For the first time ever, the StrongHer International Award – a global initiative celebrating unstoppable women – is coming to South Africa, and Kouga Local Municipality has the honour of launching it locally.
The award is part of an exciting international collaboration between the City of Birmingham, Alabama, and Kouga Local Municipality, with the first Kouga winner to be crowned in August 2025.
“We are not just celebrating women – we are elevating everyday heroes who are quietly changing lives,” said Kouga Executive Mayor, Hattingh Bornman.
“This award is about shining a spotlight on those who do not look for it but deserve it.
“Kouga is full of powerful, purpose-driven women, and now the world gets to see that too.”
The StrongHer Award has been running successfully in Birmingham for seven years honouring extraordinary women who uplift, inspire and serve their communities.
One woman from Kouga will now be honoured in the same way as Birmingham, Alabama women, a result of the newly established relationship between Birmingham, Alabama, USA and Kouga Local Municipality.
Who can be nominated?
Women who:
• Reside in the Kouga region.
• Fly under the radar, but is not already celebrated.
• Have a big community impact.
• Show authenticity, integrity, and leadership.
• Are actively involved in current, relevant work (not just historical achievements).
• Can show real results and have a story that moves and motivates others.
What you will need to nominate:
• Her full name.
• Age
• Town of residence.
• Name of her organisation or initiative.
• A brief explanation of why her story matters.
Residents can nominate more than one woman – just use a separate form for each submission.
Submit nominations via this quick and easy form: https://forms.gle/YEN11K3umje8tJUh8
“Every community has women who makes an impact – quietly, powerfully, and without expecting anything in return,” Bornman added.
“This is our opportunity to say thank you.”
Important dates:
• Nomination deadline: Sunday, 17 August 2025 at 23:59.
• Award presentation: Thursday, 21 August 2025 by Mayor Hattingh Bornman.
