H-Metro Reporter
Old Mutual Zimbabwe has brought together over 200 women to explore leadership and professional visibility through New Faces New Voices (NFNV) Zimbabwe.
The institution is advancing women’s economic empowerment through financial education and entrepreneurship support at the grassroots level, while creating opportunities for professional women to develop their leadership capabilities and influence decision-making.
Lillian Mbayiwa, Old Mutual Zimbabwe Group Marketing, Public Affairs and Sustainability Executive, said, at the grassroots level, the financial services group supports financial education initiatives that equip women with practical skills to manage their finances, grow their businesses and make informed economic decisions.
“Old Mutual has been at the forefront of efforts to promote women’s financial inclusion, particularly at grassroots level, where access to financial services and financial knowledge can make a meaningful difference.
“By encouraging more women to access banking and financial services, and equipping them with the knowledge to manage their finances and grow their businesses, we are supporting their greater participation in economic activity and strengthening their ability to make informed financial decisions,” she said.
Mubaiwa, said women’s empowerment must also extend to professional environments, where barriers to career advancement, access to influential networks and representation in senior decision-making positions remain challenges.
Old Mutual has maintained a strategic partnership with New Faces New Voices (NFNV) Zimbabwe since 2020, working together to advance women’s financial inclusion, entrepreneurship and leadership. New Faces New Voices Zimbabwe, Country Director Olga Denga, and their partnership with Old Mutual provide an opportunity to strengthen efforts that advance women’s economic participation and leadership.
“At New Faces New Voices, we believe women have the competencies, experience and capacity to lead.
“Our work focuses on amplifying their voices, championing financial literacy and advancing financial inclusion so that more women can participate meaningfully in the economy,” she said.
Building on this collaboration, the two organisations hosted a Women in Leadership Breakfast Meeting under the theme “Her Brand. Her Presence. Her Power.”
The meeting brought together professional women from finance, business and other sectors to explore how personal branding, professional visibility and confidence can support career progression and leadership opportunities.
The meeting attracted diplomatic representation, including the Cuban Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Susellys Pérez Mesa, and the Botswana Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Sarah Sithabile Molosiwa. Mucha Muchengeta represented the Jamaican Consulate in Zimbabwe, alongside representatives from the Ministry responsible for Women’s Affairs.
The programme featured a panel discussion titled “The Woman Behind the Brand,” with Gloria Zvaravanhu, Delilah Takawira, Emily Nemapare and Eng. Gloria Gawa Bususu, moderated by Vera Musara.
Thembe Khumalo led a personal branding masterclass, while Sapientia Bhachi shared insights on professional visibility and digital presence. Audrey the Makeup Artist facilitated a practical session on grooming and professional presentation.
