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Joseph Madzimure-Senior Reporter
Herald Editor Victoria Ruzvidzo was honoured as an instrumental mentor by the Women in Public Relations and Communications Zimbabwe at a ceremony in Harare on Friday.
Ruzvidzo held several senior positions in her career, among them The Herald business editor, managing editor The Herald, Editor The Sunday Mail and is the first female editor of The Herald in its 133-year history.
NOIC commercial director Christine Chikwaiti-Jingura, and ZB Bank head of group marketing and corporate communications Emilia Mabika, were among those awarded under the same category.
The mentors’ category celebrates the vital role of experienced women who willingly share their wisdom and guidance with the next generation.
These seasoned professionals are the role models and sources of inspiration for those just starting in their careers, helping them to navigate challenges, identify opportunities and cultivate the skills necessary for success.
Ruzvidzo hailed the award.
“I feel humbled and honoured to have received such a prestigious award. My sincere gratitude to the Women in Public Relations, Communication and Marketing Zimbabwe and those who saw it fit to recognise my efforts.
“My bosses and all I work with at Zimpapers have been instrumental in all this. I am most grateful,” she said.
Ruzvidzo has previously won several top awards including the 2023 Megafest Strategic Leader of the Year Award.
She competed with seasoned industrialists across all sectors of the economy in a career that spans over three decades.
“Indeed, over the last two decades or so I have deepened my efforts towards mentoring young women and men who have a whole future ahead of them, but need to know they do not necessarily have to reinvent the wheel.
“Mentorship is one key avenue through which I give back to a sector that has invested so much in me. The media sector has transformed significantly due to technology and changing tastes, but nothing beats experience and it is this experience that I share every day and through structured programmes and projects I have been invited to participate in over the years.
“It feels good that this work is being recognised. We can only do more, with such motivation,” emphasised Ruzvidzo.
Zimpapers public relations manager Pauline Matanda scooped an award under the Data Diva category in recognition of her achievements and commitment to excellence and her dedication to harnessing the power of data to drive meaningful communication and inform strategic decision-making.
“I am humbled and honoured to receive the Data Diva award from the Institute of Public Relations and Communications of Zimbabwe. I’m overwhelmed with gratitude and appreciation.
“This recognition wouldn’t have been possible without the support and encouragement of my family, friends, colleagues, and mentors. Thanks to Zimpapers for believing in me and pushing me to excel” she said
Mutapa Investment Fund head of corporate affairs and communications Rugare Dhobbie, Upper Manyame public relations officer Ivy Chibanda and Stanbic Bank marketing, PR and communications manager Tendai Rafemoyo were also honoured under the same category.
Former ZBC public relations officer, the late Bridget Sibanda-Madzimure was honoured with a posthumous award for playing a pivotal vital role in the development of Zimbabwe.
Through her entrepreneurial skills, professionalism and competences, she contributed to the economic development of Zimbabwe.
The posthumous category is a poignant and powerful way to honour the legacy of women in public relations and communications who have passed away.
Sibanda-Madzimure’s contributions live on in the hearts and minds of those she inspired. Other women who won top awards include Shamiso Yikoniko, under the Industry Champion. Prominent public relations, media and communications strategist and author Marjorie Mutemererwa and Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe head of corporate communications and international relations Sibonginkosi Muteyiwa were honoured with Leaders category awards.
The Leaders category recognises women who embody the qualities of effective leadership, blending confidence and empathy to inspire and guide their teams to greatness. These women are the influencers who have earned the trust and respect of their peers through their integrity, authenticity and passion for work.
Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services national public relations officer Chief Superintendent Meya Khanyezi was honoured with the Community Givers award.
The award celebrates women who are committed to making a positive impact in their communities, going beyond their professional roles to contribute their time, skills and resources to people and places in need.
Institute of Public Relations and Communications Zimbabwe president Dr Fungai Muwara said the awards recognised women who have made significant strides in projecting a positive image and who tell the true story of Zimbabwe’s professional women.
“The awards aim to promote gender equality, empower women, and highlight the achievements of female professionals in this dynamic and ever-evolving field,” said Dr Murawa.
Events and public relations manager Elizabeth Rutendo Mukabeta was honoured with the Trailblazers awards, while MEFMI corporate communications boss Beatrice Tonhodzai was honoured with Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Champion award.
Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Monica Mutsvangwa, who was represented by chief director in her ministry Mrs Lilian Matsika-Takaendesa, said more women should take senior positions both in public and the private sectors.
“Progress is made by those who take action, who speak up. Let’s us also celebrate the possibilities of a better future, a future where women and girls are given the same opportunities and respect as their male counterparts,” said Minister Mutsvangwa.
Women in Public Relations and Communications is a professional networking organisation committed to educating, mentoring and empowering female public relations professionals.
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