Prime Highlights
- Telkom is strengthening its push for women in technology through its continued support of the Wired4Women Awards.
- Rising quality and impact of entries highlight growing female talent and innovation across the ICT sector.
Key Facts
- Telkom is sponsoring five out of 13 award categories through its units, including BCX and Openserve.
- Finalists have been shortlisted, with winners set to be announced at a gala event on April 16 in Johannesburg.
Background
Telkom is strengthening its support for women in technology through its continued backing of the Wired4Women Awards, as industry leaders highlight growing talent and impact across the sector.
Gugu Mthembu, Chief Marketing Officer at Telkom and a judge for the 2026 awards, said the quality of finalists has improved significantly since the programme began. She noted that entries now show stronger innovation, inclusivity and measurable impact, reflecting the rising influence of women in the ICT industry.
Telkom is the lead sponsor of the awards and is supporting five of the 13 categories through its group units, including BCX and Openserve. The categories include CIO of the Year, Top Tech Innovator and Rising Star in AI and Data Innovation, among others.
The Wired4Women Awards celebrate standout achievement in information and communication technology while encouraging greater participation of women in the industry. Part of the broader goal is to put more role models in front of the next generation and push the tech industry toward greater diversity and inclusion.
Mthembu said mentorship and sponsorship remain key to driving long-term change, adding that inclusive leadership will play a crucial role in expanding opportunities for women in technology.
Finalists have already been shortlisted, and interviews are currently underway. The winners will be announced at a gala ceremony scheduled for April 16 in Johannesburg.
The initiative highlights ongoing efforts to close the gender gap and support the next generation of women leaders in the tech industry.
