by Saira Lortan
International Women’s Day is on Sunday, 8 March, and we’re here to let you know what Joburg has in store for the ladies. This day is all about the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women worldwide. Whether you want to celebrate by attending a conference, going for a run, or stopping by a book festival, Joburg has the spot for you to honour incredible women.
Women’s Day 2026 Theme: Give to Gain
We love a good theme, especially when it’s for a great cause like this one. The theme for International Women's Day 2026 is "Give to Gain". The idea behind this is to help create gender equality through abundant giving. The “Give to Gain” campaign encourages generosity and collaboration, which, in turn, will create opportunities and support for women.
Giving can take many forms, such as donations, knowledge, resources, infrastructure, visibility, advocacy, education, training, mentoring, or simply time. Whatever you choose to give, you’ll be contributing to women’s advancement. Let’s explore some awesome events and activities for this special day in Joburg.
Summits and Conferences
Forbes Woman Africa Leading Women Summit
The Forbes Woman Africa Leading Women Summit will run for an 11th time on 18 March 2026 at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg.
Held annually in honour of International Women’s Day, this hugely successful event features inspiring conversations, exclusive panels, one-on-one interviews, and cosy chats. It is a day-long summit showcasing award-winning editorial content at a gathering of African women leaders, changemakers, and innovators. There will also be awards and a celebratory after-party. It’s giving excellence meets extravagance, and we’re here for it.
Details: Date: March 18, 2026 | Sandton Convention Centre, 161 Maude St, Sandown, Sandton | +27 11 779 0000 | Tickets
International Leading Women Summit
The International Leading Women Summit takes place on 7 March 2026 at the Inanda Polo Club in Sandton. It is a gathering of visionary business women committed to shaping industries, influencing economies, and transforming generations.
The summit provides workshops, networking, and mentoring for women who want to elevate their purpose, voice, and influence, both locally and internationally. The dress code is business chic, so think pretty, powerful, polished, and put together. This is the event for all you business baddies out there.
Details: Date: March 7, 2026 | Inanda Polo Club, Forrest Rd & 6th Ave, Inanda, Sandton | +27 11 884 1414 | Tickets
UJ International Women’s Day Seminar
Do you thrive on ultra-academic, community discussions about women’s equality and justice? Then this half-day seminar is for you. The UJ International Women’s Day Seminar will take place on March 12, 2026, at UJ on Empire in Richmond, Johannesburg.
The event brings together community members, civil society organisations, NGOs, and researchers for a focused and important discussion on equality, justice, and the growing challenges of resource scarcity that impact women’s lives today. Can’t make it to the seminar in person? No worries! You can also tune in remotely via Microsoft Teams, so you really have no excuse not to attend.
Details: Date: 12 March 2026 | UJ on Empire, Corner Barry Hertzog and Napier Rd, Richmond, Johannesburg | Tickets
Social, Cultural, and Active Events
The Pack: International Women’s Day Run & Breakfast
Calling all fitness-obsessed ladies! The Pack Running is hosting an elevated running event in partnership with the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon. The Pack is an all-women’s weekly running group that welcomes all paces and fitness levels, so there’s no need to be shy if it's your first time running.
The run will take place in Rosebank on 7 March 2026, starting at Proud Mary on Cradock Ave. After the run, there will be a delicious harvest-style breakfast, also hosted by Proud Mary. It will be a safe space to slow down, connect, and celebrate women.
Details: Date: March 7, 2026 | Proud Mary, The Bank, 26 Cradock Ave, Rosebank, Johannesburg | +2710 023 3316 | Tickets
Johannesburg Festival of Women Writers
The Johannesburg Festival of Women Writers will take place at the Joburg Theatre on 7–8 March 2026. This free public event is packed with all things intellectual, like workshops, book launches, panel discussions, and more. The event brings together writers and readers for a celebration of women’s creative work.
If you’re one of those people who finish a book in one sitting, then you can’t afford to miss this. Hurry and grab your spot at this beautifully bookish event.
Details: Date: March 7-8, 2026 | Mandela Theatre at Joburg Theatre, 163 Civic Blvd, Braamfontein, Johannesburg | +27 11 877 6800 | Tickets
If you weren’t sure how to celebrate Women’s Day in Joburg this year, we’ve got you covered with these fun, empowering, educational, and uplifting events. Grab your girls and start planning to make this Women’s Day one you won’t forget.
