The State Theatre hosted an International Women's Day event titled 'Portraits of Power' which not only celebrated women’s advancement and leadership, but provided a platform where inspiring stories and powerful dialogues came together under the theme #Gain2Give.
Image: SA STATE THEATRE
Pretoria came alive with a powerful celebration of women’s leadership, resilience and storytelling as the South African State Theatre hosted the Portraits of Power International Women’s Day celebration in partnership with the Charlotte Mannya-Maxeke Institute.
Held as part of the global commemoration of International Women’s Day, the event brought together diplomats, government leaders, youth representatives and cultural practitioners under the theme #Gain2Give. The gathering created a platform for reflection on the achievements of women while reaffirming the ongoing commitment to gender equality and social transformation.
Hosted under the leadership of the Chief Executive Officer of the State Theatre, Shane Maja, the programme welcomed a distinguished line-up of guests including Deputy Minister in the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, Gauteng MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development Vuyiswa Ramokgopa, and National Youth Development Agency Executive Deputy Chairperson Bonga Makhanya.
The event also attracted strong international representation with ambassadors and diplomatic delegates from several countries, including Australia, Colombia, Ireland, Lithuania, Malawi, Romania, Singapore and Türkiye. Their presence underscored the global significance of International Women’s Day and the importance of international dialogue around women’s empowerment.
The 'Portraits of Power' event not only celebrated women’s advancement and leadership, but provided a platform where inspiring stories and powerful dialogues came together under the theme #Gain2Give. This display with portraits of iconic women leaders tells a thousand words.
Image: SA STATE THEATRE
The programme, directed by Dr Zanele Matsane, blended formal dialogue with artistic expression. Through storytelling, cultural performance and conversation, the event highlighted the enduring role of women in shaping communities, institutions and nations.
One of the highlights of the programme was the emphasis on intergenerational dialogue, bringing together young leaders and experienced policymakers in conversations about leadership, opportunity and responsibility. The theme #Gain2Give encouraged participants to reflect on how success can be used to uplift others and build stronger communities.
As a national cultural institution, the State Theatre continues to position itself as a space where important social conversations unfold through the arts. By hosting initiatives such as Portraits of Power, the theatre reinforces its commitment to celebrating women’s contributions while strengthening partnerships between the cultural sector, government and the international community.
International Women’s Day, celebrated globally each year on 8 March, recognises the social, cultural, economic and political achievements of women. Events such as the Pretoria one serve as a reminder that while much progress has been made, the work of advancing equality and opportunity for women continues.
Through dialogue, performance and shared reflection, Portraits of Power offered more than a celebration. It was a call to continue building a society where women’s voices, leadership and stories remain central to the future of South Africa.