As the transformative women’s empowerment movement in Zimbabwe continues to thrive, the Women’s Empowerment Hub (WEH) recently held its inaugural event, the Women Rise Tour and Workshop, in Harare last Friday and yesterday.
Founded by Bulawayo based award-winning entrepreneur Thina Mpofu Sithole, WEH aims to bridge the gaps in potential and power for women across the nation.
“I am an accomplished author and a prominent advocate for women's empowerment and I have been recognised for my impactful work with the Visionary Cadres Association of Zimbabwe (ViCAZ) and as a distinguished alumna of the United States Embassy’s Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE),” she said.
“However, I feel burdened by a desire to empower my fellow women to rise above their potential and I am happy that this inaugural workshop has set us on the right path to success.
“We had powerful engagements and I am humbled that we attracted participants from as far as Masvingo and Bulawayo, alongside many from Harare and its surrounding areas, marking a significant milestone in women’s empowerment and collaboration.”
In her address to the participants, Mpofu underscored the mission of the organisation and highlighted that they will be working with all progressive partners towards impactful women emancipation.
“We want to create a society where women and girls are empowered to lead and thrive as the standard, not just the exception and I started WEH because I have seen the barriers that women face in their journey towards self-actualisation,” she said.
“Many of us are exhausted, isolated, and playing small due to a lack of support.
“Through WEH, we aim to provide the tools, resources, and safe spaces necessary for all women whether they are unemployed graduates or teen mothers seeking to revive their dreams.”
The workshop featured a powerful lineup of speakers, each contributing their insights to the discussions.
Sibonokuhle Buhlungu, founder of Empowered Women spoke about the importance of intentionality and authenticity in the pursuit of excellence.
“I have seen women rise and some falter all benchmarked on their ability to show up intentionally and authentically. To achieve greatness, we must be true to our visions,” she said.
“My challenge to all of you is that you take advantage of progressive organisations like the Women’s Empowerment Hub to nurture your dreams without fear of what could be.
“The future is yours and you must grab it here and now.”
Takemore Mazuruse, a renowned brand strategist, shared practical and experience based valuable perspectives on building credibility in personal brands.
“A well-defined strategy is crucial for anyone looking to carve out their niche in today’s competitive landscape,” he said.
“Whatever you do, invest in building a credible and sustainable brand by implementing the right strategy and employing the right systems towards your dream.
“The possibilities are endless but you must be deliberate in your pursuit of growth and building legacy brands.”
Another speaker Zweli Banks rallied participants to unite and persevere despite challenges.
“We must work together and continue pursuing excellence. Embrace the right camaraderie and ensure a palpable sense of unity amongst yourself,” she said.
“Continue exchanging ideas and strategies and you will see yourselves achieving your dreams.”
An exciting highlight of the event was a tour of Divine Ndhlukula’s impressive farm, which served as a testament to the potential of women-led ventures.
As a successful businesswoman, Ndhlukula embodies the essence of the values promoted by WEH.
Her commitment to agricultural excellence and women’s empowerment provided real-life inspiration for the participants.
Mpofu expressed her heartfelt gratitude to all participants highlighting that the time is now for all women to lead and excel.
“This is our time. We are not just surviving anymore. We are leading, thriving, and building together. I am fully committed to this cause and I will continue leading from the front,” she said.
“My commitment to women's empowerment runs deep; and though I have been previously honoured with a Humanitarian Impact Award in late 2025 and also recognised for creating children's books that inspire future generations, I am not stopping in my drive towards community development.”
The success of the Women Rise Tour and Workshop is a clear indication that the Women Empowerment Hub is fast becoming a cornerstone for women looking to improve their lives and businesses.
With a growing momentum and unwavering commitment, the Women Empowerment Hub stands poised to expand its initiatives, ensuring that women’s voices echo across the globe, paving the way for a brighter, more empowered future.