Story by Memory Chamisa
THE continued promotion and capacitation of women and girls has been cited as a vital cog in ensuring Zimbabwe achieves gender equality and equity for the development of communities.
Winners of the 2024 Women Changing the World Awards were honoured at a glamorous event in Harare Thursday night.
The awards are a brainchild of Dr Tererai Trent, a lady who has defied the odds to become a global women empowerment champion.
Some of the recipients applauded the recognition saying it offers inspiration to other women and girls across the globe.
“I was awarded for championing awareness on mental health and suicide. I once tried to commit suicide at some point in my life and suffered depression and I received counselling and support from family and friends which culminated in my healing and raising awareness. And to be recognised for my work is something that is touching and humbling,” said one of the winners, Vicky Mlilo.
Another award recipient, Florence Kayungwa said, “I lost my parents at a tender age and suffered period poverty as I did not have sanitary wear. I wrote a chapter in the book based on my experience and what some girls go through because they do not have the money to buy sanitary wear and for me to get recognition on a global platform it’s humbling and I hope girls are given sanitary wear and don’t need to go through period poverty like I did.”
“My active participation in shaping educational policies and programmes worldwide and my hands-on humanitarian work in Zimbabwe showcase my belief in the transformative power of education. By championing gender equality, sustainability, and the fulfilment of Sustainable Development Goals, I am changing lives and communities, demonstrating how education can be a powerful tool for global change,”said a winner, Dr Patricia Gonde.
For the Founder Dr Teererai Trent, the awards not only celebrate individual accomplishments but also seek to inspire others to create change.
“Our aim is to give voice to silent whispers. We want to lift women up all over the world and tell their stories. These exceptional women are here to awaken hearts, give permission to recapture dreams and inspire the women of the world to come together to forge a brighter path for all. The rising of women is the awakening of everybody,” she said.
Guest of Honour and Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Senator Monica Mutsvangwa described the awards as an initiative that will propel women into leadership and decision-making positions.
“I appreciate efforts they have made in championing women’s rights and opportunities, making room for them in the top tier plans of the boardroom. Their dedication and passion are transforming lives and building a foundation for lifelong learning and women empowerment. Their resilience, courage and determination are creating a more just equitable and sustainable world for all.
This programme is a great strides in the history of Zimbabwe in general and women in particular as it recognises the outstanding achievements made by women in various fields, particularly those in leadership roles. This is an opportunity to celebrate women who have defied societal norms, overcome surmountable obstacles and pushed for positive change in their respective fields. You are bridging the gender divide and this will increase our efforts towards Gender Equality,” she said.
The Women Changing the World Awards, celebrate and recognise women achieving outstanding success in areas such as sustainability, humanitarian work, leadership, advocacy, technology, product development and education.
