Annual Women in Emergency, Disaster Management and Fire Services Leadership Conference

Annual Women in Emergency, Disaster Management and Fire Services Leadership Conference

7 and 8 August 2025, Southern Sun Hotel, Sandton

The fourth Annual Women in Emergency, Disaster Management and Fire Services Leadership Conference will be held on 7 and 8 August 2025 at the Southern Sun Hotel, Rivonia Road in Sandton, Johannesburg and is a premier platform dedicated to celebrating, inspiring and empowering women leaders in high-pressure sectors. As more women break barriers and step into pivotal leadership roles, this year's theme, ‘Empowering women leaders for a resilient tomorrow’, places a strong focus on resilience, innovation, collaboration and transformative leadership in an increasingly complex world.

Spanning two impactful days, the 2025 edition brings together a powerful mix of keynote presentations, expertled sessions, interactive workshops and live simulations. These elements are carefully curated to equip attendees with practical tools and insights in areas such as crisis decision-making, leadership development, Al-driven disaster response, climate resilience and mental wellness.

This year, the conference also places a spotlight on the experiences of women with disabilities in EMS, disaster and fire service championing inclusive leadership and addressing the unique challenges they face in the field. Through thoughtful dialogue and representation, the event reinforces its commitment to ensuring all women, regardless of physical ability, are empowered to lead with confidence and impact.

Key sessions

Beyond the content, the conference serves as a dynamic networking hub, fostering meaningful connections, peer learning and collaborative opportunities that drive positive change in emergency and disaster leadership.

Beyond the content, the conference serves as a dynamic networking hub, fostering meaningful connections, peer learning and collaborative opportunities that drive positive change in emergency and disaster leadership.

Package

R7 999 per delegate, which includes:• Conference drinks - evening• Reception networking event• Delegate pass for two-day conference• All refreshments and snacks during conference breaks including buffet lunches• Discounted accommodation rates at venue hotel subject to availability

Benefits of attending

Leadership development: Enhance your leadership and crisis management skills with expert insights and strategies.

Networking opportunities: Connect with a global network of women professionals and industry leaders.

Expert insights: Gain knowledge from seasoned executives, first responders and disaster relief professionals.

Innovation and strategy: Explore emerging technologies and strategies shaping emergency and disaster management.

Gender inclusivity: Learn about initiatives promoting gender diversity and empowering women in leadership roles. Mental resilience: Develop tools to manage stress and well-being in high-pressure environments.

Personal growth: Overcome industry-specific challenges with confidence and strategic leadership techniques.

Featured speakers Include:

• Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, MEC for Health, Gauteng

• Tash Lachenicht, managing director: Epic Emergency Medicine

• Nomathemba Mtshali, director: Strategic Support EMS, City of Johannesburg

• Sanky Mahlangu, head of safety, Transnet Rail infrastructure manager

• Dr Christine Peta, Global Disability and Disaster Management expert

• Shakira Cassim, general manager: ER24 contact centre

• Melony Shimane, chief fire and disaster manager, Lekwa Local Municipality

• Debbie Bester, owner, Parys Medix and chairperson: Fezile Dabi RIMS

• Charlotte Pillay, clinical coordinator, COO Health Tech Leader

• Bridgette Zungu, director: EMS, KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government

• Jabulephiwe Mpitso, manager: Fire and Rescue, OR Tambo International Airport

• Natasha Chetty, director, Cross Fire Management

• Madelyne van Emmenis, safety manager, Exxaro Resources

• Tshidi Lemeko, assistant director: Disaster Management, Fezile Dabi Municipality

• Lebogang Mosotho , director: Disaster Management, Limpopo COGSTA

• Dr Tlou Raphela-Masuku, senior lecturer, DiMTEC –University of the Free State

Please note that spaces are limited and are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis; early registration is strongly advised. Contact Eminence Corporation Solutions (Pty) Ltd on Tel: +27 10 023 3985 or email: info@ec-s.co.za.