Few leaders exemplify compassion, purpose-driven action, and transformative community impact as profoundly as Amb. Dr Iris Zemza Nozizwe Mhlanga. A distinguished Zimbabwean humanitarian, social entrepreneur, global influencer, and Founder and Executive Director of the Nozizwe Mother Of Nations Trust, she has dedicated her life to uplifting vulnerable communities through sustainable and deeply human-centered initiatives. Her nomination for Humanitarian of the Year at the Influencer Magazine Awards 2026 recognises her extraordinary commitment to restoring dignity, empowering lives, and driving meaningful change across communities.
Since establishing the Nozizwe Mother Of Nations Trust in 2018, Amb. Dr Iris has led impactful programmes that address critical needs in food security, education, healthcare, and community development. Through her visionary leadership, she has positively impacted over 5,000 beneficiaries, supported more than 1,000 scholars, collaborated with like minded faith based organisations to establish six community soup kitchens, and continues to care for over 100 elderly individuals. Her initiatives include feeding programmes for more than 500 homeless individuals, construction of classroom blocks, provision of solar power to schools and vulnerable households, and building homes for disadvantaged families, each effort reflecting her commitment to both immediate relief and long-term empowerment.
What sets her work apart is its sustainability and depth. Beyond addressing urgent needs, Amb. Dr Iris integrates forward-thinking solutions such as bi-monthly medical outreaches and livelihood projects including poultry and goat farming. These initiatives are designed not only to support communities in the present but to equip them with the tools and resources needed to thrive independently in the future. Her model of humanitarian work goes beyond charity, focusing on resilience, self-sufficiency, and lasting transformation.
In addition to her grassroots efforts, Amb. Dr Iris is a respected global advocate and thought leader. Serving as a Peace Ambassador and Regional Director within international ambassadorial organisations, she champions women’s empowerment, dignity, and social justice on a global scale. Her voice has contributed to important conversations across continents, bridging local community realities with international platforms and inspiring collaborative solutions to global challenges. Her exceptional impact has been recognised through numerous prestigious international awards, including the She Inspires Global SHERO Award (2025), Women Icon of the Year (2025), Global Woman Influencer Recognition (2026), and Woman of the Year Award (2025). She has also been named among 30 Africa’s Leading Women (2025), recognised in the Women Changing the World Awards (2025/2026), and honored as one of Africa’s 100 Iconic Personalities (2026). Her role as a judge and ambassador for the Women Changing The World Global Awards further highlights her influence in shaping the future of leadership and empowerment.
Beyond her humanitarian and advocacy work, Amb. Dr Iris is an accomplished author and Public Speaker, using her platform to amplify the voices of underserved communities and inspire collective action. Her journey, from grassroots service in local communities to international recognition, reflects a leadership philosophy grounded in humility, authenticity, and an unwavering belief that service is the highest form of leadership. Despite her global recognition, she remains deeply connected to the people she serves, often personally present in outreach programmes, feeding the homeless, supporting the elderly, and engaging directly with communities. Her leadership is not only visionary but deeply personal, driven by compassion and a genuine desire to uplift others.
With her remarkable dedication, innovative approach to sustainable development, and unwavering commitment to humanity, Amb. Dr Iris Nozizwe Mhlanga stands as a beacon of hope and transformation. Her nomination for Humanitarian of the Year at IMA 2026 honours not only her extensive achievements, but her ongoing mission to empower communities, inspire change, and create a more equitable and compassionate world.
