WeeklySA_AdminSCALE: The Woman of Stature Awards South Africa has extended its 2027 regional launch programme to the Western Cape, widening its search for women making a difference in their industries and communities…
By Priscilla Malinga
The Woman of Stature Awards South Africa concluded its regional roadshow in Cape Town today, bringing its celebration of women’s achievements to the Western Cape ahead of the 2027 season.
Following launches in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal, the Western Cape event marked the third provincial stop in the organisation’s drive to recognise more women whose leadership and contributions are transforming businesses, professions and communities.
With nominations closing soon, organisers are encouraging the public to put forward deserving candidates. Women may also nominate themselves.
Founded in 2013 by Charlotte du Plessis, who serves on its board, Woman of Stature provides a national platform to recognise women’s achievements, share their stories and support their continued development.
“When I founded Woman of Stature in 2013, my vision was to create opportunities for women to be seen, heard, recognised and celebrated for their achievements,” du Plessis said.
She said many women worked tirelessly behind the scenes without receiving the recognition they deserved. The awards offered an opportunity to bring their contributions into the spotlight and inspire others.
“Our philosophy is that recognition is not merely a reward for what a woman has achieved, but a catalyst for what she can achieve next,” she said.
For nominees, the value extends beyond the prospect of winning.
“For many women, the nomination is a defining moment. It provides validation for years of dedication, sacrifice, perseverance and hard work,” du Plessis said.
The organisation also places development at the heart of the awards journey.
From January to April, participants take part in a structured personal and professional development programme designed to strengthen their confidence, leadership skills, personal brands and professional visibility.
The programme creates opportunities to network and build relationships with other accomplished women.
“Our message to every nominee is simple: You do not have to win an award to be a Woman of Stature. Your nomination is already an acknowledgement of your worth and contribution,” du Plessis said.
The nomination process accommodates women from diverse industries and professional backgrounds. Once nominated, a candidate is invited to accept the nomination and complete registration, including submitting supporting information and a portfolio of evidence demonstrating her achievements.
Each participant enters one award category and must meet the relevant eligibility criteria before progressing to the development programme and independent adjudication.
For 2027, the organisation has adopted a regional model covering Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape. The approach gives women opportunities to earn recognition within their regions while maintaining the standards of the national awards.
According to the organisation, an independent panel judges entries, with members selected for their professional expertise, business experience, leadership credentials and integrity.
Nominees participate in formal adjudication interviews to present their achievements, explain their impact and provide supporting evidence. The awards process is also independently audited.
Du Plessis stressed that judging was based on established criteria rather than popularity. Public Choice voting and fundraising activities are separate initiatives and do not influence the independent judging results.
Assessment focuses on five areas: leadership; achievements and excellence; impact and contribution; innovation and resilience; and personal and professional growth.
The 2027 season features 16 categories spanning a wide range of industries and professions. These include CEO of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year, Woman in Arts and Culture, Woman in Automotive Services, Woman in Coaching and Mentoring, and Woman in Communication and Media.
Other categories recognise contributions in community services; construction, engineering and mining; education and training; events, hospitality and tourism; financial services; healthcare and wellness; legal services; oil and energy; property; and technology.
The inclusion of sectors traditionally dominated by men provides a platform for women breaking barriers in industries where their representation has historically been limited.
The highest honour, the Overall Woman of Stature Award, recognises exceptional leadership, integrity, resilience and influence, alongside a commitment to making a difference beyond professional success. The recipient also serves as an ambassador for the organisation.
The 2026 Overall Winner was Ncumisa Saba-Mkunqwana, who also won the Woman in Financial Services award. She was scheduled to deliver the keynote address at the Western Cape launch, with du Plessis and participating regional nominees also on the programme.
Looking ahead, du Plessis said the organisation would continue to identify and develop women whose influence extended beyond their individual achievements.
“I have always believed that every woman has a story worth telling, a contribution worth recognising and potential worth developing,” she said.
“We are not merely seeking women who have attained success. We are seeking women who have drawn on their success, their influence and their experiences to make a difference in the lives of others.”
As the regional model expands, she said, the mission remains to identify, develop and celebrate women of impact.
“Because when we recognise one woman, we inspire many others to believe in what is possible.”
