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Ugandan music star Azawi delivered a compelling speech at the 10th edition of the FORBES WOMAN AFRICA Leading Women’s Summit, held on March 5, 2025, at the Sun Bet Arena, Time Square, in Pretoria, South Africa.
Taking centre stage among Africa’s most influential female voices, Azawi spoke passionately about the resilience of African women in the creative industry, the necessity of inclusivity, and the transformative power of young female artists in shaping the continent’s global narrative.
Dressed in an elegant yet bold ensemble that reflected her artistic identity, Azawi captivated the audience with her powerful personal story.
She shared how she started as a street food vendor at just 11 years old, working alongside her mother to raise school fees while nurturing a deep passion for music.
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She recounted the challenges she faced, from financial hardships to the setbacks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which threatened her career just as she was breaking through.
Despite these struggles, she persevered, channelling her pain and experiences into music.
Her song “My Year” became a national anthem of hope in Uganda, a testament to her belief that success comes from perseverance.
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Shaping the Future of Women in Entertainment
After her speech, Azawi joined a panel discussion alongside Tems (Nigeria), Gyakie (Ghana), and other leading creatives. The discussion focused on the challenges and opportunities for African women in the entertainment and creative economy, particularly in music, film, and digital media.
Azawi emphasised the power of collaboration among female artists and the importance of owning African narratives in an industry often dominated by Western influences.
She noted that African women are redefining the sound of global music and pushing creative boundaries.
“We are not just making music for Africa—we are making music for the world. And when African women support each other, we create a movement that is unstoppable,” she declared.
The panel also explored issues such as the underrepresentation of women in leadership roles in the entertainment industry, unequal opportunities, and the need for stronger platforms to amplify African female voices on the global stage.
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Beyond Music: Azawi’s Growing Influence
Azawi’s presence at the FORBES WOMAN AFRICA Leading Women’s Summit reinforced her growing influence beyond music. She is increasingly seen as a voice for change, empowerment, and representation in the African creative industry.
Her journey from humble beginnings to global recognition has positioned her as an inspiration to young African women. With her bold advocacy, undeniable talent, and unwavering commitment to female empowerment, she continues to break barriers and redefine success in the industry.
As she left the summit, her message was clear: African women are unstoppable, and the world needs to listen.