malvernmugadzikwa
Emmanuel Kafe
WOMEN entrepreneurs should break societal barriers and stereotypes in order to become beacons of success that can be emulated by future generations.
Addressing this year’s Megafest Women’s Business Awards ceremony in Harare last week, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Senator Monica Mutsvangwa – who was represented by Deputy Minister Kindness Paradza – said women should never be defined by gender stereotypes.
“I implore all aspiring businesswomen, executives and entrepreneurs in this room to shatter stereotypes and become beacons of success.
“Let us remain focussed and always remember that women can do it,” said Minister Mutsvangwa.
“Gender should never define success. Let us acknowledge and appreciate the immense talent, creativity and resilience of every woman here today, as we build the diverse and inclusive business landscape.”
She said the Second Republic, under the leadership of President Mnangagwa, has been seized with empowering women for the past five years.
“The Second Republic has made great strides in gender mainstreaming by creating an environment that allows equal opportunities for all.
“We are here to witness the achievements of women entrepreneurs and women leaders from various industries who defied the odds by overcoming societal barriers,” she said.
“These women have impacted the lives of numerous people and have become role models of many, including in the business community.”
True success, Minister Mutsvangwa said, is defined by the positive contributions that women make to transform the world around them.
“These great women have inspired the next generation of women in business to endless possibilities that lay before them.
“In the media sector, where I come from, the issue of equality has taken centre stage. And today, I can proudly tell you that we have more women in leadership positions than ever before.
“That women are great performers is undoubted, and they occupy the top positions not by favour but by merit.
“They have proved that what men can do, they can do even better.”
The Megafest Women’s Business Awards came at a time when Megafest is celebrating 15 years of existence.
Two Zimpapers staffers walked away with prestigious awards. Zimbabwe Television Network (ZTN) general manager Ms Nomsa Nkala scooped the Platinum Award in the “Outstanding Women in Media” category.
The Herald’s Marketing Department staffer Ms Spindy Mazo walked away with the Gold Award in the “Outstanding Marketing Leader of the Year” category.
“I am overjoyed to receive this award. I want to give my sincere thanks to everyone who supported me and encouraged me to get this far,” said Ms Mazo.
Megafest Holdings adjudicators’ representative Dr Anos Mugadza commended the award winners for their stellar work.
Dr Mugadza said the Megafest brand is set to take “footsteps into the international arena”.
Online Reporter