This Women’s Day, Iziko Museums of South Africa is inviting South Africans to celebrate the remarkable legacy of women while embracing the leaders of tomorrow through a unique full-day programme that blends wellness, meaningful dialogue and live entertainment.
Taking place on Saturday, 8 August 2026, Izi-Women 2026: Honouring the Legacy. Empowering the Future is a carefully curated celebration inspired by the historic 1956 Women’s March. Hosted across some of Cape Town’s most iconic heritage sites, the event offers a day dedicated to reflection, empowerment, leadership and artistic expression.
Celebrating Women Across Generations
Rather than marking Women’s Day with a single event, Iziko Museums has designed an immersive experience that unfolds across three distinct sessions, each highlighting different aspects of women’s journeys and achievements.
From outdoor wellness activities and inspiring conversations to an evening of music and storytelling, the programme creates opportunities for visitors to reconnect with themselves, engage with influential voices and celebrate the contribution of women to South Africa’s history and future.
Start the Day with Wellness and Reflection
The day begins with the Women’s Wellness Experience from 09:00 to 10:30 on the tranquil Company’s Garden Lawn.
Led by yoga instructor Meghan Pietersen, the outdoor session combines yoga, mindfulness, restorative movement and guided self-care in a peaceful environment designed to encourage reflection, renewal and connection.
Participation is free, although advance registration is required, with yoga mats provided for attendees.
Leadership Takes Centre Stage
From 12:00 to 15:00, attention shifts to the Women’s Long Table Dialogue at the Iziko South African Museum, where some of South Africa’s most respected voices will explore leadership, mentorship and innovation.
The discussion is headlined by renowned social justice advocate and former Public Protector Professor Thuli Madonsela.
Joining the conversation are:
- Broadcaster Leigh-Anne Williams
- Radio presenter and producer Martelize Brink
- Entrepreneur Babalwa Mbuku
The session will be hosted by television personality Thembisa Mdoda-Nxumalo, creating a platform for courageous conversations about shaping South Africa’s future through collaboration and intergenerational leadership.
An Evening Tribute Through Music
The celebrations conclude with the Musical Tribute to Women from 18:00 to 21:00 in the historic courtyard of the Iziko Old Town House at Greenmarket Square.
Hosted by Spitch Nzawumbi, the evening showcases an impressive lineup featuring:
- Award-winning soul artist Brian Themba
- Qaqamba
- Sama Yoyo
- Nala Collective Jazz Ensemble
Through music and storytelling, the concert honours the extraordinary contribution women continue to make across society while bringing the day’s celebration to an inspiring close.
A Day Designed to Inspire
According to Namhla Moyeni, Business Development and Fundraising Manager at Iziko Museums, the event is about much more than commemorating Women’s Day.
“Women’s Day provides us with an opportunity to honour the extraordinary women who have shaped our nation’s history while creating space for conversations and experiences that inspire future generations. Through Izi-Women 2026, Iziko Museums is bringing together wellness, heritage, leadership and the arts to create a meaningful and memorable experience that celebrates women’s journeys across generations. We invite everyone to join us for this unique celebration of inspiration, sisterhood and empowerment.”
Whether visitors attend a single session or immerse themselves in the full programme, Izi-Women 2026 has been created as a space where people can recharge, reconnect and celebrate together.
Ticket Information
Guests can choose from several attendance options:
- Women’s Wellness Experience (09:00 – 10:30) – Free (registration required)
- Women’s Long Table Dialogue (12:00 – 15:00) – R350
- Musical Tribute to Women (18:00 – 21:00) – R350
- Full Izi-Women Experience Package – R700
The Full Experience Package includes access to all three events.
The first 50 guests who purchase the full package will also receive:
- An exclusive Izi-Women 2026 Gift Pack
- A complimentary one-year Iziko Patron Membership, providing unlimited access to Iziko’s arts, culture and heritage experiences throughout the year.
Tickets are available via Webtickets, and early booking is encouraged as seating is limited.
Event Details
Event: Izi-Women 2026: Honouring the Legacy. Empowering the Future
Date: Saturday, 8 August 2026
Women’s Wellness Experience
Time: 09:00 – 10:30
Venue: Company’s Garden Lawn
Price: Free (Registration Required)
Women’s Long Table Dialogue
Time: 12:00 – 15:00
Venue: Iziko South African Museum, 25 Queen Victoria Street, Gardens, Cape Town
Price: R350
Musical Tribute to Women
Time: 18:00 – 21:00
Venue: Historic Courtyard, Iziko Old Town House, Greenmarket Square
Price: R350
Full Experience Package: R700
By combining wellness, heritage, leadership and live performance in one carefully curated programme, Izi-Women 2026: Honouring the Legacy. Empowering the Future offers South Africans a meaningful way to celebrate Women’s Day while reflecting on the women who have shaped the nation’s past and continue to inspire its future.
