Florence Nyamazana, known as The Lioness – Shumbakadzi, has been awarded the Arterial Network Zimbabwe Zimbabwean Woman Musician Mobility Grant. This grant will enable her to participate in the “I Can, Beyond the Mic” African Women in Music Conference, organized by the 54 African Mamas, scheduled for March 25-26, 2025, in Zambia.
The conference is a vital platform advocating for the rights of African women in the music industry, with over 50 participants from more than 15 countries expected to attend. Shumbakadzi, a celebrated traditional musician and mbira virtuoso, serves as the Deputy President of the Chivavarira National Mbira Music, Art & Culture Association, championing the rights of mbira players across Zimbabwe.
In accepting the grant Shumbakadzi said, “I am excited about the opportunity to connect with other talented women across Africa, share our stories and struggles and uplift each other while championing our collective progress. This conference will equip me with the tools and knowledge to advocate more effectively for the rights of women in music. My goal is to inspire young female musicians in my community to embrace their artistry and pursue their dreams fearlessly. Insights from this conference will enrich my community and band.”
Shumbakadzi’s trip is funded by the continental network of cultural promoters and cultural advocates, Arterial Network which launched an open call to identify a representative to attend in early March. The finalist secured herself all travel, accommodation needs for the “I Can, Beyond the Mic” African Women in Music Conference.
Arterial Network Zimbabwe National Coordinator, Florence Mukanga-Majachani said;
Arterial Network Zimbabwe emphasizes the importance of empowering women in the arts through this mobility grant, which is part of its African Women in Cultural Leadership programme, launched in 2018 to enhance skills and networking opportunities for women creatives across the continent.
