She stated, “Our progress depends on the leaders who dare to envision equality and act decisively”. These women personify more than success; they fuel progress.
Their work resonates strongly with those who face ongoing challenges in gender equality, according to Forbes Africa.
BUSINESS AND ACTIVISM
As Dewan emphasises, “Change happens when women unite, lead boldly, and demand a future where every girl can dream without limits”.
From business and activism to sport and culture, the women of 2025 redefine what it means to be influential.
Their vision drives society forward, making the dream of equality increasingly tangible and within reach.
WHICH INFLUENTIAL WOMAN OF 2025 INSPIRES YOU THE MOST AND WHY?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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