WLSA Zimbabwe's Isheanesu Chirisa Named NGO Director of the Year

By Percy Nhara | Southerton Business Times

HARARE – Isheanesu Chirisa, Executive Director of Women and Law in Southern Africa (WLSA) Zimbabwe, has been named Director of the Year 2025 in the NGOs and Civil Society Organisations category by the Institute of Directors Zimbabwe (IoDZ).

The prestigious award recognises outstanding leadership, ethical governance and excellence in organisational management within Zimbabwe's non-governmental and civil society sector.

The Institute of Directors Zimbabwe honours leaders who demonstrate visionary leadership, accountability and strong corporate governance while driving meaningful impact in their respective organisations.

Reacting to the accolade, WLSA Zimbabwe said the recognition reflects Chirisa's commitment to advancing women's legal rights and promoting access to justice across the country.

"The award honours directors who lead with vision and govern with integrity. These are the very principles Isheanesu brings to WLSA Zimbabwe's work every day as we advance women's legal rights and access to justice," the organisation said.

WLSA Zimbabwe added that the achievement is shared by everyone who contributes to the organisation's mission.

"This achievement belongs to all of us our board, staff, partners, and the communities we serve."

Under Chirisa's leadership, WLSA Zimbabwe has continued to champion legal empowerment initiatives, advocate for gender equality and provide legal support to women and vulnerable communities through policy engagement, public education and strategic litigation.

The recognition comes at a time when civil society organisations are playing an increasingly important role in promoting access to justice, human rights and inclusive development in Zimbabwe. The Institute of Directors Zimbabwe annually recognises individuals and organisations that demonstrate excellence in leadership, corporate governance and ethical management across the public, private and non-profit sectors.

Isheanesu Chirisa Director of the Year