The 2025 programme commences on the 10 April. Following a graduation ceremony on 17 September, this milestone intake brings the total number of women who have completed the programme to 100, says the ACA.

The WIL 2025 cohort completes a transformative six-month journey, emerging as empowered leaders ready to shape the future. Designed for women working at mid-management level and above in marketing and communications, the programme offers a blend of contextual strategy, personal mastery sessions and coaching groups led by professional coaches — delivered in a supportive community that converts potential into performance, adds the ACA.

Curated and led by Shireen Chengad, an Academic and Practitioner in Women's Leadership, Gender Studies and building inclusive organisations — the experience aims to equip participants to lead with confidence and impact. As the WIL 2025 graduates join a powerful alumni network, their success paves the way for future cohorts of women leaders to step forward, grow and make their mark, says the ACA.

"This programme is part of the ACA's ongoing commitment to recognise, amplify and advance the impact of women in our sector. Reaching the 100-graduate milestone marks real progress in driving this agenda — elevating voices, deepening capability and positioning leaders to add even more value and growth across agencies and brands," says Gillian Rightford, Executive Director of ACA.

"Women don't need fixing; systems do. The WIL journey is about voice, agency and purpose — building leaders who are self-aware, courageous and connected. This fifth cohort continues to demonstrate how learning becomes action — taking insights back into the workplace and applying them to drive lasting organisational change," adds Shireen Chengadu, Programme Lead at ACA.

The Delegates of the Fifth ACA Women in Leadership Cohort:

  • Anele Nzimande-Maphanga: Head of PR, Beauty, Wellbeing and Personal Care at Unilever.
  • Cays Margison: Media Account Manager at Dentsu — iProspect South Africa.
  • Christobel Koul: Account Director at Lobengula Advertising.
  • Dimakatso Mabena: Group Account Director of Duma Collective.
  • Dineo Mashiane: Marketing & Project Coordinator at ACA.
  • Gugulethu Mdiniso: Art Director at Duma Collective.
  • Julie Tshuma: Senior Account Manager at Twiga Communications.
  • Mandy Mbekeni: Social Media Manager of singh&sons.
  • Mbali Mchunu: Senior Strategist at The Odd Number.
  • Palesa Mosweu: Business Unit Director at MullenLowe South Africa.
  • Paola Masullo: Business Lead; Business Unit Director of MullenLowe South Africa.
  • Unathi Twala: Account Manager at Twiga Communications.
  • Tenille Abrahams: Operations Manager & Production at Singh&Sons.
  • Zimkhitha Mathunjwa: Digital Marketing Manager at Standard Bank.
  • Sakhile Mogale: Programme Manager; BAVC & ADCW ERP Lecturer Red and Yellow.
  • Phumelele Bohlela: Marketing Manager at Culinary Tiger Brands.

The ACA encourages prospective candidates and employers to look out for the 2026 intake applications. Designed for women in mid-management and senior roles, the programme aims to support both personal and professional growth, helping participants step confidently into leadership positions, concludes the ACA.

For more information, visit www.acasa.co.za. You can also follow the ACA on Facebook, LinkedIn, X, or on Instagram.

*Image courtesy of contributor