Tactile Technologies will again sponsor the Women in STEAM Awards as the event marks its sixth edition, reinforcing the company’s multi‑year partnership with the Womandla Foundation. The awards have become a prominent platform for recognizing women who are breaking barriers across various fields, including science, technology, engineering, energy, AI, arts, and mathematics.
Company backs third‑year sponsorship
The South African firm announced Thursday that it will serve as the Technology Category Sponsor for the awards on 27 August 2026.
The ceremony will be held at the Avianto Wedding Venue & Events in Muldersdrift, drawing corporate leaders, investors, policymakers, and educators for an evening of recognition. The event’s attendees will have the opportunity to engage with like-minded individuals, supporting an environment conducive to collaboration and innovation.
Founder Mauro Mercuri said the support reflects Tactile Technologies’ belief that innovation flourishes when opportunity is accessible to everyone.
He added that the company’s involvement aims to recognize exceptional women while investing in initiatives that create lasting social and economic impact. By doing so, Tactile Technologies demonstrates its commitment to advancing diversity and inclusion in the STEAM fields.
Womandla Foundation’s broader impact
The partnership goes beyond the awards night.
Ticket revenues will feed the Womandla Foundation’s Reskilling Revolution Africa (WRRA) Programme, which trains women and youth in digital and employability skills. This initiative is key in addressing the skills gap in the country, particularly in the context of the rapidly evolving digital economy.
The foundation also runs STEAM Boot Camps that expose learners from partner schools to science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics careers, which is similar to a network success model. These boot camps provide hands-on experience, allowing participants to explore various fields and make informed decisions about their future careers.
These initiatives target gaps in the talent pipeline and aim to equip participants for the digital economy.
The WRRA Programme focuses on future‑ready curricula, while the boot camps provide hands‑on exposure to emerging fields. By supporting these programs, Tactile Technologies is contributing to the development of a skilled and diverse workforce, ultimately driving innovation and growth in the region.
For many attendees, the event will be a networking hub where they can meet potential collaborators and investors.
The schedule includes keynote speakers, panel discussions, and exhibitions that showcase lifestyle and innovation projects. This diverse range of activities will facilitate meaningful conversations, inspire new ideas, and support connections among attendees.
From a practical standpoint, the awards create a visible platform for women whose work is already influencing industry standards.
By highlighting these achievements, the event can help attract funding and mentorship to projects that might otherwise stay under the radar. This increased visibility can have a significant impact on the careers of these women, providing them with the resources and support needed to further their work and drive positive change.
Details for participants and guests
Tickets are sold through Quicket.
Businesses can purchase corporate tables for employees, clients, or partners. This option allows organizations to demonstrate their support for diversity and inclusion in the STEAM fields, while also providing a unique opportunity for networking and team-building.
The program promises a mix of formal recognition, thought‑provoking talks, and curated entertainment.
Organisers hope the gathering will spur meaningful conversations about the future of women in STEAM, especially as the country celebrates Women’s Month. By bringing together individuals from various backgrounds and industries, the event aims to inspire a sense of community and shared purpose, driving progress and advancement in the STEAM fields.
The event’s media contact is listed as the Womandla Foundation via email.
Guests can expect an inspiring awards ceremony, thought-provoking keynote speakers and panel discussions, networking opportunities with business leaders and innovators, lifestyle and innovation exhibitions, and premium entertainment. The event will be a celebration of women’s achievements in STEAM, as well as a catalyst for future innovation and growth.
