Online Reporter
Tafadzwa Zimoyo
Zimpapers Entertainment Editor
SOUTH African actress, producer and entrepreneur, Sonia Mbele, is set to headline the upcoming Ariel Financial Literacy & Business Summit – Africa, bringing her business acumen and creative industry experience to Harare.
Widely recognised for her role in ‘Generations’ and as the producer behind the ‘Real Housewives of Johannesburg’, Mbele has, over the years, evolved from a screen star into a formidable businesswoman.
Her journey into entrepreneurship, spanning production, brand building and investment, positions her as a fitting voice at a summit centred on financial empowerment and sustainable success.
Her participation is expected to add a strong creative economy dimension to the discussions, particularly at a time when African creatives are increasingly monetising their talent and building enterprises beyond traditional platforms.
“Success in business is not built on talent alone. It requires financial discipline, strategic thinking and a deep understanding of how money works,” said Mbele ahead of the event.
“When entrepreneurs invest in financial knowledge, they strengthen not only their businesses but also their long-term legacy.”
The summit, organised by Ariel Financial Literacy Hub, will take place next month bringing together policymakers, business leaders, entrepreneurs and young people under the theme “Money, Mindset Empowerment & Transforming Africa’s Financial Future.”
Backed by partners, including Old Mutual and the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, SME Development, the event reflects growing consensus that financial literacy is central to economic transformation.
Founder and CEO, Sippie Mungaraza, said the summit aims to move beyond theory and deliver practical impact.
“Africa’s financial future will not be shaped by policy alone, but by the everyday financial decisions individuals and businesses make,” she said.
“This Summit is about empowering people with knowledge, confidence and practical tools to strengthen their financial lives.”
The gathering is also expected to highlight the role of financial capability in strengthening small-to-medium enterprises, which remain the backbone of Zimbabwe’s economy but often face challenges related to access, planning and sustainability.
Business leaders such as Nigel Chanakira, Gloria Zvaravanhu, Sally Palmer and Napoleon Nyanhi are expected to contribute insights on investment culture, financial inclusion and enterprise growth, while youth advocate Brielle Washe will spotlight early financial education.
Beyond the conference, Ariel Financial Literacy Hub continues to extend its outreach into communities, engaging informal traders at key marketplaces such as Mbare Musika and Makokoba Market.
