Thuso Mbedu Wins Big at Forbes Woman Africa Awards

South African actress Thuso Mbedu is celebrating a major achievement after winning a big award at the Forbes Woman Africa Awards 2026.

The talented star was named the 2026 Forbes Woman Africa Entertainer of the Year. The event took place on Wednesday, 18 March 2026, at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg.

Thuso took to Instagram to share her excitement and gratitude after receiving the award. She thanked the organisers and reflected on the special moment.

“Thank you @forbeswomanafrica for this beautiful honor. Last night left me so inspired. I’ll paste part of my thank you speech here,” she wrote.

She also shared a powerful message from her speech, encouraging people to work together and support each other.

“What we all do: regardless of the field we’re in requires resilience but it doesn’t necessarily always require isolation. Especially now. Collaborating in skill, resources and expertise will take you further than you can imagine. Let’s help each other build the tables we want seats at. Let’s help each other open the doors we want to see ourselves walk through. Let’s help each other create opportunities that will be enjoyed by generations to come. Asingapheli amandla: “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9). In closing, thank you again, Forbes Africa, for this beautiful honor. Hopefully, next time I’m up here l’ll be giving a report on how things went, giving real time examples of the results of collaborating.”

The organisers, Forbes Woman Africa, described her win as a celebration of African talent, saying, “Celebrating global African cultural influence.” Thuso’s win is another proud moment for South Africa, as she continues to shine on the global stage.

After her win, many celebrities and fans congratulated her on social media. Radio and TV presenter Zanele Potelwa praised her, saying, “A woman that empowers so many of us just by living in her purpose.”

Radio presenter and producer Relebogile Mabotja also showed love, writing, “I love this look!!!! Congrats gorgeous.”