Chronicle Editor
Sipepisiwe Moyo, [email protected]
The founder of Mr and Miss Rural Zimbabwe, Esteemed Businesswomen Zimbabwe and Mental Voices Trust, Sipho Mazibuko, has been nominated for the SHE Global 2024 Awards.
The non-monetary business awards ceremony for female entrepreneurs in Africa, launched in 2021, honours African women founders who create jobs, inspire change and drive economic growth through their entrepreneurial endeavours.
With her impressive track record of founding impactful organisations, Sipho Mazibuko, nominated in the Social Founder of the Year category, stands as an ideal candidate for the award.
In an interview, Mazibuko expressed her disbelief and gratitude for the nomination.
“This is a huge milestone for me – a first for a woman from Matabeleland South and Zimbabwe. I’m shocked! Please vote for me as a win is not just for me, but for everyone who supports this cause,” she said.
Mazibuko who runs Esteemed Businesswomen Zimbabwe, Mr and Miss Rural Zimbabwe and Mental Voices Trust emphasised the significance of her initiatives. She expressed her heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported her vision of empowering women over the years.
“This nomination is not just mine; it belongs to everyone who has walked this journey with me,” she said.
She also highlighted her dedication to caring for orphaned girls, many of whom are HIV-positive and were abandoned by their families.
“I look after 76 rural girl orphans from their grandmothers, aunties and guardians. I assist by paying school fees and providing necessities, largely funded by the diaspora community,” she explained.
Some of the girls live with Mazibuko at Lavinia Gardens, where she has created a nurturing home.
Mazibuko shared the nomination letter from the SHE Global Awards, which reads: “We are thrilled to inform you that you have been shortlisted for the prestigious SHE Global 2024 Awards. Your outstanding contributions to entrepreneurship and your role in shaping the future of women-led businesses in Africa have earned you a nomination in the following category: Social Founder of the Year.
“The SHE Awards is more than just a recognition. It is a celebration of women founders like you, who are creating jobs, inspiring change and driving economic growth through entrepreneurship. By overcoming gender-based barriers and leading with innovation, you are not only transforming your own business but also empowering other women to follow in your footsteps.”
Voting for the nominees is now open.
Online Reporter