The Portraits of Power exhibition is an international cultural diplomacy initiative aimed at honouring extraordinary women whose courage, leadership and vision have shaped nations and inspired generations, says CMMI.

The Portraits of Power — International Portrait Unveiling Ceremony took place at the Union Buildings Amphitheatre in Pretoria on Tuesday, 4 August, marking the official launch of the exhibition and aimed at bringing together government representatives, ambassadors and heads of mission, artists, academics, cultural practitioners and invited guests, adds CMMI.

The exhibition forms part of South Africa's Women's Month programme and celebrates the enduring legacy of Charlotte Makgomo Mannya-Maxeke, whose contributions to education, women's leadership and social justice continue to inspire generations, says CMMI.

At the unveiling ceremony, specially commissioned portraits of iconic women from South Africa and around the world were officially unveiled by representatives of The Presidency together with participating ambassadors and heads of mission, adds CMMI.

Each participating diplomatic mission selected a woman whose legacy reflects the history, values and aspirations of its nation, with South African artists commissioned to interpret these stories through portraiture, says CMMI.

The Portraits of Power exhibition aaimed to demonstrate the power of art to preserve history, foster cultural exchange and strengthen international relationships, while creating a platform to recognise women's contributions across borders and generations.

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni reaffirmed government's commitment to advancing gender equality and women's empowerment.

"In South Africa, we remain firmly committed to advancing gender equality and the empowerment of women. We recognise that inclusive leadership is not optional."

Minister Ntshavheni highlights the significance of Charlotte Mannya-Maxeke's legacy, noting her pioneering role in education, women's rights and social justice, as well as her historic achievement as the first Black woman to earn a university degree in Southern Africa.

The Minister also reflects on Mannya-Maxeke's role in advocating for women's representation and leadership, including her contribution to the establishment of the Bantu Women's League, says CMMI.

"Portraits of Power goes beyond celebration. It is a recognition that women's contributions transcend borders, cultures and generations," says Minister Ntshavheni.

She further called on society to move beyond celebrating women to actively investing in their potential, removing barriers to their advancement and creating opportunities for women to lead and participate meaningfully in all spheres of society, adds CMMI.

Honouring Women Across Borders

The inaugural Portraits of Power exhibition aimed to honours women from across the globe, including:

  • Mum Shirl of Australia
  • President Dr Mary Robinson of Ireland
  • Queen Marie of Romania
  • Wangari Maathai of Kenya
  • Sabiha Gökçen of Türkiye
  • Marta Vieira da Silva of Brazil
  • Madam Chan Choy Siong of Singapore
  • Josina Machel of Mozambique
  • Trismila Rentería of Colombia
  • Deolinda Rodrigues of Angola
  • Emilija Pliateryte of Lithuania
  • Dr Joyce Banda of Malawi
  • President Mireya Moscoso of Panama
  • President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah of Namibia

The exhibition also aimed to honour South African women whose courage and activism helped shape the country's history, including:

  • Charlotte Maxeke
  • Lilian Ngoyi
  • Helen Joseph
  • Rahima Moosa
  • Sophia Williams-De Bruyn

Each portrait aimed to represent not only the story of an extraordinary woman, but also an opportunity to connect histories, cultures and nations through the arts, says CMMI.

The Portraits of Power exhibition forms part of a series of legacy projects commemorating the 155th birthday anniversary of Charlotte Mannya-Maxeke, adds CMMI.

For CMMI, the exhibition provides an opportunity to extend Mannya-Maxeke's legacy beyond South Africa and place her story within a broader global conversation about women's leadership, equality and social transformation.

"Portraits of Power is a celebration of women whose courage, leadership and vision have changed the course of history. Inspired by Charlotte Makgomo Mannya-Maxeke's enduring legacy, this initiative honours remarkable women from around the world while showcasing the extraordinary talent of South African artists," says Thulasizwe Makhanya, Chairperson of the Charlotte Mannya-Maxeke Institute.

"Through the power of art, we are preserving history, strengthening international partnerships and creating opportunities to inspire future generations to lead with purpose and courage," Makhanya says.

As South Africa marks Women's Day, the Portraits of Power exhibition aims to provide an important reminder that celebrating women's achievements must also be accompanied by action, says CMMI.

CMMI says it envisions Portraits of Power becoming a flagship annual international exhibition and programme, using the arts to advance cultural diplomacy while celebrating women whose contributions have transformed communities, countries and the world.

South Africa's Women's Day commemorates the historic march of approximately 20 000 women to the Union Buildings on 9 August 1956. More than seven decades later, their courage continues to provide a powerful reminder of the role women have played — and continue to play — in shaping the country's future, says CMMI.

The Portraits of Power exhibition builds on that legacy by bringing together the stories of women from South Africa and across the world.

As Women's Day approaches, CMMI calls for the continued recognition of women's contributions, greater investment in women's leadership and stronger partnerships that create opportunities for women to thrive.

Portraits of Power is a celebration of legacy, leadership and the transformative power of women — brought to life through the extraordinary talent of South African artists, concludes CMMI.

For more information, visit www.cmmi.org. You can also follow Charlotte Mannya-Maxeke Institute on Facebook, X, or on Instagram.

*Image courtesy of contributor