Princess Stella Sigcau II to be Honored with the Prestigious Women of Impact Award
21 August 2025
by Kirtan Bhana - TDS
Her Royal Highness Princess Stella Sigcau II, a proud descendant of the illustrious AmaMpondo royal lineage, is set to be honored with the Women of Impact Award on August 29, 2025, at the Pretoria Ridge Conference Centre. This recognition celebrates her exceptional service to society, her tireless efforts in uplifting communities, and her steadfast commitment to empowering women and youth in South Africa and beyond.
A Life of Service and Impact
Princess Stella Sigcau II has dedicated her life to advancing education, cultural pride, diplomacy, and community empowerment. Her work reflects not only her royal heritage but also her personal determination to leave a lasting legacy of compassion and progress.
Philanthropy and Education
• Founder of the Khuthaza Ukufunda Initiative, which promotes a love for reading across the Mpondo Kingdom by donating books to schools and community libraries. This initiative extends to providing sanitary towels, toys for learners, and motivational sessions for matric students.
• Established the Princess Stella Sigcau II Skills Development Initiative, equipping community members with practical skills for economic self-sufficiency.
• Launched the Lwandlolubomvu Rural Development Program, facilitating cultural exchange programs, including opportunities for Mpondo students to study and experience life in Switzerland.
Diplomatic Excellence
With an impressive diplomatic career, Princess Sigcau II has represented South Africa in Thailand, the Republic of Congo, Botswana, and currently Hong Kong, China, where she manages political and economic affairs. She is also a contributor to The Diplomatic Society, where her insightful articles reflect her deep knowledge of global affairs.
Champion of Culture and Heritage
A passionate cultural activist, she co-founded the Mpondo Culture and Heritage Festival and established the Mpondo Reed Dance, initiatives that celebrate and preserve indigenous traditions while promoting unity in diversity.
Advocate for Women and Youth
A staunch activist for gender-based dignity, respect and equality, Princess Sigcau II has led impactful programs that empower marginalised women and guide impressionable young people, ensuring their voices and rights are recognized and respected.
Community Support in Crisis
During the COVID-19 pandemic, she spearheaded relief programs that delivered essential goods—including food parcels, masks, and sanitizers—to chieftainships, municipalities, and vulnerable communities across the Mpondo Kingdom. Her programs created a greater awareness of self-care health and wellness
Academic and Professional Accomplishments
Princess Sigcau II holds a BProc degree from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, a Master’s in International Relations from Stellenbosch University, a Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Pretoria, as well as a Business Management Diploma from Varsity College. Additionally, she earned a Certificate in International Relations from the DIRCO School of International Relations, along with specialized training in negotiation and conflict resolution.
The daughter of the late Nkosi Ntsikayezwe Sigcau and Ndlunkulu Nombethe Sigcau (née Madikizela), Princess Stella Sigcau II carries forward the legacy of her distinguished lineage with dignity, service, and vision.
Celebrating Women of Impact
Hosted by the Women Navigating the Future Network, the Women of Impact Award ceremony honours trailblazing women who have excelled in leadership, professional excellence, and community service. Princess Stella Sigcau II’s unwavering dedication to uplifting others and shaping a brighter future has secured her a place among these exceptional leaders.
Her story is one of resilience, service, and vision—an inspiration to South Africa, the African continent, and the world.