Anel Botha GLAMOUR Women of the Year
The GLAMOUR Women of the Year Awards 2025 transformed Summer Place in Johannesburg into a celebration of extraordinary South African women on Saturday, 22 November. That evening honoured exceptional women in South Africa. The evening honoured visionaries, achievers and creatives who uplift communities and reshape their industries. Among these inspiring leaders, Klerksdorp’s own Anel Botha shone brightly as she received the prestigious Fashion Designer Game Changer award.
Her accomplishment is captured through the focus keyword Anel Botha GLAMOUR Women of the Year, which reflects her impact on South African fashion.
Anel Botha GLAMOUR Women of the Year award celebrates a North West success story
Anel’s story begins in the North West. Born in Mafikeng and raised in Klerksdorp, she attended Goudkop Primary School and later Wesvalia Hoërskool. She completed her formal Fashion Design studies in her hometown, grounding her creative journey in the community where her talent first emerged. Her first boutique, Anel Botha Couture, opened in Klerksdorp. It quickly gained recognition among women who valued elegance, artisanal detail and unique styling. This success naturally led to her Johannesburg studio, today a nationally recognised space where clients from across the country seek her designs. Over the years, Anel Botha Couture has become synonymous with refined craftsmanship and timeless femininity.
A national fashion force dressing South Africa’s leading women
Anel’s work has appeared on red carpets, stages and major events across the country. She has dressed numerous Miss South Africa finalists and queens, as well as well-known performers, media personalities and public figures. One of her career highlights remains dressing Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters for her Miss Universe crowning in 2017, a design that remains iconic. Her design philosophy is built on a simple belief: every woman is a masterpiece. Whether she is creating a bridal gown, pageant dress or evening look, she approaches each design with intention, artistry and emotional connection. Many clients describe wearing her creations as a transformative experience. Despite her achievements and growing national presence, Anel remains grounded as a wife to Graham and mother to her energetic seven-year-old son, Adam.
A night honouring excellence across music, fashion, entertainment and creativity
This year’s #WOTY2025 celebration brought together an inspiring mix of honourees. South African singer Demi Moore, global sensation Tyla and makeup innovator Pat McGrath added star presence and creative diversity to the evening. Veteran broadcaster Hulisani Ravele hosted the event with warmth and charisma, while audiences enjoyed a soulful performance by Thabsie. A fireside conversation presented by Disney+, led by GLAMOUR’s Features Editor Thobeka Phanyeko and lifestyle creator Thulani “Toolz” Hadebe, explored storytelling, representation and the evolving role of women in entertainment.
Recognising the women shaping South Africa’s future
GLAMOUR Editor-in-Chief Nontando Mposo spoke about the GLAMOUR Women of the Year Awards 2025 as more than a ceremony. She described it as a movement built around women who uplift, inspire and drive positive change. Her words celebrated the resilience, creativity and leadership represented by each honouree. Each winner received Ascent, a symbolic sculpture created by artist Emma Jane Halford, designed to honour women who rise with courage and help others rise with them.
A number of remarkable women were honoured on the night. The following is only a shortened list:
- Laura Wolvaardt – Sportsperson Game Change (Under Armour)
- Lamiez Holworthy – Muisc Game Changer (Hyundai)
- Anel Botha – Fashion Designer Game Changer (Narciso Rodriguez)
- Nicolette Mashile – Finance Game Changer (Bernini)
Zinhle Mashango – Content Creator Game Changer (Nestlé)
A proud moment for Klerksdorp and the North West
The recognition of Anel Botha GLAMOUR Women of the Year winner is a source of pride for the North West. Her journey from classrooms at Goudkop Laerskool and Wesvalia Hoërskool to national fashion stages is a reminder that world-class creativity is often born in small, supportive communities. Her success encourages young women across the province to believe in their talents and to pursue their dreams with confidence and determination.
