Business Writer
The Women in Financial Markets Conference 2025, hosted by the Financial Markets Indaba in partnership with Victoria Falls Nominees last week, has been described by participants as a transformative event, sparking crucial conversations and actionable strategies for gender equality in the financial sector.
Held under the theme “Shaping the Future of Financial Markets: Women Leading the Way,” the conference drew professionals from across the country’s financial services centre, leaving a lasting impact on attendees.
Financial Markets Indaba, reflecting on the conference’s success, emphasised the event’s role in fostering open dialogue and driving thought leadership.
In a LinkedIn post, they outlined key next steps to accelerate inclusivity: establishing mentorship networks, providing continuous professional development, advocating for inclusive policies, and equipping women with practical investment strategies. This call for ongoing collaboration resonated strongly with participants.
Manyara Chigunduru’s presentation on mentorship and sponsorship was a highlight, as noted by Gladys Mutsopotsi Shumbambiri.
Mrs Chigunduru stressed the importance of sponsors in career advancement and highlighted strategies for leveraging sponsorship for leadership growth, including demonstrating excellence, seeking advocacy, and engaging in mentorship programmes. Leona Nyawasha, an aspiring financial engineer studying at the Harare Institute of Technology, echoed these sentiments, emphasising the power of mentorship in breaking down systemic barriers and accelerating career progression.
Akudzwe Mhangami from Old Mutual Zimbabwe, who moderated the panel “Getting Men Engaged: Fostering Gender and Generational Balance,” highlighted the necessity of collaborative efforts in achieving gender equity.
She emphasised the importance of moving beyond equality to equity, recognising and addressing the diverse needs of all genders.
The panel, featuring both men and women, facilitated a frank and progressive discussion on creating inclusive environments.
Mrs Mhangami also commended Farai Mpofu’s session, which focused on empowering women through financial and legal literacy, highlighting the privilege of access to information and the responsibility to share it.
Duduzile Nyirongo CA(Z), a panelist discussing the investment landscape in Zimbabwe, focused on empowering women through financial literacy and strategic investment.
She stressed the need for mentorship, training and increased access to capital for women-led businesses. Farai Mpofu, who moderated the panel “Investing in the Future: Women, Capital, and Impact,” highlighted the unique investment opportunities in Zimbabwe and the role of women in the investment equation. She also drew an interesting parallel between the growth of restaurants in Harare, and the investment opportunities available in the country.
Lindah Mariwande, general manager at Old Mutual Life Assurance Company Zimbabwe, speaking on gender and generational balance, emphasised the necessity of including men in discussions about gender equity. She highlighted the business imperative of gender diversity for balanced decision-making and better outcomes. She also acknowledged Mrs Mpofu’s panel moderation, highlighting the discussions on personal growth, resilience and mental health.
Mrs Mpofu, reflecting on the panel, noted the challenging but crucial conversations about structural change and inclusion.
She praised Ms Mariwande’s firm and purposeful contributions, highlighting the importance of addressing real issues with maturity and respect.
Overall, the conference was lauded for its insightful discussions, practical strategies, and commitment to driving meaningful change in the financial sector. Participants left inspired and equipped to champion gender equality and shape the future of financial markets
