Dr. Criselda Kananda Leads Malibongwe Arts Festival’s Cultural Mission For Women’s Empowerment

In a world where representation is often symbolic, the Malibongwe Arts Festival has always been a living, breathing reminder that celebration must be matched with substance.

The Tribute To Women concert, long known for its soulful homage to feminine excellence, has entered a bold new chapter, one underscored by vision, resilience, and transformative purpose. At its centre stands Dr. Criselda Kananda.

A broadcaster, global health advocate, former presidential appointee, and social entrepreneur, Dr. Kananda has today been named the official Ambassador of the Tribute To Women concert and the newly appointed Chairperson of the Malibongwe Arts Festival Foundatio – the festival’s newly launched social impact arm.

It’s a poignant alignment. For years, Dr. Kananda has dedicated her life to building platforms for women’s advancement across sectors, from health and education to media, leadership and beyond.

Her lived experience as a health and wellness champion, including over a decade on South African airwaves simplifying health for the masses, makes her a fitting steward for a festival that exists to celebrate and empower.

“The Malibongwe Arts Festival Foundation represents more than a single event,” Dr. Kananda emphasizes. “It’s about creating a lasting legacy. Our mission is to empower women—particularly in the arts and culture sectors—by providing them with essential skills, visibility, and resources to succeed. Moreover, it’s about recognizing that our stories, voices, and talents hold the potential to transform the world.

The Foundation, established this year under Dr. Kananda’s leadership, aims to cultivate development opportunities for women in marginalised communities. Through education, entrepreneurship training, cultural upliftment and partnerships with government and private sector, it seeks to catalyse both social cohesion and economic growth.

With the Foundation’s formation now official, Tribute To Women 2025 carries a renewed sense of purpose. This year’s edition – set for Sunday, 24 August 2025, at Mark’s Park in Emmarentia – will spotlight not only musical brilliance but the potential of art as a tool for transformation.

Joe Chakela, the Festival Director for Tribute to Women, had this to say about this development: “For Dr. Kananda, who’s life has been a testament to the pursuit of wellness, justice and representation, this new chapter is a calling. This platform allows us to bridge celebration and impact. That’s what makes it special.”

The event promises an unforgettable day under Johannesburg skies – rich with rhythm, soul and purpose. Full lineup and lifestyle activations to be announced soon.