The Innovator Trust Turns Up The Heat With Dynamic Newly Announced Speakers For WIT SMME Awards

On Thursday, Johannesburg will host the highly anticipated Innovator Trust Women in Tech (WIT) SMME Awards 2025, designed to shine a light on women revolutionising the technology landscape in South Africa.

Under the inspiring theme “Shaping her Growth. Code It. Shape It. Scale It.”, this event promises to be a catalyst for change, bringing together a diverse range of leaders who are redefining innovation and leadership across the nation's tech ecosystem.

The event has broadened its lineup to include an array of distinguished speakers and panelists, each representing key sectors of South Africa's digital, creative, entrepreneurial, and corporate environments.

Notable figures include Aphiwe Tafeni, the visionary behind Olem Business Boutique, and Chipo Mushwana, an Executive at Nedbank Group passionate about emerging innovations. Their combined expertise reflects the depth of talent committed to shaping a brighter future for women in technology.

Other key speakers include Dr Roze Phillips, a renowned African Futurist and Founder of Abundance at Work, and Janine Wood, Managing Director of Ignite Media, both of whom will contribute valuable perspectives on navigating the complexities of the evolving tech landscape. Mpho Motsemme, the Media Liaison for SARS, and Tsatsi Mthimunye, Managing Executive at Vodacom for the Central Region, are also among those who will enrich the discourse with their insights on the intersection of technology and leadership.

As the awards celebrate the accomplishments of remarkable women, Media Personality and Brand Strategist Baxbara Moagi will take on the role of MC, guiding audiences through a day filled with inspirational keynote addresses and panel discussions.

This year’s programme aims to elevate the voices of those leading the charge in coding, shaping, and scaling South Africa's digital economy.

The recognition of women’s contributions to the tech industry is a critical reminder of the inclusive leadership needed to navigate Africa's digital future.

Attendees will engage in transformative conversations, addressing topics from the AI-driven future of digital creativity to the advancement of African tech leadership.

For those unable to attend in person, virtual registration remains available, inviting entrepreneurs, professionals, and industry leaders from across the globe to be part of this monumental event. With thousands of participants expected, the WIT Awards hope to inspire and empower future generations of women in tech.

As the countdown to the awards draws near, it is unmistakable: Africa's digital future is female-built, emphasising intellect, innovation, and a commitment to inclusive leadership that can lead the continent towards unprecedented achievements in technology.