Experience empowerment and celebration this Women's Day at Iziko Museums in Cape Town

Professor Thuli Madonsela will lead an inspiring conversation at Izi-Women 2026
Professor Thuli Madonsela will lead an inspiring conversation at Izi-Women 2026Picture: Henk Kruger/Independent Media

If you're looking for a meaningful way to celebrate Women's Day in Cape Town, Iziko Museums has put together a programme that goes beyond the usual commemorations.

From sunrise yoga in the Company's Garden to thought-provoking conversations with some of South Africa's leading women and an evening of live music under the stars, Izi-Women 2026: Honouring the Legacy. Empowering the Future promises a day of inspiration, reflection and celebration on Saturday, August 8.

Rooted in the legacy of the 1956 Women's March, the event honours the women who helped shape South Africa while creating space for wellness, leadership and artistic expression for future generations.

The programme unfolds across three of Cape Town's iconic heritage spaces, each offering a different way to celebrate Women's Day.

The day begins with the Women's Wellness Experience from 9am to 10:30am on the Company's Garden Lawn. Led by yoga instructor Meghan Pietersen, the free session includes yoga, mindfulness and restorative movement in a peaceful outdoor setting. Advance registration is required, and yoga mats will be provided.

From midday, the spotlight turns to leadership and meaningful conversation at the Women's Long Table Dialogue at the Iziko South African Museum. Hosted by television personality Thembisa Mdoda-Nxumalo, the discussion features Professor Thuli Madonsela alongside broadcaster Leigh-Anne Williams, radio presenter Martelize Brink and entrepreneur Babalwa Mbuku. 

Together, they'll explore leadership, mentorship, innovation and the role women continue to play in shaping South Africa's future.

The celebrations conclude with a Musical Tribute to Women from 6pm to 9pm in the historic courtyard of the Iziko Old Town House on Greenmarket Square. 

Hosted by Spitch Nzawumbi, the evening features performances by award-winning soul singer Brian Themba, Qaqamba, Sama Yoyo and the Nala Collective Jazz Ensemble.

Speaking ahead of the event, Iziko Museums' Business Development and Fundraising Manager, Namhla Moyeni, said the programme aims to honour the women who have shaped the country's history while creating experiences that inspire future generations.

“Women’s Day provides us with an opportunity to honour the extraordinary women who have shaped our nation’s history while creating space for conversations and experiences that inspire future generations.

"Through Izi-Women 2026, Iziko Museums is bringing together wellness, heritage, leadership and the arts to create a meaningful and memorable experience that celebrates women’s journeys across generations. We invite everyone to join us for this unique celebration of inspiration, sisterhood and empowerment,” said Moyeni.

Ticket information

Guests can attend individual events or enjoy the full programme.

  • Women's Wellness Experience (9am – 10:30am): Free (registration required)
  • Women's Long Table Dialogue (12pm – 3pm): R350
  • Musical Tribute to Women (6pm – 9pm): R350
  • Full Experience Package: R700

The first 50 people to purchase the full experience package will receive an exclusive Izi-Women 2026 gift pack and a complimentary one-year Iziko Patron Membership.

Event details

  • Date: Saturday, August 8, 2026
  • 9am – 10:30am: Women's Wellness Experience, Company's Garden Lawn
  • 12pm – 3pm: Women's Long Table Dialogue, Iziko South African Museum
  • 6pm – 9pm: Musical Tribute to Women, Iziko Old Town House Courtyard, Greenmarket Square

Tickets are available via Webtickets. Early booking is recommended as seating is limited.

Find Capetowner on TikTok @thecapetowner or Instagram @ccmonlineza