Bulawayo Women Rise: Leadership Training Challenges Status Quo
BULAWAYO – Women in Bulawayo have received critical leadership training aimed at breaking barriers in male-dominated spaces and equipping them with essential skills for decision-making roles.
The training, facilitated by the Women’s Academy for Leadership and Political Excellence (WALPE) in partnership with the Bulawayo Progressive Residents Association (BPRA), focused on empowering women and youths with the knowledge needed to navigate leadership positions.
The programme introduced participants to key leadership concepts, including public speaking, climate change awareness, grooming, and Ubuntu/Unhu, helping them develop confidence and strategic thinking skills.
WALPE, an organisation dedicated to women’s political empowerment, provides technical and practical support for women aspiring to run for public office, striving to increase female representation in governance and community leadership.
According to Herald, WALPE’s Deputy Director Ms Jessie Chihora emphasised the significance of leadership training, stating that although women make up a large portion of Zimbabwe’s population, they remain underrepresented in decision-making roles.
She noted that such initiatives help challenge societal norms and create pathways for women to rise in leadership.
Young participants shared insights into the struggles women face in leadership pursuits.
Ms Zinhle Ndlovu (24) highlighted how a lack of family support often discourages young women from stepping into leadership roles, with traditional mindsets favouring male counterparts.
“There is still a belief that leadership is reserved for men. Many girls face challenges, including sexual harassment, when attempting to contest leadership positions, which discourages them from taking the next step,” she said.
Another participant, Ms Daphne Tengende (29), pointed out the limited resources and funding available for women entering leadership spaces.
“Women aspiring for leadership often struggle due to insufficient resources. There should be budgets allocated specifically to empower women at community, district, provincial, and national levels,” she explained.
She further emphasised the deep-rooted stereotypes that discourage women from stepping into leadership, particularly in politics.
“Women are frequently labelled aggressive or unfeminine when they run for leadership positions, which makes it harder for them to gain support.
“Society needs a mindset shift to recognise that women’s leadership is about representation, not competition with men,” Ms Tengende added.
