From 3 to 6 September 2025, the global stage at the 10th Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) in Vladivostok resonated with a powerful Zimbabwean voice, as Councillor Simphiwe Vuyelwa Mguni showcased the nation’s emerging leadership on critical international issues including youth innovation and sustainable development.
Her participation underscores a significant stride for African women in diplomacy and aligns with the engagement policies championed by President Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, which seek to integrate Zimbabwean talents into high-level global discourse.
Cllr Mguni’s invitation to the prestigious event came on the heels of her remarkable achievement as First Runner-Up at the 2024 BRICS+ Youth Innovation Summit in Pretoria, South Africa.
This recognition paved the way for her selection into the Forum’s New Generation Programme—a presidential initiative of the Russian Federation under President Vladimir Putin.
She was one of only thirty young leaders chosen worldwide from thousands of applicants, reflecting her exceptional vision and leadership potential.
During the Forum, Cllr Mguni contributed to a series of high-level dialogues. She attended the Russia–Laos Business Dialogue, engaged in sessions centred on the United Nations Development Agenda 2030, and observed a landmark plenary session chaired by President Putin alongside the Prime Ministers of Mongolia and Laos.
A notable highlight was her involvement in the session titled “Youth and Marketplaces 2030: Technologies, Entrepreneurship, and Regions in the New Reality,” which explored the transformative potential of e-commerce, artificial intelligence, and youth-led entrepreneurship.
“Participating in such a forward-thinking dialogue was not only an honour but a critical opportunity to ensure that African and women’s perspectives are embedded in the global conversation on our digital future. It reaffirms that our voices are essential in shaping inclusive and innovative economic policies,” Cllr Mguni remarked.
Back home, Cllr Mguni’s portfolio is equally impactful. She serves as the Head of Communication and PR for Arise Women of Africa, National Head of Information and Publicity for Citizens Against Economic Sanctions (CAES) Zimbabwe, and is the founder of the Matabeleland South Information Desk.
Her participation in the EEF was widely celebrated by colleagues and supporters as a testament to her dedication and the effectiveness of Zimbabwe’s international outreach strategies.
A representative from Arise Women of Africa stated, “Cllr Mguni’s journey is far more than an individual accomplishment; it is a powerful statement that Zimbabwean women are ready to lead on the world stage. Her presence in Vladivostok inspires a new generation of young women to pursue roles in international cooperation, technology, and public service.”
As she returns to Zimbabwe, Cllr Mguni brings with her invaluable insights into innovative developmental strategies and youth empowerment models. Her experience is expected to enrich her ongoing work in advocacy and community development, further bridging local initiatives with global opportunities.
Her participation signals a growing recognition of Zimbabwe’s potential to contribute meaningfully to international economic and innovation agendas, proving that with the right platforms, its leaders—especially women—can and do excel.
