DSE News Network
Johannesburg, South Africa
As economic uncertainty, technological disruption and shifting global markets reshape the business landscape – women entrepreneurs and leaders across Africa are seeking new pathways to growth, investment and sustainability. Responding to this urgent need, the Yes We Can Business Women Network (YWC) will host its 3rd Annual Multi-Sector International Conference under the theme “Capital Without Borders: Unlocking Cross-Border Opportunities, Social Impact & Sustainable Wealth for Women.”
Taking place in Johannesburg, South Africa, from 31 July to 2 August 2026, the conference is expected to attract entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, academics, development practitioners, corporate leaders and ecosystem builders from across the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region and beyond.
Hosted by the Yes We Can Business Women Network and supported by the Rotary Club of Morningside and Hearts Unlimited, the three-day event aims to provide practical solutions, strategic connections and investment opportunities for women and youth-led enterprises operating in an increasingly complex global economy.
Addressing the Challenges of a Changing World
Today’s entrepreneurs face a unique combination of challenges. Global conflicts, geopolitical tensions, changing trade policies, rising living costs, climate pressures and rapid advances in artificial intelligence are transforming the way businesses operate. At the same time, many women and youth entrepreneurs continue to struggle with limited access to capital, markets and business development opportunities.
The YWC International Conference seeks to address these realities by bringing together thought leaders and industry experts to explore innovative approaches to entrepreneurship, investment readiness, cross-border trade and sustainable wealth creation.
According to conference organisers, the event will focus on helping entrepreneurs identify opportunities emerging from global disruption while equipping them with the skills, networks and resources needed to compete effectively in regional and international markets.
A Focus on Capital Without Borders
The conference theme, “Capital Without Borders,” reflects a growing recognition that wealth creation and business growth increasingly depend on collaboration across sectors, industries and national boundaries.
Discussions will explore how entrepreneurs can access alternative funding sources, build resilient enterprises, leverage technology, participate in regional value chains and create measurable social impact while pursuing profitability.
Key conference objectives include promoting cross-border entrepreneurship and trade, improving investment readiness, building future-focused skills, encouraging participation in emerging industries, supporting green economy opportunities and fostering strategic partnerships that can accelerate enterprise growth.
Three Days of Learning, Networking and Opportunity
The programme has been designed to provide a balance of strategic insights, practical business knowledge and networking opportunities.
Day One will focus on capital access, business resilience and regional trade opportunities. Sessions will examine the impact of global economic shocks, tariffs and changing supply chains, while investors and funders will share insights into what businesses need to secure funding. Delegates will also participate in discussions around ESG, green finance and cross-border market opportunities. A highlight of the day will be the Capital Without Borders Deal Room, where entrepreneurs will have opportunities to connect directly with investors and potential partners.
Day Two shifts attention to innovation and future economies. Topics will include artificial intelligence, digital transformation, future jobs and future skills, entrepreneurship in emerging sectors and wealth creation strategies.
Day Three will focus on personal leadership, wellbeing and long-term sustainability. Sessions will explore mental health, entrepreneur resilience, leadership development and the growing wellness economy. The conference will conclude with a book launch, thought leadership discussions and a wellness picnic designed to encourage meaningful networking and relationship building.
Distinguished Speakers and Industry Experts
The conference will feature a diverse lineup of respected speakers and thought leaders, including Professor McEdward Murimbika, Dr Sane Ngidi, Ann Kleynhans, Faith Mangope, Dr Tsitsi Senga-Makuve, Dr Nera Naidoo, Yanus Rubidge, Susan Madodo and Christine Gordon.
These speakers bring expertise across entrepreneurship, leadership, innovation, finance, media, health and sustainable development, offering delegates valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of business.
A Platform for Impact
Beyond discussions and networking, organisers envision the conference as a catalyst for tangible outcomes. By connecting entrepreneurs with investors, mentors, policymakers and strategic partners, the event seeks to unlock new business opportunities, strengthen regional collaboration and accelerate the growth of women-led enterprises.
The conference also highlights the critical role women entrepreneurs play in driving economic development, job creation and social impact throughout Africa.
For media organisations, the event presents compelling stories around women-led business growth, youth innovation, artificial intelligence, access to capital, climate-smart entrepreneurship and regional trade. Opportunities will include speaker interviews, investor discussions, Deal Room coverage, Lions Den pitches and entrepreneur success stories.
As Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem continues to evolve, the YWC Multi-Sector International Conference 2026 promises to be an important gathering for those committed to building inclusive, innovative and sustainable economic growth across borders.
