Rachel Kolisi, philanthropist and CEO of the Kolisi Foundation, continues to shape a life of meaning and influence rooted in service and purpose. On September 2, 2025, she received the Woman of Wonder Award from Woman & Home magazine in Cape Town in recognition of her leadership in social justice, women’s empowerment, and community upliftment. The honour coincides with her feature as the November cover star for Woman & Home’s Beauty Issue, which celebrates women who embody strength, authenticity, and grace.
The award ceremony, hosted as part of the Woman & Home Beauty Awards, gathered industry leaders, media professionals, and changemakers to celebrate women making a difference in business, philanthropy, and personal growth. Kolisi, described by editor Megan Paulse as “a woman who lives her purpose with conviction,” was recognised for her work through the Kolisi Foundation, a non-profit organisation she co-founded with her former husband, rugby captain Siya Kolisi.
A Life of Purpose and Philanthropy
Through the Kolisi Foundation, Kolisi has become a leading advocate for equality in South Africa. The foundation’s programmes focus on food security, education, gender-based violence, and sports development in under-resourced communities. Strategic collaborations with Adidas, BOS Iced Tea, Jetour South Africa, Levi’s, and Mercedes-Benz have extended its reach, linking corporate responsibility with tangible community outcomes.
In July 2025, Kolisi became a brand ambassador for Jetour South Africa, using her influence to promote women’s empowerment and family-focused initiatives. Earlier campaigns, such as the BOS Iced Tea limited-edition can partnership, raised funds for the foundation’s projects. Her collaboration with Adidas continues to expand access to sport in the Zwide community, reinforcing her long-term commitment to youth development.
Advocacy Beyond the Foundation
Kolisi’s impact extends beyond philanthropy. She is the co-founder of Rise, a wellness and empowerment movement that supports women in building confidence, balance, and leadership capacity. She also launched a clothing line that champions body positivity and encourages women to embrace themselves as they are.
As a public speaker, Kolisi is regularly invited to share her insights on resilience, mental wellness, and purpose-driven living at corporate and leadership forums. Her social media platforms offer an honest reflection of her journey, encouraging followers to pursue growth, faith, and self-acceptance with intention.
A Defining Moment
In her acceptance speech, Kolisi thanked the Woman & Home team, sharing that the last award she had received was in high school—a reminder of how far she has come. “Every chapter comes with lessons,” she said. “This season is about showing up fully—for my family, my purpose, and the women who look to me as proof that healing and growth can coexist.”
The November issue of Woman & Home, now available on shelves, captures that spirit. Styled by Amy-Lee Whitaker, photographed by Kyra Wiblen, and shot on location at the Palm House Hotel, the feature presents Kolisi at her most grounded, reflecting a balance of purpose, beauty, and quiet strength.
As the year closes, Rachel Kolisi stands as one of South Africa’s most compelling figures—a leader whose work continues to inspire change, both within communities and across the nation.
