Conference Highlights

November 2025

Our 2025 Cornerstone Conference, Ubuntu: I Am Because We Are, convened over 500 global women leaders from 30 countries in Cape Town, South Africa. These women engaged in conversations that inform, inspire, and advance women’s leadership globally.

Wednesday: November 5, 2025

Thursday: November 6, 2025

The 2025 Cornerstone Conference opened in Cape Town with energy, reflection, and connection – as over 500 women leaders from 30 countries came together to explore what Ubuntu means for leadership in today’s world.

Opening remarks from Kimberly Cooper Jaqua, Irene Charnley, Nolitha Fakude, and H.E. President Cyril Ramaphosa set the tone for a day defined by insight and inspiration.

From global geopolitics to groundbreaking innovation, the morning plenaries challenged perspectives and celebrated IWF members reshaping industries and communities across the world.

The day concluded with the Susan Hammer Memorial Lecture, where Advocate Mojanku Gumbi delivered a moving address on justice, reconciliation, and leadership – reminding us of the power of dialogue to build a fairer world.

A remarkable first day grounded in purpose, progress, and the spirit of Ubuntu.

Friday: November 7, 2025

Day 2 opened with renewed energy and purpose as discussions turned to The Power of Hope – exploring the pathways to excellence in leadership through mentorship, development, and collaboration.

From Mpumi Zikalala, CEO of Kumba Iron Ore (IWF South Africa), to inspiring reflections from Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe, Co-Founder of the Motsepe Foundation (IWF South Africa); Dr. Desiree Ellis, Head Coach of Banyana Banyana; and Qhawekazi Mazaleni, Miss South Africa 2025 – the morning celebrated the impact of women leading change and paying it forward to the next generation.

The afternoon sessions explored some of the most pressing global themes – from food security and equity to the transformation of economies. In Chaos Reigns: A Conversation on the Global Economy, Funeka Montjane, CEO of Personal and Private Banking at Standard Bank (IWF South Africa), led a powerful discussion with Winnie Byanyima, Executive Director of UNAIDS; Trudi Makhaya, Senior Advisor at Boston Consulting Group; and Joshua Setipa, Former Minister of Trade and Industry of Lesotho. Together, they unpacked how innovation, trade, and leadership can drive inclusive prosperity across Africa and beyond.

As the conference’s visionary sponsor, Standard Bank’s support helped bring this extraordinary gathering to life – a testament to its ongoing commitment to women’s empowerment and leadership on the continent.

The day culminated in the Leading Light Gala Dinner and Celebration, honoring Mrs. Zanele Mbeki, Founder of the Women’s Development Bank and Patron of IWF South Africa; Mrs. Sophie Williams-De Bruyn, anti-apartheid activist and first recipient of the Women’s Award for Exceptional National Service; and Her Royal Majesty Queen Mother Semane Bonolo Molotlegi of the Royal Bafokeng Nation – a fitting finale of connection, joy, and the enduring spirit of Ubuntu.