HerProgrezz Women Conference & Exhibition 2026: Suzan Ntebo Mthembu Champions Women Connecting for Prosperity and Purpose

HerProgrezz Women Conference & Exhibition 2026 Returns to Champion Collaboration, Leadership and Women’s Economic Empowerment

By Neontle Mogomotsi

There is something powerful that happens when women gather with intention. Ideas become businesses, conversations become partnerships, and dreams become action.

On 28 August 2026, the HerProgrezz Women Conference & Exhibition returns with an even bigger vision under the theme: “Women Connecting for Prosperity and Purpose.” More than just another conference, this is a movement designed to connect women with the knowledge, networks and opportunities they need to thrive in business, leadership and life.

Founded by entrepreneur, business strategist and women empowerment advocate Suzan Ntebo Mthembu, the conference has become a growing platform for women entrepreneurs, professionals, executives and aspiring leaders looking to build meaningful relationships while unlocking practical opportunities for growth.

For Ntebo, HerProgrezz was never about hosting another event, it was about changing the trajectory of women’s economic participation.

“HerProgrezz was born from a deep passion to create a platform where women could connect, collaborate, learn and grow together. I saw many women with incredible talent and business ideas, yet they lacked access to meaningful networks, mentorship, markets and opportunities. We wanted to bridge that gap by creating a space where women don’t just attend an event; they become part of a supportive ecosystem,” she says.

More Than Inspiration; A Platform for Action

This year’s conference promises far more than motivational speeches.

Delegates can expect thought-provoking keynote addresses, engaging panel discussions, strategic networking sessions, an expansive exhibition showcasing women-owned businesses and direct access to organisations offering funding opportunities, business development support and industry expertise.

While inspiration remains an important ingredient, the focus is firmly on practical outcomes.

“Prosperity comes through collaboration, shared knowledge and intentional relationships, while purpose gives meaning to the work we do,” explains Ntebo. “Throughout the conference, delegates will experience this through inspiring keynote presentations, interactive panel discussions, networking sessions, exhibitions and practical conversations that encourage women to partner, support one another and create lasting impact.”

Beyond the programme itself, attendees will gain access to industry experts, decision-makers and potential collaborators in an environment intentionally designed to spark conversations that extend long after the event concludes.

Where Collaboration Replaces Competition

At the heart of HerProgrezz is a simple yet powerful belief: women achieve more together.

Rather than promoting competition, the conference encourages collaboration across industries, generations and professional backgrounds.

“I hope women leave asking, ‘How can we work together?’ rather than ‘How can I do it alone?’,” says Ntebo.

“They should continue conversations around business growth, funding, leadership, wellness and building sustainable enterprises because those discussions have the power to transform businesses, communities and generations.”

This philosophy is reflected in every aspect of the conference experience, from structured networking opportunities and exhibition engagements to informal conversations over tea and lunch.

Learning from Leaders Who Have Walked the Journey

Every speaker and panellist has been intentionally selected not only for their professional achievements but also for their willingness to share authentic experiences.

According to Ntebo, delegates can expect insights from women and industry leaders who have navigated challenges, built successful careers and established thriving businesses.

“Our speakers were carefully selected based on their expertise, lived experience, authenticity and commitment to empowering others. Every speaker brings a unique perspective that adds value to our delegates.”

The result is a programme rooted in practical wisdom rather than theory, ensuring that attendees leave equipped with strategies they can implement immediately.

An Exhibition Designed to Unlock Opportunity

The exhibition component remains one of the conference’s standout features.

This year’s exhibition will showcase women-owned businesses across finance, health and wellness, beauty, fashion, agriculture, education, technology, manufacturing, property and professional services.

Government departments, development agencies and business support organisations will also be present, creating direct pathways to funding information, enterprise development programmes and market access opportunities.

It’s a space where entrepreneurs don’t simply exchange business cards; they build partnerships that can shape the future of their businesses.

Building South Africa’s Next Generation of Women Leaders

Looking ahead, Ntebo has an ambitious vision for HerProgrezz.

Over the next five years, she hopes the platform becomes one of South Africa’s leading catalysts for women-led economic transformation.

“Our vision is to see thousands of women building sustainable businesses, creating jobs, accessing funding, expanding into new markets and becoming influential leaders in their industries.”

With strategic partnerships continuing to strengthen the conference each year, the platform is steadily positioning itself as a key driver of entrepreneurship and inclusive economic growth.

One Conversation Could Change Everything

For anyone still wondering whether the conference is worth attending, Ntebo offers a simple reminder.

“One conversation can change your business, one connection can change your career, and one opportunity can change your life.”

Whether you’re an established entrepreneur, a corporate professional, an executive, a student or someone preparing to launch your first business, HerProgrezz offers an environment where meaningful connections meet practical opportunity.

As women from across South Africa prepare to gather under one roof this August, the message is clear: You belong in every room where decisions are made.

“Your dreams are valid, your voice matters and your leadership is needed,” Ntebo says.

“Walk into this conference with confidence, leave with purpose and remember that together we are stronger. When women connect, we don’t only change our own lives; we transform families, businesses, communities and the future of our nation.”

Because sometimes, all it takes is one room filled with possibility.