Business Reporter
Renowned Zimbabwean businesswoman and philanthropist, Joanna Sharpe, recently hosted an inspiring event, bringing together more than 400 women entrepreneurs for the Women Empowerment Funding and Investment Conference 2026.
The conference, which aimed to empower women in business, left a significant impact on attendees, emphasizing the importance of growth, financial independence, and entrepreneurial education.
The event attracted participants from various sectors of the economy, with key organizations such as the COMESA Federation of Women in Business (COMFWB), EWE, and SACCO Credit Union playing pivotal roles in providing valuable business insights.
The conference focused on important topics such as affordable funding opportunities, grassroots financing, real estate investment, financial independence, and the importance of formalizing business operations. Entrepreneurs were also encouraged to explore export markets and improve their business acumen through basic training.
In an interview on the sidelines of the conference, Sharpe expressed her dedication to lifting women out of poverty as a means of empowering entire communities. Drawing inspiration from the lessons instilled in her by her mother, she stressed the importance of serving others and giving back.
“My mother always taught me that for everything I receive, there’s someone who needs assistance. Life is like a wheel, constantly turning, so it’s crucial to help others, especially when you are in a position to do so,” Sharpe explained.
Sharpe also highlighted her ongoing involvement in various programs aimed at empowering women, emphasizing her commitment to ensuring women have access to the support they need to succeed.
Dr. Edna Mukurazhizha, a prominent business leader and financial inclusion advocate who chairs the COMESA Federation of Women in Business (Zimbabwe Chapter), expressed her gratitude to Sharpe for her support. Mukurazhizha credited Sharpe for making the event possible, noting that it was planned in just two weeks.
“Mrs. Sharpe is a true believer in the power of women. She covered all the expenses for this event, and today we have over 400 women in attendance. I am deeply grateful for her generosity and her dedication to the women of Zimbabwe,” Mukurazhizha said.
Through her financial contributions, the Sharpe family is supporting the organization’s work by providing funds for onward lending. The interest generated from these loans is donated back to the organization to continue supporting women entrepreneurs.
Mukurazhizha shared that, with Sharpe’s support, her organization has been able to empower widows, single mothers, and women from rural areas—groups who often face barriers when attempting to secure loans from traditional banks.
Drawing from her 25 years of experience in the banking sector, Mukurazhizha pointed out the challenges women face, even those with collateral like title deeds. “It’s tough for women to get loans, and often, they don’t have access to the support they need,” she explained.
The partnership with the Sharpe family has made a significant difference, especially in empowering women to start their own businesses.
Mukurazhizha emphasized the importance of compliance in business.
“When women start businesses, it’s essential they register their businesses and follow legal procedures. They need to define their vision, understand what their projects are about, and know where they want to be in five years,” she added.
The conference marked a pivotal moment in the ongoing effort to empower women in Zimbabwe and beyond, with Sharpe’s unwavering support continuing to make a tangible difference in the lives of many.
