The momentum behind the Innovator Trust Women in Tech (WIT) SMME Awards 2025 has officially surged to new heights. With just days to go before this Thursday’s highly anticipated ceremony in Johannesburg, the Innovator Trust has unveiled an expanded lineup of powerhouse speakers—women whose influence, intellect and innovation are actively reshaping South Africa’s digital economy.
Under this year’s dynamic theme, “Shaping Her Growth. Code It. Shape It. Scale It.”, the newly announced speakers bring a unique blend of visionary thinking, industry depth and future-forward leadership. Their voices join an already formidable roster, setting the stage for a day that promises not only inspiration, but transformation.
Women Shaping SA’s Digital Future Take Center Stage
The expanded list features trailblazers from finance, energy, entrepreneurship, digital strategy, law, media, technology, corporate leadership and creative industries. Each speaker exemplifies the spirit of the WIT Awards—women who are reimagining what’s possible, rewriting the rules, and scaling impact across the continent.
Newly Announced Speakers and Panelists Include:
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Aphiwe Tafeni – Founder & CEO, Olem Business Boutique
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Chipo Mushwana – Executive of Emerging Innovation & Payments, Nedbank Group
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Dr Roze Phillips – African Futurist, Business Strategy Advisor & Founder, Abundance at Work
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Janine Wood – Founder & Managing Director, Ignite Media
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Lebo Lion – Marketing Strategist & Tech Entrepreneur, Lyon
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Linda Mabena-Olagunju – Founder & CEO, DLO Energy Resources Group (Pty) Ltd
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Mpho Motsemme – Media Liaison, SARS
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Nicqui Galaktiou – Director, Nicqui Galaktiou Inc
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Sisanda Mbodlela – Managing Director, SM Solutions PE Trading
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Tsatsi Mthimunye – Managing Executive – Central Region, Vodacom
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Zumurrud Rinquest – Managing Director, Curious & Creative
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Baxbara Moagi – MC for the day; Media Personality, Content Creator & Brand Strategist
These women stand at the forefront of real change—advancing AI-driven creativity, pioneering new digital business models, shaping policies, redefining brand storytelling, and leading South Africa’s shift into an innovation-powered future.
A Day Designed for Breakthrough Thinking
The WIT Awards have become a hallmark platform for spotlighting women who are not only participating in the digital economy but actively building it. This year’s event will feature powerful keynote addresses, high-impact panel discussions and industry insights that unpack:
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The future of AI in Africa
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The evolution of digital creativity
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The state of SMME innovation
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Women’s leadership in tech ecosystems
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The scale-up strategies driving Africa’s next generation of digital entrepreneurs
The message is clear: Africa’s digital future is women-led, powered by intellect, courage, creativity and community.
Register Virtually and Join Thousands Nationwide
Virtual registration remains open, allowing entrepreneurs, professionals and tech leaders from across the country to plug into a full day of strategy, inspiration and transformative conversation.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
Event Details
Innovator Trust Women in Tech (WIT) Awards
📅 Thursday, 20 November 2025
⏰ 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
For more details, visit the Innovator Trust platforms:
Instagram: @innovatortrust
Facebook: @innovatortrust
Twitter/X: @innovatortrust
YouTube: Innovator Trust
Website: www.innovatortrust.co.za
