Johannesburg, South Africa – 12 April 2025 Tara Penny from HOT 102.7 FM Crowned Overall Woman of Stature South Africa 2025 at Landmark 10th Annual Awards The 10th Annual Woman of Stature Awards South Africa dazzled guests at a glittering gala held at the Indaba Hotel, Spa & Conference Centre, where remarkable women were celebrated for their leadership, excellence, and community impact across 14 industry categories. The standout moment of the night was the crowning of Tara Penny as the Overall Woman of Stature South Africa 2025. Tara Penny is the Head of News at HOT 102.7 FM, where she leads a dynamic team producing award-winning human-interest stories. Her work—acclaimed globally, including at the New York Radio Awards—tackles pressing topics such as bullying, parenting, mental health, and substance abuse, while also bringing lightness with stories on theatre, online dating, and pop culture. Penny is also a driving force behind Hot Cares, the station’s community outreach platform that impacts lives daily through real, meaningful interventions. With over 700 nominations, this year’s awards marked a record high. A total of 98 finalists were shortlisted through a rigorous adjudication process audited by MGI RAS, ensuring fairness and transparency. The event also honoured Nonkululeko Gobodo, South Africa’s first Black female Chartered Accountant, with the Honorary Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by Old Mutual Black Distributors Trust. Her pioneering leadership in finance and transformation remains a beacon of inspiration. 2025 Category Winners Included: Woman in Arts & Culture: Yamkela Tywakadi (Sponsored by Woman of Stature) Woman in Beauty & Fashion: Lesley-Rae Coetzer (Sponsored by Woman of Stature) Woman in Coaching & Mentoring: Natalee Holmes (Sponsored by Woman of Stature) Woman in Community: Tracy Mcquarrie (Sponsored by Woman of Stature) Woman in Education & Training: Prof Lethiwe Nzama-Sithole (Sponsored by ApexU) Woman in Engineering & Mining: Tshidi Mndzebele (Sponsored by Woman of Stature) Woman in Financial Services: Thokozile Mahlangu (Sponsored by Nedbank) Woman in Health & Wellness: Prof Isabel Coetzee-Prinsloo (Sponsored by Woman of Stature) Woman in Media & Journalism: Tara Penny (Sponsored by Woman of Stature) Woman in MICE, Tourism & Hospitality: Estie Fourie (Sponsored by Woman of Stature) Woman in Sport: Tiffany Miguel (Sponsored by Woman of Stature) Woman in Technology: Nomfundo Mthethwa (Sponsored by Cyberlogic) Entrepreneur of the Year: Chantal da Silva (Sponsored by Old Mutual SME GO) CEO of the Year: Joani Jacobs (Sponsored by Universal Kitchens) Public Choice Award: Lesley-Rae Coetzer (Sponsored by Two Rivers Platinum) Fundraiser of the Year: Cindy Brits (Sponsored by Future Banker)   Charlotte du Plessis, CEO and founder of Woman of Stature Awards South Africa, reflected on the decade-long journey, saying, “Ten years ago, we set out to build a platform that would elevate, honour, and empower South African women. Tonight is a testament to the power of that vision—and to the extraordinary women who have walked this journey with us.” The esteemed Board of Directors—Charlotte du Plessis, Angelique Smith, Hazel Bango, Thandi J Mabena, and Tandi Potgieter—stood proudly alongside the winners, reflecting the organisation’s dedication to recognising women of excellence. The evening was brought to life by vibrant entertainment, including performances from Rachel Mathi, HunTer Leite—who debuted an original tribute song—and Lloyd Cele who lit up the stage with a high-energy, soulful performance that had the audience on their feet. MC’s Nicole Capper and Noni Khumalo brought charm and wit to the stage, keeping the audience energised throughout the evening. The Red Carpet, hosted by the effervescent Hunadi The Host, added glamour and flair as nominees and guests arrived in style. With heartfelt gratitude to our 2025 sponsors and partners: MGI RAS, Old Mutual Black Distributors Trust, Old Mutual SME GO, Nedbank, Cyberlogic, ApexU, Universal Kitchens, Future Banker, Two Rivers Platinum, Indaba Hotel, African Hills Safari Lodge, Hotel Sky, NeuroCoach & Mentor Institute, Event Synthesis International, Icarus Media, Primorial Solutions, African Brand Architects, Shoe Boutique, EPH Group, Evolve, and TCT Enablers. As the curtain closed on this milestone 10th season, one thing was clear: South African women aren’t just shaping the future—they are leading it. For media enquiries or interviews, please contact: Icarus Media | Tandi PotgieterCommunications Director, Woman of Stature Awards SAcommunications@wosawardsglobal.com Download Media Statement