Managing Editor Renuka Methil reflects on 10 years of FORBES WOMAN AFRICA Leading Women Summit

The 10th annual Forbes Woman Africa Leading Women Summit is currently underway at the Time Square Casino in Pretoria, gathering some of the most influential female leaders from across the continent and beyond. This year's summit marks a significant milestone in the journey of empowerment and gender equality, encapsulating the spirit of International Women's Day. The event, which initially started with just 100 attendees in Johannesburg back in 2015, has now grown into a massive gathering of several hundred participants, symbolizing a decade of progress and transformation. Managing Editor of Forbes Africa, Renuka Methil, shared her reflections on the evolution of the summit and its impact on the empowerment of women in Africa. The theme for this year's summit, 'to the power of 10, the rule breakers in Africa's next chapter', highlights the remarkable achievements of the past decade while looking forward to the future of female leadership in the region. The event featured an impressive lineup of speakers from diverse backgrounds, including South Africa, Botswana, Uganda, Tanzania, Cape Verde, and even the UK, underscoring the global reach and significance of the summit. The discussions at the summit delved into important topics such as gender parity, breaking barriers, and fostering a supportive environment for women in various sectors. Renuka emphasized the importance of showcasing and celebrating the diverse talents and role models present in Africa, emphasizing the need for continued visibility and representation. The summit serves as a platform for like-minded individuals to come together, share ideas, and deepen connections, ultimately driving progress and empowerment for women across the continent. As the world grapples with geopolitical shifts and challenges, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the rollback of diversity and equality initiatives in key countries, the fight for gender equality remains an ongoing battle. Despite the setbacks and obstacles faced by women, Renuka expressed confidence in the resilience and determination of female entrepreneurs and leaders to overcome adversity and continue their journey towards equality and empowerment. Looking ahead to the future, she underscored the importance of unity and collective action in driving positive change and dismantling barriers to gender equality. The Forbes Africa Leading Women's Summit Awards, recognizing outstanding achievements in various categories, further highlight the need to celebrate and uplift women who are making a significant impact in their respective fields. The summit continues to be a beacon of hope and inspiration, empowering women to break boundaries, defy norms, and shape a brighter future for generations to come.