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African leaders, artists and changemakers were honoured at the first-ever WATB Iconic Awards, held during the 2025 Iconic Global Summit.
What Happened
The Women African Tourism Board (WATB) officially launched the WATB Iconic Awards 2025, celebrating trailblazers across leadership, arts and public service. The inaugural ceremony formed part of the Iconic Global Summit & Honours held under the theme “The Africa We Want – Sustainable Development is Everyone’s Responsibility.”
WATB President and Executive Chairperson, Ambassador Moleboheng Matli, described the event as “humbling and deeply personal,” sharing that each award was rooted in authentic, lived connection with the honourees.
The awards were presented by Miss South Africa 2025 First Runner-Up, Luyanda Zuma, who also delivered a keynote address. Zuma also presented the WATB Legacy Award (Posthumous), highlighting youth-led leadership in the creative economy.
Full List of Honourees
The 2025 WATB Iconic Awards were conferred to the following distinguished individuals:
- Dr. Danisa Baloyi
- Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma
- Dr. Jane Mufamadi
- H.E. Mrs. Neo Masisi
- Mr. Sello Maake Ka-Ncube
- H.E. Ambassador Saul Molobi
- Late Winnie Khumalo
- Late Oliver Mtukudzi
- Mr. Musa Motha
- H.E. Princess Stella Sigcau
- H.E. Governor Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti State, Nigeria)
Community Impact
Eastern Cape pride was strongly felt with the posthumous honouring of H.E. Princess Stella Sigcau, a historic leader from Lusikisiki, remembered for her contribution to governance and women’s empowerment.
The event amplified African unity and called for collective action in building sustainabl
