By Sitha Maliwa:
The winds of change swept through South Africa as history was made at the Garden Venue in Honeydew, where the Women Changing the World Awards touched South African soil for the very first time.
At the centre of it all was Ncazelo Ncube-Mlilo — narrative therapist, psychosocial specialist, and founder of PHOLA International. Earlier this year, she walked away with not one, but three awards at the global edition of the event. Last week, she returned not as an honouree, but as a host. Her story came full circle, and with it, the stories of countless South African women were lifted to the global stage.
The Women Changing the World Awards is no ordinary celebration. Co-founded by Dr. Tererai Trent, the internationally recognised scholar hailed as Oprah Winfrey’s “all-time favourite guest,” the initiative commands worldwide respect. It is a platform that not only recognises women’s brilliance but also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, amplifying women’s leadership in a world hungry for change.
It has also drawn the attention of royalty. Sarah, Duchess of York, has previously presented special honours, including the Golden Heart Award, placing these awards in a league of their own.
And this year, South Africa proudly took its place on that stage.
“Being celebrated is always humbling, but what excites me most is the opportunity to bring these awards to South Africa,” said Ncube-Mlilo. “It’s about giving local women the platform to share their stories, be recognised for their impact, and connect with a global community of change-makers.”
The event officially launched the South African leg of the awards, with nominations set to open on 15 September 2025, leading to a powerful gathering on 22 April 2026, where women from across South Africa and the globe will once again stand side by side in recognition of their achievements.
The awards span diverse categories: from the Hall of Fame Woman Changing the World of the Year, to Rising Star, Leadership and Innovation, Humanitarian and Human Rights Impact, and the People’s Choice Awards across health, education, business, and inclusion.
Behind the trophies lies something far greater: a recognition of women whose courage, vision, and relentless pursuit of justice continue to alter the course of communities, nations, and generations.
For Ncube-Mlilo, hosting this historic moment was more than a role -it was the continuation of a lifetime of service. Through PHOLA International, she has pioneered culturally sensitive approaches to healing trauma, poverty, and gender-based violence. Her Tree of Life (ToL) Methodology is now practised in over 60 countries, while her COURRAGE and O.U.T.R.R.A.G.E.D. programmes serve as shields and swords in the battle against GBV.
Every year, her organisation trains over 1,000 mental health practitioners, touching the lives of more than 100,000 people worldwide. Her work has earned her numerous accolades, including the People’s Choice Award for Social Enterprises and Non-Profits, the Women in Mental Health and Counselling Services Award, and recognition as runner-up for the Golden Heart Award.
And yet, it was here – at home in South Africa – where her vision took root, promising to inspire a generation of women ready to change the world.
When the lights rose at the Garden Venue, it did more than mark the start of an awards ceremony. It marked the dawn of a chapter where South African women stepped boldly into their power, with the world watching. —@NewsSA_Online
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