Rita Zwane wins the 2025 Forbes Woman Africa Businesswoman Award, recognizing her impact on South Africa’s hospitality industry and township economy.

Rita Zwane Wins 2025 Forbes Africa Businesswoman Award.

Rita Zwane, the visionary founder of Imbizo Shisanyama Busy Corner, once more cemented her legacy in South Africa’s hospitality industry! Indeed, on this interantional women day; AfriQueens Magazine radiates pride as iconic entrepreneur Rita Zwane, founder of Imbizo Shisanyama Busy Corner, wins the 2025 Forbes Woman Africa Businesswoman Award at a dazzling gala hosted at Pretoria’s SunBet Arena. Zwane, celebrated for her transformative impact on South Africa’s hospitality sector, stood among luminaries like Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Tiwa Savage, who claimed top honors at the 10th Forbes Woman Africa Leading Women Summit.

Pretty Yende performing at the reopening of Notre Dame, wearing an elegant floral gown, accompanied by an orchestra and conductor.

Pretty Yende, a South African Opera Star With A Golden Voice

Pretty Yende shines as one of the most celebrated sopranos of our time. Born in Piet Retief, Mpumlanga, in South Africa. She rose from humble beginnings to grace the stages of the world’s most prestigious opera houses. Her stunning vocal range and magnetic stage presence have earned her a place among opera’s elite. With each performance, she brings passion and brilliance to a repertoire that spans bel canto, French opera, and more.

Yende’s journey began with a serendipitous discovery of opera at age 16, which ignited her passion for music. She quickly gained recognition for her talent, winning numerous awards and scholarships. Today, she captivates audiences with her artistry, blending technical precision with heartfelt emotion. Her story inspires countless fans and serves as a testament to the power of determination and talent.

Wendy Lucas-Bull, Chairperson of Shoprite Holdings, wearing glasses and a pearl necklace.

Wendy Lucas-Bull: The Woman Leading SA’s Biggest Retailer 

Wendy Lucas-Bull is a powerhouse in South Africa’s business world, steering the ship of the country’s biggest retailer, Shoprite Holdings. With a market value of R175 billion, Shoprite stands as a giant in the retail sector, and Lucas-Bull is at the helm. Her journey from banking to retail showcases her versatility and leadership, marking significant impacts along the way. From her early days at Absa and FirstRand to her current role, Wendy Lucas-Bull’s influence is felt across industries, and her vision for the future continues to shape the landscape.

A black-and-white portrait of Nikki Giovanni, a young African American woman, sitting by a window, reflecting a thoughtful and contemplative expression, symbolizing her depth as a poet and activist.

Nikki Giovanni: Celebrating the Life and Legacy of a Poetry Icon

Nikki Giovanni was a force in the world of poetry and activism. Her words echoed with truth and warmth, reaching across generations. From her early days, she was surrounded by influences that shaped her into the remarkable figure she became. As a part of the Black Arts Movement, her voice became a beacon of change and empowerment. Her work spans decades, touching on themes of race, identity, and love, and her influence continues to inspire new voices today. Giovanni’s legacy is not just in her poetry but in her role as a teacher and mentor, guiding future generations to find their own voices. The outstanding author and civil rights activist passed away on December 9, 2024 (aged 81). In this article, we explore her extraordinary realisations as well as their impacts.

Portrait of Nancy Sharma, a woman remembered for her extraordinary act of saving nine lives through her selfless organ donation after her passing.

Nancy Sharma: How She Saved 9 Lives After Her Death!

Nancy Sharma, a 32-year-old software engineer, has become a hero to nine people she never met. After a tragic incident left her brain-dead, her family made the brave decision to donate her organs. Nancy’s heart, kidneys, eyes, and liver were given to those in dire need, providing them with a second chance at life. Her story is one of tragedy but also of hope and generosity.