THE vibrant atmosphere of the Stanbic-sponsored Jacaranda Music Festival 2024 was not just a celebration of music but also an invaluable lesson in women's leadership.

As I stepped into the VVIP space, courtesy of my friend, Nyasha's tickets, I was immediately struck by the energy and enthusiasm radiating from the crowd. This festival was more than a mere gathering; it was a true narrative resonating with the threads of ambition, empowerment, and inspiration, particularly among the women who were leading the charge in various sectors.

One of the highlights of my experience was meeting Betty Murambadoro, the executive director of Corporate and Investment Banking at Stanbic. Her presence was commanding but yet approachable, embodying the qualities of a true leader.

She, along with other remarkable women from Stanbic, created an environment that fostered connection and collaboration. It was refreshing to see women in positions of power not just leading but also uplifting others around them.

Their stories and experiences served as a powerful reminder of the importance of mentorship and the strength found in community. The festival provided a unique backdrop for networking and personal growth. Surrounded by these influential women, I began to reflect on the qualities that define effective leadership, particularly in the context of women's leadership.

One of the most striking aspects of the women I met at the festival was their authenticity. They were unapologetically themselves, openly sharing their journeys, challenges, and triumphs without pretence.

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This level of honesty fostered a deep sense of trust and openness among attendees, creating a vibrant atmosphere where meaningful connections could flourish. Authenticity is a powerful tool in leadership; when leaders are genuine; they cultivate stronger relationships and encourage others to express themselves freely.

Women leaders should embrace their unique voices and experiences, as these qualities not only set them apart but also empower them to inspire those around them. The festival also underscored the importance of collaboration among women.

Betty and her colleagues exemplified this principle by actively engaging with one another, sharing resources, and supporting each other's endeavours. They understood that lifting each other up was not just beneficial for individual success but essential for collective progress.

Women in leadership roles should prioritise building networks and partnerships, as collaboration can lead to innovative solutions and greater impact. By working together, women can break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and create opportunities for one another, ultimately paving the way for future generations of female leaders.

Throughout the festival, the theme of mentorship emerged repeatedly. Many of the women I spoke with emphasised the mentors, who had guided them along their paths. They spoke passionately about the responsibility they felt to mentor the next generation of female leaders.

This cycle of mentorship is crucial; it not only helps younger women navigate their careers but also reinforces the idea that leadership is a shared journey.

Women should actively seek out mentorship opportunities and, in turn, commit to mentoring others. This reciprocal relationship strengthens the community and fosters a culture of support.

The stories shared by the women at the festival were not devoid of challenges.

They spoke candidly about the obstacles they faced, from gender bias to work-life balance struggles. Yet, what stood out was their resilience. Each woman had faced adversity but had chosen to rise above it, using their experiences to fuel their determination. This resilience is a hallmark of effective leadership. Women leaders should embrace their challenges as opportunities for growth and inspire others to do the same. It is through overcoming difficulties that we develop strength and character.

An outstanding empowering moment at the festival was when women shared their achievements, both significant milestones and small victories. The atmosphere buzzed with energy as stories of triumph filled the air, each narrative adding to a collective sense of pride and accomplishment.

Celebrating these achievements is vital for building confidence and reinforcing the idea that every step forward, no matter how small, is worth acknowledging. When women leaders take the time to recognise their own successes and those of their peers, they create an environment that encourages others to do the same.

This practice not only cultivates a positive culture but also motivates everyone to strive for excellence, fostering a community where ambition and hard work are celebrated. Moreover, the women at the festival understood the importance of using their voices to address societal issues and push for progress.

Advocacy can take many forms, from speaking out on critical topics to actively participating in initiatives that promote gender equality and social justice. By sharing their experiences and insights, these leaders highlighted the need for systemic changes that benefit all women.

They demonstrated that leadership extends beyond individual success; it involves leveraging one's influence to advocate for broader societal change. By standing up for what is right, they can inspire others to join the fight for equity, creating a ripple effect that empowers more women to take action.

This commitment to advocacy not only strengthens their leadership but also builds a legacy of empowerment that can transform communities and inspire future generations.

Finally, the festival underscored the importance of continuous learning as a cornerstone of effective leadership. The women I encountered were anything but complacent; they exhibited a genuine eagerness to learn, adapt, and grow in their respective fields.

They actively participated in workshops, shared valuable knowledge, and embraced new ideas with open minds. This commitment to lifelong learning is essential, especially in a rapidly evolving world where staying informed and adaptable is crucial for success.

Women should seek out opportunities for professional development and encourage their peers to do the same, fostering a culture of growth and resilience within their communities. One particularly impactful moment was when Betty shared her insights about the role of a supportive  life partner in the leadership journey.

She emphasised that having someone who believes in you can be transformative, acting as a cheerleader and source of strength. This notion reinforces the idea that women can indeed transform the world with the backing of their loved ones.

A woman’s success in leadership does not diminish or emasculate a partner who is secure in themselves; rather, it creates a dynamic where both individuals can thrive. It is essential to recognise that women leading is not just about their individual journeys but also about creating a supportive ecosystem that allows everyone to flourish. Let women lead, and together, they can achieve remarkable things.

Reflecting on my experience at the Stanbic Jacaranda Music Festival, I am filled with gratitude for the lessons learned and the incredible women I had the privilege to meet. Their leadership styles, rooted in authenticity, collaboration, and resilience, serve as a blueprint for aspiring women leaders.

As we continue to navigate the complexities of leadership, it is essential to uplift one another, celebrate our achievements, and advocate for change. Women’s leadership is not just about holding positions of power; it is about creating a legacy of empowerment, mentorship, and growth.

As we move forward, let us remember the lessons from the festival and strive to embody the qualities that make us effective leaders.

Together, we can create a future where women not only lead but thrive, inspiring generations to come. Until then, we are blessed to be a blessing (#B2BAB). We were here, becoming better, making our mark, and leaving our footprint as we make the world a better place!

Chirenje writes in her personal capacity as a citizen of Zimbabwe. Twitter: @graceruvimbo; Facebook: Grace Chirenje; Instagram: @graceruvimbo