Golf has long been a sport associated with tradition, exclusivity, and, in many ways, a male-dominated landscape. But in recent years, women’s golf has been rewriting the script. The return of the Absa Ladies Invitational, in partnership with the Sunshine Ladies Tour, is more than just a prestigious three-day tournament—it’s a lifestyle statement that celebrates ambition, empowerment, and community.
Taking place from 27th to 29th March 2025 at the Royal Johannesburg Golf Club, this year’s event carries an increased R1.5 million prize fund, a 25% jump from the previous year. But beyond the competition, this event represents a shift towards inclusivity in sports and beyond.
More Than a Game: A Symbol of Female Empowerment
The modern woman is redefining success—balancing career aspirations, entrepreneurship, and wellness, all while pursuing passions that fuel personal growth. Golf, traditionally viewed as a corporate networking tool, has become a platform for women to establish their presence in both business and leisure.
Absa’s investment in this tournament aligns with its broader commitment to gender equity and inclusion. Through its Women Manifesto, the bank continues to support initiatives that drive female advancement, from leadership development to grassroots sports programs.
She Thrives: Empowering Women Beyond the Course
A standout initiative complementing the tournament is She Thrives, Absa’s flagship banking solution for women in business. Understanding that financial independence is a cornerstone of empowerment, She Thrives offers benefits such as waived monthly fees, business overdraft support, and discounted insurance—critical tools for female entrepreneurs looking to scale their ventures.
“Just like in golf, success in business requires strategy, resilience, and the right backing,” says Sanah Gumede, Managing Executive of Strategy and Client Value Management at Absa Relationship Banking. “With She Thrives, we are ensuring that women not only participate but excel, whether on the fairways or in the boardroom.”
A Lifestyle Event With Purpose
What makes the Absa Ladies Invitational special is its fusion of elite competition with lifestyle experiences that cater to women who aspire to more. This is not just about sport—it’s about networking, wellness, and the celebration of female success.
Expect to see leading female golfers like Lee-Anne Pace, Stacy Bregman, and Casandra Alexander competing for the top prize, while off the course, the event fosters engagement through leadership discussions, mentorship sessions, and social gatherings. Whether you’re an aspiring golfer, a businesswoman, or simply someone who appreciates the power of women supporting women, there’s something to take away from this movement.
The Future is Female—and It’s on the Green
From She Untamed to the Absa Cape Epic, Absa continues to create platforms that elevate women in sport. The Sunshine Ladies Tour as a whole is growing, with total prize money now close to R20 million—a clear indication that women’s golf is on the rise. Live coverage on SuperSport ensures that these moments of triumph and transformation are shared with audiences far and wide.
For many women, golf represents more than a game—it’s a lifestyle choice that fosters confidence, strategic thinking, and a sense of belonging in spaces historically reserved for men. With the Absa Ladies Invitational, that narrative is changing, one powerful drive at a time.
Join the Movement: Follow the conversation online with #YourStoryMatters, #AbsaLadiesInvitational, #SunshineLadiesTour or visit www.absa.co.za to learn more about She Thrives.
