Ugandan music star Priscilla Zawedde aka Azawi made a powerful impact at the 10th FORBES WOMAN AFRICA Leading Women’s Summit on March 5, 2025, in Pretoria, South Africa where influential females gathered including Tems, Gyakie, Zozibini Tunzi, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and Minnie Dlamini, under the theme “To The Power Of 10: The Rule-Breakers In Africa’s Next Chapter.”
The singer and songwriter shared the stage with many iconic women, including Tems (Nigeria), Gyakie (Ghana), Zozibini Tunzi (Miss Universe 2019), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (WTO Director-General), Minnie Dlamini (South African media personality), and Lesego Chombo (Botswana’s Minister of Youth, Gender, Sport, and Culture). Themed “To The Power Of 10: The Rule-Breakers In Africa’s Next Chapter,” the summit honored women who have defied odds in their professions.
Dressed in a bold and elegant outfit that reflected her artistic identity, Azawi captivated the audience with her remarkable journey—from a street food vendor to a globally recognized artist. She shared her humble beginnings, recounting how, at just 11 years old, she worked alongside her mother to earn school fees while nurturing her deep love for music.
Despite facing financial struggles, she remained committed to her dream. She took advantage of various opportunities in dance, songwriting, and even busking in China. Her breakthrough came with the release of “My Year,” a song she wrote during the COVID-19 pandemic. This song later became an anthem of hope for many Ugandans.
“Dreams don’t die if one refuses to let them go,”Azawi told the audience, encouraging young women to remain dedicated to their goals despite challenges.
She underscored the significance of collaboration among female artists, encouraging them to take ownership of their stories in an industry often dominated by Western influences.
“We are not just making music for Africa—we are making music for the world. And when African women support each other, we create a movement that is unstoppable,” she said.
