WONDER WOMAN

In a glittering tribute to female empowerment, Rachel Kolisi was recently celebrated at the Panache Women of Wonder Awards South Africa.

The awards, a beacon of recognition for trailblazers and architects of societal change, shine a light on remarkable women who exemplify resilience, leadership and profound contributions across various fields.

The Women of Wonder, founded by Farzana Mayet, has evolved into a global celebration, spanning cities from Durban, Johannesburg, Cape Town, Dubai, Qatar, London to India and Mauritius.

Since its inception, the awards have not only recognised achievers but have also celebrated nation-builders - women who inspire transformation, from entrepreneurship to education, healthcare, the arts and beyond.

Mayet said: "These women are more than achievers - they are nation-builders.

"From entrepreneurship to education, healthcare, the arts, science, corporate sectors, and social initiatives, these awardees exemplify the brilliance, strength and tenacity of South African women who continue to break barriers and shape the future."

Kolisi, taking to Instagram after receiving her coveted award, expressed her gratitude: “So incredibly grateful to have received an award from @womenofwonder_aw / @panachewowawards.

"It was such a beautiful evening celebrating so many amazing people doing powerful work in SA.”

Rachel adorned herself with exquisite pieces from her collaborators at Browns Jewellers, fitting the evening's enchanting theme of "diamonds and decadence".

Despite the heartbreak of her divorce from legendary Springbok captain Siya Kolisi, Rachel has been a lighthouse for single moms on the internet. 

Her regular posts of her struggles have been met with a lot of empathy, while she is quick to give advice with motivation messages. 

Through her vulnerability, her resilience has shone through and passed on to her followers. 

And she is also ready to lend a helping hand. 

Just this week, she helped raise over R37 000 for a young girl suffering from kidney failure.

While getting her nails done on Friday and noticed her technician Letwin's nails had been afgekou from stress. She opened up to Rachel about her sick daughter Destiny.

Letwin shared that she has been raising funds for Destiny's treatment as she waits for news about a possible donor for a transplant.

And since Rachel shared her Back-a-Buddy link five days ago, they have almost doubled the fund. 

If you can help out visit https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/a-gift-for-destiny 

Other luminaries also honoured included Dr Rowlene Wagner, activist Tina Thiart, director Amanda Bothma, celebrity chef Jenny Morris and Caron Jeaven, each showcasing the tenacity and impact of South African women who dare to break barriers and shape a brighter future.