Celebrating the 7th Real Woman Summit – April 11 & 13, 2025 | Mulungushi International Conference Centre, Lusaka
Interview by Utchay Afriwass

As we prepare for one of the most anticipated faith-based gatherings in Africa—the 7th Real Woman Summit (RWS)—I had the privilege of sitting down with the woman behind the movement: the dynamic and deeply spiritual Dr. Nellie Kangwa. Known for her prophetic insight, empowering voice, and transformative books, Dr. Kangwa has been shifting culture, faith, and leadership narratives for over two decades. This year, however, marks an especially personal milestone—an intersection of family, ministry, and legacy.
Utchay Afriwass: Dr. Nellie, the Real Woman Summit has become a fixture in the African faith and leadership calendar. As we step into 2025, what makes this year’s RWS so significant?

Dr. Nellie Kangwa:
This year is sacred for me. While the summit has always been about impact, 2025 is about intimacy and intentionality. It’s a year of honoring family—and that includes my own. On April 12th, between our two official summit days, I’ll be hosting a private ceremony I’ve titled Bride’s Blessing Day (BBD)—in honor of my only daughter as she prepares for marriage. She’s the quiet hero behind my public obedience. As a pastor’s kid, she has sacrificed time, privacy, and even emotional space so I could serve others. Now it’s my turn to pour into her.
Utchay: That’s incredibly moving. Let’s take it back. For those who may not know the history, how did the Real Woman Summit begin?

Dr. Nellie:
It began in 2018, as a gift. Every year during my birthday month—April—I reflect on how to be a blessing. Being born on April 17th, the only girl among six boys, I’ve always believed my life was a gift to nations. After giving my life to Christ in 1983, I felt the deep call to serve. RWS was born from that place: not just a platform for women, but a prophetic altar of empowerment. Since then, each summit has carried its own spiritual assignment.
Utchay: Take us through those assignments—what are some key highlights from past summits?

Dr. Nellie:
I could speak for hours (smiles), but here are some powerful moments:

2019, we honored Spiritual Fathers—men like Dr. Nevers Mumba, Bishop Joe Imakando, Bishop Joshua Banda, Dr. Francis Myles—who laid foundations for revival. They prophesied over Zambia’s daughters, and we’ve since seen those words manifest in boardrooms, pulpits, and global spaces.

2021, we celebrated Spiritual Mothers—warriors like Dr. Nawa Phiri, Bishop Nelly Chikwanda, Prophetess Isabel Ng’ambi. These women stood tall in patriarchal systems and paved the way with prayer and grit.

2022, I launched my book, “Transitioning to the Courts of Heaven.” We distributed over 1,000 copies. That book shifted deliverance from emotional drama to divine strategy—teaching believers how to access heaven’s courtroom for victory.

2023, we addressed period poverty by donating 1,500 menstrual cups to schoolgirls and incarcerated women. We also gave sunscreen to persons with albinism—because true ministry sees every need.

2024, I released “Boardroom to Bedroom,” a best-seller that gave voice to the silent struggle of high-achieving women who succeed professionally but often suffer relationally. I called for wise men who can lead without overpowering, and women who don’t have to choose between influence and intimacy.

Utchay: What a powerful journey! Let’s talk about 2025’s theme: “A Year for Family.” Why this focus now?

Dr. Nellie:
Because God is calling us back to the home. In our pursuit of vision, many leaders—especially women—are burned out, accomplished, but alone. My daughter’s upcoming marriage reminded me of something: if I can mentor the world but not prepare my own child for her next level, I’ve missed my first ministry.

This year, I want to celebrate and prophetically bless my daughter—not just as a mother, but as a spiritual leader. The Real Woman Summit this year becomes a celebration of balance: legacy, leadership, and love.
Utchay: For those attending, what can they expect at this year’s summit?

Dr. Nellie:
This will be our most holistic summit yet. Held at Mulungushi International Conference Centre, attendees can expect:

✅ Faith-filled Panels with voices from family life, business, and ministry
✅ Real Talk Sessions where nothing is off limits—identity, marriage, purpose, pain
✅ The Marketplace Expo, spotlighting women-owned businesses
✅ Prophetic Worship & Impartation
✅ And of course, Bride’s Blessing Day (April 12)—an invitation-only, intimate celebration of generational transfer.
Utchay: What message do you have for those watching your journey—especially young women?

Dr. Nellie:
Don’t shrink. Don’t apologize for being anointed and ambitious. But also don’t abandon your emotional or spiritual health in the process. Success in the boardroom means nothing if you’re broken in the bedroom. Build a life that is balanced by God’s design, not the world’s demand.

Also—to the daughters of pastors and leaders: God sees you. Your sacrifices are not in vain. You are not an afterthought. You are part of the legacy.
Final Word from Dr. Kangwa

“RWS 2025 is a call to wholeness. If I’ve ever impacted you—through a prayer, word, book, or conversation—I invite you to walk this moment with me. Let’s celebrate the generations. Let’s make it unforgettable.”

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