The International Women’s Forum South Africa (IWFSA), in collaboration with the Finance and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority (Fasset), has announced the successful close out of its flagship Women’s Leadership Programme (IFWLP).
The landmark initiative, delivered in partnership with Duke Corporate Education, has reached a major milestone empowering 1,000 women leaders in the finance and accounting sectors across South Africa.
Launched in 2022, the IFWLP set out to equip women with the tools needed to lead with ethical integrity, drive systemic change, and contribute meaningfully to the economy.
The programme combined academic excellence, mentorship, coaching, and international exposure, creating a transformative 10-month journey for women at executive and middle management levels.
The impact of the programme has been far-reaching, with alumni now occupying leadership roles across both public and private sectors.
Through the Executive Development Programme (EDP) and the Middle Management Development Programme (MMDP), participants gained access to expert-led sessions, one-on-one mentorship, and group coaching facilitated by IWFSA’s esteemed network.
The upcoming close-out event will mark this milestone with a keynote address by IWFSA President and Chair of Anglo American, Nolitha Fakude.
The programme will also feature a powerful panel of women leaders, including Irene Charnley, Charmaine Houvet, Lesego Sennelo, Dr. Mampho Modise, and others who have played key roles in shaping and supporting the programme’s success.
Shirley Machaba, Chair of IWFSA’s Leadership Development Committee, emphasised the importance of collaboration and vision in building a pipeline of ethical, diverse leadership.
“Through this collaboration, we have built a diverse pipeline of leaders whose courage and integrity will positively shape the future of our country,” she said.
Fasset CEO Ayanda Mafuleka highlighted the strategic significance of investing in women’s leadership in the finance sector.
“By investing in their growth, we are not just shaping careers—we are shaping industries and the economy itself. Through IFWLP, we can truly say: when women rise, we all rise,” she remarked.
Alumnus and Alumni Co-Chair Khosi Bhambisa reflected on the programme’s personal and professional impact, describing it as a transformative experience.
“It equips women with confidence, vision, and a global perspective, empowering us to lead change in our organisations and communities,” she said.
Founded in 2001 by patron Mrs. Zanele Mbeki, IWFSA continues to be a leading voice for women’s leadership in South Africa.
As the South African chapter of the International Women’s Forum, it connects over 8,000 accomplished women across 76 forums in 33 countries, focused on developing future leaders through world-class programmes such as the IFWLP.
