Printing SA hosted the 2026 Women in Print event on 7 August at The Chosen Convention & Expo Centre in Johannesburg, bringing together women from across the printing, packaging, signage and visual communications sectors. Sign Africa, Africa Print and Modern Marketing were proud media partners.
Celebrating its fifth anniversary, the event centred on the themes ‘Women Who Lead’ and #PressHERForward, combining professional development, networking and industry engagement through panel discussions, exhibitions and interactive experiences.
The event reinforced Printing SA’s commitment to recognising women’s contributions to the industry while creating opportunities for leadership development, mentorship and business growth. Delegates left with new professional connections, practical insights and renewed momentum to advance women across South Africa’s printing, packaging, signage and visual communications sectors.
Abisha Katerere, Head of Business Development and Marketing at Printing SA, welcomed delegates and reflected on the growth of the Women in Print initiative since its inception, noting that it has now engaged more than three million participants and attracted representation from 34 African countries. He highlighted the platform’s evolution into a pan African movement that continues to connect, inspire and empower women across the printing industry.
Delivering the formal address, Jermaine Naicker, Executive Director and Managing Director of Printing SA, emphasised that advancing women in the industry is ‘not just a social imperative, it is a business imperative’, adding that when women thrive in business, business thrives. He highlighted the importance of the PrintHER Mentorship Programme, describing mentorship as a catalyst for lasting industry progress by equipping women with the knowledge and support needed to build successful careers. Naicker also acknowledged the contribution of every woman in attendance, telling delegates that they are indispensable to the future and continued growth of the industry.
Dr Felleng Yende was unable to attend the event to deliver her address in person. However, a speech was shared on her behalf, highlighting the importance of creating meaningful opportunities for women in the workplace and wider industry. The message emphasised that women are not seeking special treatment, but equal opportunities to lead, contribute and have their voices heard. It reinforced that every woman’s journey matters, with leadership, visibility and the ability to influence change being essential to advancing gender equality and empowerment.
Christina E. Foxwell, Founder and Global CEO of Ignite Purpose, delivered the keynote speech. She encouraged delegates to take ownership of their personal and professional journeys by embracing courage, resilience and authentic leadership. Speaking on the importance of self belief, she urged attendees to step confidently into ‘the arena’ of their own lives, reminding them that they are not defined by the stories others tell about them or by their mistakes. Instead, Foxwell emphasised that individuals are the authors of their own stories and that effective leadership begins with personal growth, self awareness and remaining grounded in one’s values and identity.
Panel discussions formed the educational centrepiece of the event, bringing together industry leaders to share their experiences and perspectives on leadership, career development and the future of the printing industry.
Hosted by Foxwell, the panel brought together Ayanda Shabangu of Bidvest Paperplus, Charnia Yapp of Practical Publishing, Teresa Adinolfi of Redfern Labels and Alinah Fosi of Government Printing Works to discuss the importance of participation, leadership and continuous learning in the evolving print sector. The speakers highlighted that success in the industry requires women to show up, make their voices heard and recognise the value of their contributions, particularly in a sector that has historically presented challenges for women.
With printing undergoing rapid digital transformation, the panel emphasised the need for collective learning, strong leadership and knowledge sharing to prepare the workforce for the future. The discussion reinforced that empowering women through mentorship, self development and collaboration not only strengthens the industry, but also creates opportunities for broader societal impact.
The PrintHER mentorship panel brought together mentees Karabo Rabina Banda, Roxane Carolus, Mabotle Mphuti and Phumla Randela, alongside mentors Samantha Maizey, Che Wannenburg and Tendai Rukwava, to reflect on the impact of the programme. Both mentors and mentees described the initiative as a rewarding and life changing experience, highlighting the value of networking, knowledge sharing and the meaningful relationships developed throughout the programme. Panellists noted that the mentorship commitment was manageable while delivering significant personal and professional growth, with businesses also benefiting from the exchange of skills and experience.
Encouraging attendees to embrace every opportunity that comes their way, the speakers emphasised that everyone has the ability to be ‘the pebble that causes the tidal wave’. Participants agreed that the PrintHER Mentorship Programme was well worth undertaking.
Printing SA also promoted registrations for the next PrintHER Mentorship Programme, which connects experienced industry professionals with women seeking to develop their careers within the printing sector. The programme provides guidance, industry knowledge and professional support to help participants build confidence, develop leadership skills and expand their career opportunities. Organisers described mentorship as an important investment in the industry’s future, creating a cycle of knowledge sharing that benefits both mentors and the next generation of women entering the profession.
Alinah Fosi CEO Government Print Works, was recognised as ‘Women in Print’ for 2026, with an acknowledgement and certificated handover on the day.
The day’s programme combined professional development with interactive experiences designed to showcase innovation and encourage collaboration. Delegates explored the #HerMarketplace exhibition, featuring women owned businesses and products, while live personalisation demonstrations, creative experiences and interactive brand activations highlighted the latest technologies and applications. Beauty and wellness experiences, together with harvest table hospitality, created an informal setting for networking and conversation. These activities complemented the educational programme by giving attendees opportunities to engage with exhibitors, exchange ideas and strengthen industry relationships.
Marking five years of Women in Print, the initiative continues to recognise, support and advance women across South Africa’s printing, packaging, signage and visual communications industries. Under the ‘Press HER Forward’ banner, the annual initiative provides a platform for women to develop professionally, expand their networks and share experiences with industry peers. The milestone event reaffirmed Printing SA’s commitment to fostering leadership, promoting mentorship and creating opportunities for greater participation and progression for women throughout the sector.
PRINTING SA
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