Reaching the summit of Mount Everest is often described as one of the toughest challenges on earth. For South African entrepreneur and philanthropist Angela Yeung, however, the journey became about far more than conquering the world’s highest peak.
On 24 June, Yeung will share the lessons from her remarkable Everest expedition during Workshop Wednesday at Workshop17 The Bank in Johannesburg, offering audiences an intimate look at resilience, leadership and purpose under extreme conditions.
A year ago, Yeung completed a gruelling 50-day expedition to the summit of Everest via the technically demanding North Side route. Standing at 8,849 metres above sea level, where oxygen is scarce, and temperatures can become life-threatening, she carried with her a commitment that extended far beyond the mountain itself.
For every metre climbed, one bra would be donated to women and girls affected by gender-based violence or vulnerable living conditions across South Africa.
The pledge became the foundation of the Impilo Collection Foundation’s #EmpowerHer campaign. Following her successful summit, all 8,849 bras promised through the initiative were distributed across all nine provinces through shelters, support organisations and frontline services.
The campaign reached a symbolic milestone during the 2025 16 Days of Activism, when 8,849 bras were installed at Constitution Hill, alongside the historic Women’s Jail, transforming the site into a powerful visual statement of solidarity and support.
Now, Yeung is taking audiences behind the headlines and social media celebrations to explore what the Everest experience taught her about leadership, perseverance and personal growth.
Rather than a mountaineering presentation, the event promises an honest reflection on what happens when people are pushed to their limits. Drawing on her childhood experiences, entrepreneurial journey and philanthropic work through the Impilo Collection Foundation, Yeung will discuss how self-awareness, discipline and a commitment to uplifting others can redefine success.
“Angela summited Everest, made a promise at the top and kept it,” says Penelope Meniere, National Marketing Manager at Workshop17.
“That kind of story about courage, following through and then using your platform for something bigger than yourself is exactly what this series was made for.”
Workshop Wednesday is designed to bring thought leaders and changemakers together in conversations that inspire both personal and professional growth. Organisers say Yeung’s story aligns closely with that vision, particularly because every ticket sold will directly support the Impilo Collection Foundation’s work.
Named after the Zulu word for “life”, the foundation currently runs three initiatives, #EmpowerHer, #EmpowerHim and #EmpowerThem, focused on education, mentorship and community support programmes throughout South Africa.
Tickets start at R50 for Workshop17 members and R100 for non-members, with proceeds going directly to the foundation’s projects.
Event details
Date: 24 June 2026
Time: 17:00 – 19:00
Venue: Workshop17 The Bank, Johannesburg
