Women’s Month: Leading Ladies 2025 Edition.2
Bestlife Insurance in partnership with Hot FM
The month of March saw Bestlife Insurance, in partnership with Hot FM, to feature on Redhot Breakfast Show, presenting the second edition of Leading Ladies. The 2025 Edition—was meant to celebrate women who lead, inspire and break barriers. This initiative honored the incredible women shaping Zambia and beyond. Their stories of resilience, courage, determination deserved to be shared and celebrated.
Celebrating Empowered Women
Throughout the month of March, we had the privilege of featuring remarkable women, each one exemplifying the strength and empowerment that every woman should embrace. Here are the highlights:
- Isabel Mukelebai the Executive Director, CSPR shared, “True empowerment means ensuring women have unlimited access to protection from all forms of violence and deprivation”.
- Her Excellency Pamela Chisanga Zambia’s High Commission to Botswana states that “What we want to see is a society where women, men, boys and girls all have an equal chance to survive, grow, thrive and develop their full potentials in whatever fields they choose”
- Joan Chirwa Founder & Executive Director, Zambia Free Press Initiative emphasized that ” We should encourage boys and men to be allies in this fight for gender equality. Together, we can build a fair and just society,”
Economic Empowerment and Breaking Barrier
Some powerful messages from women leading the charge for economic independence and breaking barriers:
- Mrs. Namakau Mundia Ntini Registrar-CEO PIA believes that “Empowering women economically is key to building a stronger and more equitable Zambia. Financial independence and equal opportunities are essential for building a fairer, more vibrant society,”
- Saray Khumalo, Speaker, Expedition Leader & Trailblazer shared, “Women deserve spaces where they can lead and excel without restrictions. Let’s continue fostering that environment”.
- Ms. Rekha C. Mhango, Deputy Governor- Administration, BOZ reminded us that “Both Men and women should take part in creating a gender balanced world by challenging discrimination and advocating for equal opportunities”.
Encouraging Women to Find Their Voices
As we uplift women, we recognize the power of community and mentorship:
- Taonga Banda, Cloud Solution Architect, Microsoft encouraged, “We should feel empowered knowing that our voice matters and while the journey to finding it isn’t always easy, we can draw strength from allies, sponsors and other women who have found theirs.”
- Kunda Mando, Asst Dir, Head Communication, Ministry of Communication reminded us, “Women, you are amazing! Don’t be intimated by other’s success, looks, lifestyle, or progress. Never limit yourself because you are a woman. Remember, God made you with respect so you can be respected.”
- Patricia Luhanga Corporate Affairs Manager, ECZ, “Empowerment is not just about receiving support, but also about giving it back. In reflecting on the women who have uplifted me, I realize it’s my turn to help others, especially the young girls who look up to me, by sharing my journey to inspire them”.
- Lushomo Koni, Advocate, Change Maker, Final Year Law Student shared, “Working hard alone isn’t enough if the door is still locked. We must do more than encourage women to work hard but actively support and empower women to unlock those doors and claim their place.”
Gender Conversations and Overcoming Challenges
The conversation on gender equality must be inclusive:
- Mpunga Chipepo Simukwai Founder of Anawachi Women’s Magazine shared, “Conversations around gender cannot happen without men in the room. We have brought them on board because we believe in partnership and together, we can drive meaningful change.”
- Mrs. Florence Mwewa, Owner of Mama Mwewa’s Kitchen said, “Every woman should know that she’s a very respected person, she’s a leader, a mother and needs to work hard. All women should know how to plan their time.”
- Hon Patricia Scotland, Commonwealth Secretary General reinforced, “Women must believe in themselves- knowing they are worthy is a big step forward. When we stand together in unity, we thrive. And we must fight against violence, as it remains one of the greatest challenges affecting women worldwide”
Claiming Spaces and Driving Change
It’s time to claim our rightful place in society:
- Brenda Bukowa Partner-Builders Village Limited Head, Head Media & Communication Dept, UNZA urged, “It is our time to claim our rights and engage in productive activities that empower us. We must be active in education because society will not wait for us simply because we are girls and women.”
- Mwanda Phiri, Africa Lead, Charter Cities called for action saying, “Now is the time for women and girls to assert their presence and influence unapologetically. Empowering women is not just a moral imperative but an economic necessity. When women thrive, societies flourish.”
A Message from Christabel Michel, CEO of Bestlife Insurance
“Empowering women is not just a theme for the month; it’s a commitment we all should carry every day. At Bestlife Insurance, we remain dedicated to providing financial solutions that give women and their families the confidence to dream bigger and achieve more.”
Conclusion.
Let’s keep creating spaces for success for all men and women, boys and girls, lifting each other up and ensuring every person has an equal opportunity to excel and make a difference.