The Delegation of Flanders in Southern Africa commemorated Women’s Month 2026 by hosting an inspiring leadership event that brought together accomplished women leaders and Grade 11 and 12 learners from Hoërskool Silverton and Vlakfontein Secondary School. The initiative aimed to celebrate women’s achievements while empowering the next generation of leaders through meaningful dialogue, mentorship and shared experiences.
Held at the Delegation of Flanders in Southern Africa in Pretoria, the event formed part of South Africa’s Women’s Month commemorations and highlighted the importance of gender equality, inclusive leadership and creating opportunities for young people to realise their full potential.
A Platform for Leadership and Inspiration
The programme began with the arrival and registration of learners and invited guests, followed by practical briefings and a moving opening poem presented by Buntle Ramushu of Vlakfontein Secondary School.
The morning’s closed session featured interactive dialogue sessions where learners were divided into smaller groups to engage directly with distinguished guests. These discussions provided a unique opportunity for learners to ask questions, gain career advice and hear first-hand experiences from accomplished women who have excelled in leadership roles across government, diplomacy, media and literature.
Public Session Highlights
The public session was professionally directed by Gabriella Dlamini from Hoërskool Silverton, who served as the Programme Director.
Opening the session, Mr Thomas Castrel, General Representative of Flanders in Southern Africa, welcomed guests and reaffirmed the Delegation’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote women’s leadership, education and youth empowerment.
Learners then took centre stage as Faith Mawela and Promise Motshetshe of Vlakfontein Secondary School delivered an inspiring keynote address, reflecting on the significance of Women’s Month and sharing their aspirations for a future built on equality, opportunity and inclusive leadership.
The programme also featured a keynote address by Jillian Green, Editor-in-Chief of Daily Maverick, who encouraged learners to pursue leadership with confidence, integrity and resilience while embracing the power of informed storytelling and courageous decision-making.
Distinguished Guests Engage Learners
One of the highlights of the event was the opportunity for learners to interact directly with accomplished women leaders from diverse professional backgrounds.
Among the distinguished guests engaging with learners were Hon. Morakane Mosupyoe, Speaker of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature; H.E. Sanji Monageng, High Commissioner of Botswana to South Africa; and Mpho Boshego, author of Diplomatic Ties. Their conversations with learners focused on leadership, perseverance, overcoming barriers and the importance of education in shaping future success.
The interactive format encouraged open dialogue, allowing learners to ask meaningful questions while gaining valuable insights into leadership journeys, career development and public service.
Investing in the Next Generation
The event underscored the Delegation of Flanders’ commitment to investing in young people by creating platforms where learners can interact with role models who have broken barriers and achieved excellence in their respective fields.
By bringing together experienced leaders and aspiring young people, the programme fostered confidence, inspired ambition and encouraged learners to become active participants in shaping a more equitable and inclusive society.
The event concluded with networking opportunities over lunch, allowing learners, guests and stakeholders to continue conversations, exchange ideas and strengthen relationships beyond the formal programme.
As South Africa celebrates Women’s Month and the legacy of the women who marched to the Union Buildings in 1956, initiatives such as this demonstrate the importance of empowering young people with the knowledge, confidence and leadership skills needed to build a better future.
