Sitha Maliwa
The inaugural Africa Rising Leadership Summit & Awards, held on March 27th and 28th at the prestigious Inanda Club in Sandton, was an unparalleled gathering of Africa’s top business minds, digital innovators, and entrepreneurs. This groundbreaking two-day event, under the theme “The path forward – empowering Africa’s future through leadership in the age of digital transformation,” provided a platform for meaningful conversations about redefining leadership in the digital age, offering valuable insights on how Africa can lead the world through innovation, transformation, and ethical leadership.
The summit was hosted by Dr. Nompumelelo Nkosi-Ntombela, and it attracted a remarkable array of thought leaders, business pioneers, and industry experts. These leaders came together to discuss how Africa can tap into the boundless potential of digital transformation, technology, and entrepreneurship to carve out a brighter future for the continent.
Esteemed leaders such as Nonkululeko Gobodo, Dr. Charles Cotter, Kutlwano Ngwarati, Max Moyo, Akhona Qenqge, and Gugu Mkhize were among the keynotes who captivated the audience, sharing their insights on the crucial role of innovation and adaptability in driving Africa’s growth. Their addresses emphasized the importance of forward-thinking leadership in preparing the continent to harness the full potential of the digital age.
The summit was not only about speeches but also fostered deep, engaging discussions through dynamic panel sessions. Moderated by the Africa Rising Leadership Founder & CEO Nomazibulo Tshanga, the panels covered critical topics related to Africa’s growth trajectory in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Dr. Tshidi Gule, Dr. Jerry Gule, Antoinette Roberts, and Boniwe Dunster discussed the importance of reskilling and retooling African leaders to stay ahead in a fast-paced digital world. Their discussions focused on the essential need for leadership development programs aimed at helping leaders navigate the complexities of the digital revolution.
Another engaging discussion revolved around AI-driven leadership, where Esther Munyi and Fikile Mdiniso highlighted the importance of ethical decision-making as technological advancements continue to influence industries across the continent. Moderated by Onke Dumeko, this panel emphasized balancing progress with responsibility in AI-driven business models.
One of the most stimulating discussions was on the future of leadership in an AI-driven world, hosted by Gugulethu Mfuphi of Kaya FM. The conversation involved thought leaders like Belinda Knight, Themba Chakela, and Nomvula Nxumalo, who delved into how artificial intelligence will shape the next generation of leaders and the skills they will need to succeed.
The summit also culminated in the Africa Rising Leadership Awards, a prestigious ceremony that celebrated Africa’s trailblazers who are already leading by example. The awards were hosted by Unathi Ncunyana, and the ceremony recognized leaders across various categories, including entrepreneurship, innovation, and impactful leadership.
The winners included:
- Digital Entrepreneur of the Year: Mamela Luthuli (TakeNote IT) & Zibusiso Mkhwanazi (Avatar & M & N)
- Digital Transformation Leader of the Year: Lynette Magasa (Boniswa Group)
- Emerging Women Leaders: Gugu Mkhize (INSETA) & Buhle Hanise (BDO South Africa)
- Top Entrepreneur of the Year: Thandeka Mngomezulu (TotalServe)
- Impactful Leader of the Year: Akhona Qengqe (KFC Africa)
- Emerging Leader of the Year: Godiragetse Fareed Mogajane (Ka Speed)
- Impactful Woman Leader of the Year: Nomvula Nomie Nxumalo (MiWay)
- Lifetime Achievement Award: Ipeleng Nonkululeko Mkhari
- Lifetime Achievement Award: Ipeleng Nonkululeko Mkhari
The Africa Rising Leadership Summit & Awards 2025 marked the beginning of a transformative journey toward a more inclusive and innovative Africa. The summit highlighted how the convergence of leadership, digital transformation, and entrepreneurship is not just the future but the present of Africa. Nomazibulo Tshanga, the Founder and CEO of Africa Rising Leadership, expressed her excitement about the summit’s success, stating, “Our vision is to make leadership more accessible and impactful. Young professionals, emerging entrepreneurs, and business executives often lack access to the right mentorship and platforms. This summit is our way of bridging that gap and creating a pathway for a new generation of leaders to rise.” – @News_Online