The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom (FNF), a German non-profit organization, recently partake in an inspiring mentorship program aimed at nurturing young female journalists.

The program, which hosted 30 participants from the 31th of May up to the 2nd of June 2024, took place over three transformative days at Cresta Lodge in Harare, Zimbabwe.

The mentorship program kicked off with an inspiring session led by Daily News Deputy Managing editor Ms Anne Mpalume, one of Zimbabwe’s first female photojournalists.

Her words emphasized self-belief, goal attainment, and the power of mentorship.

Unlike traditional educational initiatives, this program aimed to build confidence, resilience, and ambition among the participants.

Throughout the three days, the young female journalists engaged in workshops, discussions, and networking opportunities. They also learnt surviving skills, received guidance, and formed lasting connections.

Other topics which were covered includes Surviving the newsroom which was led by Sunday Mail editor Mrs Victoria Ruzvidzo’s, Human rights by Rufaro Deshe and Broadcasting Multimedia Journalism by Martha Mamombe from ZiFM Radio.

There were several important topics which were covered by Ms Anne Mpalume, Zimbabwe lndependent editor Ms Faith Zaba, Grace Chirenje, and Darlington Muyambwa which were very rich on information and worth listening to.

The mentorship program encouraged female journalist to dream big, equipping them with the mindset needed to turn those dreams into reality and investing in the next generation as goes by the running theme: “NxtGenJouno.”

As the mentorship program continues to unfold, it is expected to leave a lasting impact on the young female journalists involved, empowering them to overcome challenges, seize opportunities, and strive for excellence in all aspects of their lives.