The 3rd Annual Women Take Lead Summit 2025, hosted by Actor Spaces, was more than a gathering of South Africa’s leading women in film, television, and theatre, it was a powerful declaration that women are reclaiming their rightful place in African storytelling.
Held on 29 August at Artistry in Sandton, the one-day event blended dialogue, screenings, art, and networking, drawing some of the continent’s most influential voices in the creative sector.
Among them was Lesotho-born actress Matšeliso Mohale, whose presence underscored the summit’s spirit of unity and collaboration across borders, the experience carried both personal and professional meaning for Mohale.
“Being part of regional summits like the Women Take Lead Summit is incredibly important to me, both personally and professionally, as a Lesotho-born actress,” she said.
“On a personal level, it is an opportunity to represent my country and show that women from Lesotho can be leaders and voices in the creative industry. Professionally, these summits are vital for networking and collaboration. They provide a platform to build relationships with filmmakers, producers, and fellow actors from across the region,” she added.
Actor Spaces Co-Founder and host Felicia Naiwa Sithebe described Mohale’s participation as emblematic of the movement’s mission.
“I was introduced to the incredible Matšeliso Mohale by the legendary Ntate Jerry Mofokeng wa Makhetha about a month ago, and from the moment we connected, I was moved by her passion and commitment to uplifting our people through story.
“Having Matšeliso accept this invitation is more than an honour, it is a powerful affirmation of our shared vision: to collaborate, to learn from one another, and to build a sustainable, empowered creative industry for Africans.”
This year’s theme, “Suited in Greatness,” celebrated belonging and empowerment. Felicia explained: “This year’s focus was on belonging, ensuring that every woman who stepped into the space felt seen, heard, and truly believed that she belonged in the room.
“Among peers, collaborators, and industry leaders, each woman was reminded that she has something deeply valuable to contribute to the future of the creative industries, whether in front of or behind the screen or stage.”
The summit programme was as vibrant as its theme. It featured a moving poem by Khosikhadi Mmatlala waMudau, a Threading a Character masterclass by Sheli Masondo (powered by Bomb Production), and film screenings of Balaclava (directed by Kagiso Sam Leburu) and Indlu Yenkonyo (directed by Khule Mayisa & Thozama Busakwe), followed by interactive Q&A sessions. An art exhibition by Serena Moodley Anderson explored themes of identity and memory.
For Mohale, one of the most impactful moments was a panel on low-budget filmmaking.
“A moment that stood out was a panel discussion over two zero-budget films, where those ladies spoke about how they produced those amazing stories. This resonated deeply with me because it highlights the power of taking initiative and being proactive. I have applied this by not just waiting for auditions but by actively developing my own projects such as The Mirror and Endurance. My goal is to create authentic stories that reflect our culture and experiences, and, in the process, create more roles and opportunities not just for myself but for other actors in Lesotho.”
The afternoon’s Debate & Dialogue session proved another highlight, with industry veterans Shoki Mmola, Rami Chuene, Hlengiwe Lushaba Madlala, and Lorcia Cooper-Kumalo tackling the question of whether the acting industry truly supports women. The discussion resonated deeply with Mohale and many attendees, reinforcing the urgency of solidarity across the continent.
Felicia reminded participants that unity lies at the summit’s core.
“As Africans, borders should never be barriers. We are one, united by our heritage, our values, and our ways of life. Collaboration is not a choice; it’s a necessity, a vital step toward sharing skills, experiences, and fostering cultural exchange that enables us to stand confidently on global platforms. Together, we can go further. Together, we rise.”
Speaking directly to young women in Lesotho, Mohale said: “Your voice and your story are your greatest assets. Don’t let the perceived lack of opportunities or resources stop you. Start small and start where you are. Use the resources you have, even your phone, to create. Build your skills through masterclasses, tutorials, or by studying great films and performances. The journey will be challenging, but it is possible. Every great actress, director, or writer started somewhere. Your passion and resilience will help you break through. Pele ke moo re eang, ebile hohle ke Lesotho etsoe our landscape ke motla-o-tutsoe.”
The event was elevated by the support of Audi Centre Braamfontein, which treated guests to chauffeured rides and premium test drives, adding a touch of elegance to the day.
With the overwhelming success of the 2025 edition, Actor Spaces reaffirmed its mission to spotlight women driving Africa’s creative industries. For Lesotho, Mohale’s presence served as proof that Basotho women are not only part of the global conversation but are shaping it.
“The more women take centre stage, the closer we move toward a world of happiness and holistic wellness. Her softness is not weakness; it is strength. It is the future,” Felicia concluded.
Summary
- The 3rd Annual Women Take Lead Summit 2025, hosted by Actor Spaces, was more than a gathering of South Africa’s leading women in film, television, and theatre, it was a powerful declaration that women are reclaiming their rightful place in African storytelling.
- “I was introduced to the incredible Matšeliso Mohale by the legendary Ntate Jerry Mofokeng wa Makhetha about a month ago, and from the moment we connected, I was moved by her passion and commitment to uplifting our people through story.
- “Among peers, collaborators, and industry leaders, each woman was reminded that she has something deeply valuable to contribute to the future of the creative industries, whether in front of or behind the screen or stage.
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* A former journalist and radio host who is passionate about media and it’s impact on society.
