New women empowerment programme launched

THE Beast Foundation, in collaboration with Elyseum Family Office (Elyseum), has launched the Lead Like a Girl programme to empower underprivileged young girls in Zimbabwe and South Africa.

Chairperson of The Beast Foundation, Tendai Mtawarira said the programme’s main thrust is to encourage positive change to the girls and young women.

“Lead Like a Girl represents a collective effort to uplift young women and foster positive change in underserved communities across Africa,” Mtawatira said in a statement.

“Through mentorship, scholarships, the influence of inspiring female patrons, and the establishment of a robust alumni network, our goal with Lead Like a Girl is clear: to provide unwavering support, comprehensive training, and quality education to young girls.

“We aim to nurture them into formidable future leaders, in turn, empowering them to guide the next generation of young girls as they forge their own unique paths.”

The programme also aims to foster leadership skills and generate opportunities for success among younger women in marginalised communities.

“Together, with the support of our partners and the dedication of our team, we’re laying the foundation for a generation of empowered and resilient young women who will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the world,” said the renowned former rugby player.

The two organisations have partnered development organisations like The Amathuba Foundation, The Imbeleko Foundation, Mondi South Africa and Higherlife Foundation Zimbabwe.

The first cohort of 15 learners from KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng in South Africa, as well as Harare and Bulawayo in Zimbabwe, was selected based on academic, sporting and cultural achievements, as well as financial need.

Lead Like a Girl aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal on gender equality.