Roseline Mutare
To empower young women and promote community development, Lupane State University (LSU) recently held a dynamic leadership development workshop at the Resource Center in Hwange.
Innocent Mwapangira, a lecturer in the Department of Languages, Media, and Communication Studies at LSU, facilitated the workshop, which used applied theatre techniques to foster leadership skills and confidence among participants.
Speaking on the initiative, Mwapangira highlighted the importance of empowering young women
“We believe that empowering young women is crucial for community development. Through this workshop, we aimed to equip participants with the skills and confidence needed to assume leadership roles within their communities,” said Mwapangira.
The workshop, which was held in partnership with Shangano Arts Trust, focused on introducing fundamental leadership principles, enhancing participants’ confidence, public speaking, and teamwork abilities, and promoting collaborative problem-solving approaches. Participants engaged in interactive theatre techniques such as role-playing, improvisation, and group performances to explore leadership scenarios.
“We are thrilled to see the impact that this workshop has had on the participants. They have developed personal or group leadership initiatives using theatre for community engagement, and we are confident that they will go on to drive positive change in their communities,” added Mwapangira.
The workshop is part of LSU’s ongoing community outreach efforts aimed at empowering girls and young women in Matabeleland North.
The university’s Vice Chancellor Pardon Kuipa has expressed strong support for such initiatives and partnerships that align with the university’s mandate and mantra, “Empowering Communities Through Knowledge.”
