COMMUNIQUÉ. G20 AWLO INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S CONFERENCE held in Hotel Sky Sandton, Johannesburg, South Africa. On Friday, 14 November 2025

Theme: “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability — Advancing Women’s Leadership for a New Global Order.”

The African Women in Leadership Organisation (AWLO), convened the 2025 International Women’s Conference in Johannesburg, South Africa, bringing together distinguished leaders, policymakers, academics, entrepreneurs, youth innovators, and gender-equality advocates from across Africa and the global community.

The conference held under the theme “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability: Advancing Women’s Leadership for a New Global Order” this served as a unifying platform to advance dialogue, collaboration, and action towards women’s empowerment and Africa’s sustainable transformation.

The conference commenced with an inspiring opening ceremony led by Programme Director Bongi Nxumalo, featuring the National Anthem, the AWLO Pledge delivered by Zanele Tsambo, and the HeForShe Pledge by Oscar Emetuei.

In her welcome address, Zanele Tsambo, AWLO South Africa Vice President, emphasized unity and shared responsibility in building inclusive leadership spaces.

Dr. Elisha Attai, AWLO Global President and Founder in his address reaffirmed AWLO’s commitment to amplifying women’s voices and strengthening cross-sector partnerships across the continent.

High-Level Panel Discussions

Panel 1: Women Shaping Africa’s Future Economic Development: This panel highlighted the roles of women in economic growth, diplomatic engagement, and governance.
The speakers stressed the urgency of scaling women-led enterprises, strengthening economic inclusion, and building institutional support across Africa.

*Panel 2: STEM Frontiers: Women Pioneering Science, Mining, Construction & Aviation

Panelists showcased groundbreaking achievements by women in traditionally male-dominated fields. Discussions emphasized STEM mentorship, policy-backed inclusion strategies, and the need to increase women’s visibility in industrial leadership.

Panel 3: Redefining Masculinity — Men as Catalysts for Women’s Development

Speakers underscored that gender equality requires male advocacy and societal mindset shifts. The panel session called for positive masculinity frameworks and community-driven engagement models.

Panel 4: Youth 4.0 — Innovation & Digital Transformation

Young innovators and entrepreneurs demonstrated the power of youth-led digital solutions. The panel highlighted skills development, access to digital infrastructure, and youth representation in policymaking.

Panel 5: Trade, Finance & Climate Resilience for Inclusive Growth

Financial systems, technology, agriculture, and aviation were examined to highlight how they can support resilient economies. Emphasis was placed on climate-smart solutions, sustainable financing models, and the integration of women into high-level economic decision-making.

🔗 Key Resolutions & Outcomes

Participants collectively agreed on the following:

1. Strengthen continental and global partnerships to accelerate women’s leadership in political, economic, and social spheres.
2. Increase investment in women-led businesses, STEM programs, and digital transformation initiatives.
3. Promote gender-inclusive policies, particularly in climate resilience, trade, and economic development.
4. Support youth leadership pipelines, ensuring young innovators have equitable access to resources and mentorship.
5. Advance the HeForShe movement, encouraging more men to champion gender equality and challenge harmful stereotypes.
6. Institutionalize AWLO programs that support intergenerational dialogue, leadership training, and community-driven impact.

AWLO extends profound appreciation to all the exceptional speakers who enriched the 2025 Conference with their expertise, insights, and leadership. We acknowledge ; Kimberley Malope, Refentse Shinners, Hasna Tizaoui, Viwe Tini, Dr Zanele Matsane, Innocent Khathi-Mathonsi, Captain Annabel Vundla, Oscar Emetuei, Nick Nzama, Zibuse Kunene, Zime Nxumalo, Alice Atieno Odera, Phiwokuhle Shabangu, Amonge Sinxoto, Themba Rikhotso, Thulani Nzimande-Dlamini, Dr Moffatt (Kang’iri) Ngugi, Thokozani Miya, and Tandokazi Nquma-Moyo.
Their contributions and conversations across the panels played a pivotal role in shaping the outcomes of the conference.

The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by Dr. Elisha Attai and Zanele Tsambo, acknowledging all delegates, speakers, and partners for their contributions to a transformative convening.

The Gala Dinner Reception, hosted by AWLO South Africa, provided a fitting celebration of African excellence, culture, and unity. Special appreciation to our Gala Keynote Speaker, Motlatjo B. Mohalwa, Head of Department, Gauteng Department of Economic Development.

In Conclusion the 2025 G20 AWLO International Women’s Conference reaffirmed Africa’s unwavering commitment to empowering women and shaping a more equitable global future. AWLO calls on all stakeholders to uphold the resolutions adopted and continue championing women’s leadership as a catalyst for sustainable development.

Amazing Women of Worth,
Distinguished guests,
Esteemed leaders and partners,
Trailblazers and champions of change, members of the press
Ladies and gentlemen,
Good morning, and welcome to the AWLO International Women Conference 2025

It fills my heart with immense joy and gratitude to stand before you today,
not only as we convene one of the most influential gatherings of women leaders
from across the globe, but also as we mark a significant milestone: 16 years of
the African Women in Leadership Organisation (AWLO).

Sixteen years ago, AWLO began as a bold vision. A vision to amplify the voices
of African women, bridge leadership gaps, and create a global platform where
women could rise and lead.
Today, that vision has become a living movement, one that transcends borders,
inspires generations, and continues to redefine what inclusive leadership truly
means.

As we gather here today, we are reminded that this moment is more than a
conference.

It is a call to action.
A rallying cry for solidarity, equality, and sustainability.
Our theme this year, “Advancing Women’s Leadership for a New Global Order”, reflects the urgency of our time.

We are living in an era where the world is being reshaped by new realities such as climate shifts, technological revolutions, political uncertainties, and evolving social dynamics.

Amid these changes, one truth stands firm: the world needs women’s leadership more than ever before. When women lead, communities stabilize. When women collaborate, nations prosper.
And when women stand in solidarity, the world advances towards justice, peace, and sustainable growth.
This conference will serve as a hub of ideas, innovation, and inspiration. We will engage policymakers, corporate leaders, innovators, and social architects to chart a collective course toward a future that is equitable and inclusive. A future where women are not on the sidelines, but at the center of decision
making.

I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to our partners, sponsors, and the AWLO leadership teams across the globe. Your dedication have made this journey possible.
To our members — past, present, and new — thank you for keeping the flame of AWLO burning bright. And to every woman and man who believes in this mission, thank you for walking this journey with us. As we celebrate 16 years of building leadership legacies, let us also recommit ourselves to the next chapter, a chapter defined by impact and transformation. Welcome once again to the AWLO International Women Conference 2025.
Which is a full alignment with the G20 SUMMIT 2025.

Thank you.
God bless you.
And God bless the African Women in Leadership Organisation.
Dr. Elisha Attai, Founder and President, AWLO

Empowering Words Dr. Elisha Attai, Founder of African Women in Leadership Organisation (AWLO), delivers a powerful speech at the International Youth Force Festival, urging African youth to take charge of their future and drive innovation. “Africa’s greatest wealth is not buried beneath our soil; it is walking on our streets.” “The baton is in your hand. The tide is turning. The time is now.” 

Read the full speech below and get inspired!

THE SPEECH:

Distinguished guests, 

Esteemed leaders, 

Fellow change-makers, and 

Vibrant African youth,

Good morning.

It is with great joy that I stand before you today to mark this year’s International Youth Day at the International Youth Force Festival. Our theme ‘Awake African Youth at the Helm: Driving Community Innovation, Transforming Africa’ is a declaration that Africa’s future is not tomorrow. 

It is here, and it is you.

Today, I speak to you not just as the founder of the African Women in Leadership Organisation, but as someone who has witnessed first-hand the power of young minds to challenge systems, disrupt the status quo, and build what has never existed before. I have seen communities revived and entire nations reimagined, all because young people dared to dream and took bold steps to act.

But let us be clear: dreaming is not enough. The future of Africa will not be transformed by wishes, hashtags, or slogans alone. It will be shaped by innovation rooted in purpose, one that solves the problems in our communities. This type of innovation is one that speaks to our realities and reflects the strength of our African identity.

As we gather here today, we must confront the truth: Africa’s greatest wealth is not buried beneath our soil; it is walking on our streets. It is the young woman in Ghana developing solar-powered irrigation systems for rural farmers. It is the young man in Kenya creating fin-tech solutions for unbanked communities. It is the university student in Nigeria who organizes clean energy hubs for markets. This is the force we must awaken and unleash.

The helm is before you. It is time to take it, not in arrogance, but in responsibility. Leadership is not about position alone; it is more about service. It is about stepping forward when others step back. It is about using your skills and influence to lift others as you rise.

At AWLO, we believe that inclusive leadership is the foundation for sustainable change. This means ensuring that women and men, rural and urban youth, the educated and those still learning, all have a place at the table. Innovation thrives in diversity. And Africa’s transformation will be incomplete until every young person is empowered to lead.

So, I challenge you today, don’t just talk about the change you want to see; become the architect of it. Ask yourself:

What problem in my community keeps me awake at night?

What skill, or resource can I leverage to solve it?

Who can I collaborate with to multiply my impact?

Africa is waiting, not for someone else, but for you. The baton is in your hand. The tide is turning. The time is now.

At this International Youth Force Festival, I urge you to take your rightful place at the helm, and steer our continent toward innovation and prosperity.

And when history looks back at this decade, let it be said that this was the moment Africa’s youth awakened, not to follow, but to lead.

Thank you, and may your vision be bold and your legacy enduring.

Dr. Elisha Attai, 

Founder, 

African Women in Leadership Organisation (AWLO)

Heartfelt Appreciation

We extend our deepest gratitude to our esteemed speakers: Mr. Atunyota Alibaba Akpobome, Remarkable Mary Akpan, Mrs. Kemi Leke-Bamtefa, and Dr. Mrs. Margaret Joseph Assian, for sharing their expertise and insights at the AWLO International Youth Force Festival held on August 13th at The Protea by Marriott, Ikeja, to mark International Youth Day.

The festival was themed ‘Awake African Youth at the Helm: Driving Community Innovation, Transforming Africa.’

We also acknowledge the generous support of our sponsors: South African Airways, Protea by Marriott, Ikeja, Access Bank, AWLO Abuja & Lagos Chapters, Aqua Volt water, and all individuals who contributed to the success of this event.

Congratulations to our Youth President, her team, and all council members for a job well done! Your dedication and leadership have made a lasting impact.

Thank you to everyone involved for making this festival unforgettable!

From elected officials representing the voices of Ghana’s national parliament, to advisors at AfCFTA, distinguished representatives from Private Family Offices of Sheikhs, development finance and venture capital practitioners, utilities engineers, multinational telecommunications executives, and central bank dignitaries — It was such exceptional company at The Grillroom, Fiesta Residences last night, April 28, 2025.

Appreciation to the distinguished speakers, Nana Sika Ahiabor, Manager within the Banking Supervision Department of Bank of Ghana, Angela Akosua Klufio (CFA) of RDF Ghana, Farouk Khailann, Senior Advisor to the UAE Royal Family and Founding Partner of StartBank Africa, Louis Yaw Afful, Group Executive Director of the AfCFTA Policy Network, and Antoinette Kwofie, Chief Financial Officer and Non-Executive Board Director of MTN Ghana’s Mobile Money (MoMo) platform.

Special appreciation to the Vice President of AWLO Ghana for a job well done, Sika Twum (ChRMP,CGP) and our Patroness, Oheneyere Gifty Anti

Thanks to the two fantastic moderators, our multiple award winner Natalie Fort, AWLO Ghana Media and Communications Director, Broadcast Journalist & TV Host together with Ebenezer Amankwah-Minkah, a Financial & Monetary Economics Researcher & Policy Analyst (EKAM Group).

Thank you very much for coming, Engr. Madina S. Adams, MIET-GH, MIEEE, MAMEG (Engineer, Electricity Company of Ghana & Vice Chair lady for the Women in Engineering Institution of Engineering and Technology- Ghana)

, Sheila Azuntaba-Addo (Deputy Managing Director, Consolidated Bank of Ghana) and Madam Madinatu Razak.

Congratulations to AWLO GHANA Chapter for such a POWER IMPACT gathering.

Empowering African women through financial literacy: knowledge is wealth! Financial freedom fuels independence.

AWLONIANS! let’s educate, empower, and uplift African women through financial literacy. – Dr. Elisha Attai.

This is a countdown to the August 23rd AWLO Pan African HeforShe Summit in ACCRA, Ghana… SAVE THE DATE & STAY TUNED.