A Proud First for WATB - Inaugural WATB Iconic Awards 2025
21 December 2025
The Women African Tourism Board (WATB) proudly announced the official inauguration of the WATB Iconic Awards, formally conferred for the first time at the Iconic Global Summit & Honours 2025, under the resonant continental theme “The Africa We Want – Sustainable Development is Everyone’s Responsibility.”
The evening, marked by dignity and depth, saw WATB extend a warm and gracious welcome to distinguished VIPs and honoured guests. For WATB President and Executive Chairperson, Ambassador Moleboheng Matli, the moment was both humbling and deeply personal. As a young female leader, she has shared meaningful personal and professional journeys with each of the honourees, making the act of recognition one of profound conviction rather than ceremony alone.
WATB extends sincere appreciation to Dr. Temisan O. Louis, Convener of the Iconic Global Summit & Honours, for embracing and advancing this shared vision—one that elevated honourees beyond VIP status to become the founding recipients of the WATB Iconic Awards, a legacy honour inspired by Africa’s collective aspirations.
Inaugural Recipients of the WATB Iconic Awards 2025:
• 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
In closing, Ambassador Matli extends heartfelt gratitude to Miss South Africa 2025 First Runner-Up, Luyanda Zuma, for her exceptional contribution, not only as a speaker and powerful youth voice, but as the presenter of the WATB Legacy Award (Posthumous). Her presence embodied the future WATB stands for: youth-led leadership rooted in the creative economy, purpose, and pan-African pride.
This announcement marks only the beginning.
The official presentation of the WATB Iconic Awards 2025 follows, revealing the glitz, the glamour, and the unforgettable moments that brought this historic honour to life.
Don’t go anywhere. Stay tuned. The celebration continues.
WATB