23/04/2026
🥳🥳🥳✍️✍️
It’s Dr Mizinga Melu!
Today, I am deeply honoured to have been conferred an Honorary Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Leadership and Management by Copperbelt University.
As cited by the University, this recognition reflects a journey of leadership, strategic vision, and contribution to Zambia’s financial services sector, including the breaking of the glass ceiling in corporate leadership.
From becoming the first female and first Black Managing Director at Standard Chartered Bank Zambia, to leading Absa Bank Zambia and working across multiple African markets, this journey has been about redefining what is possible.
The glass ceiling represents barriers that have historically limited access to leadership. Breaking it means challenging systems, leading on merit, and creating pathways for others to rise.
So yes… today, it is Dr Mizinga Melu.
But beyond the title, I am reminded that leadership is a responsibility.
Leadership is not about position, but about service, integrity, courage, and lifting others.
To the young women: aspire boldly. There is no leadership table at which you do not belong if you are prepared to serve with excellence.
I would also like to acknowledge and congratulate my fellow graduates:
Dr Mukwandi Chibesakunda
Dr Irene Muyenga
Professor Dr Pinalo Chifwanakeni
We rise, and we rise by lifting others.
My sincere appreciation to Copperbelt University for this distinguished recognition.