The recent Red Lipstick Picnic, hosted by the Womandla Foundation on 13 February, was more than a lifestyle gathering. 

It was a bold and timely celebration of womanhood, self-love and the enduring power of sisterhood, reflecting a growing global shift towards women-centred spaces that prioritise connection over competition.

The event coincided with Galentine’s Day, a celebration of female friendship that has steadily gained traction worldwide. Once a niche concept, Galentine’s-themed events have evolved into a cultural movement, with women increasingly choosing to honour platonic love, shared experiences and community-building. 

In Zimbabwe and across the continent, such gatherings are becoming important counter-spaces where women can be affirmed, seen and supported outside traditional romantic narratives.

Against this backdrop, the Red Lipstick Picnic created a safe, intentional space for women to gather, reflect and celebrate one another. Through art, conversation, music and dance, attendees were encouraged to show up as their authentic selves and embrace their individual journeys. 

The simplicity of the concept allowed for deep connection, reminding participants that empowerment often begins with being heard and held by others.

There was a spirit of generosity woven throughout the day, echoing the familiar “you get a present, I get a present” culture popularised by Oprah Winfrey. Gifts, affirmations and acts of kindness were exchanged freely, reinforcing a sense of abundance and mutual upliftment rather than rivalry.

Executive Director of the Womandla Foundation, Tadiwa Burukai Matutu, said the picnic was designed as a space of healing and empowerment.

“The Red Lipstick Picnic is about reclaiming joy and reminding women that they do not have to navigate life alone,” Matutu said. “When women gather in safe, affirming spaces, they heal, they grow and they begin to see their power reflected in one another. Sisterhood is not just emotional support — it is a form of resistance and strength.”

She noted that initiatives such as the picnic are part of the foundation’s broader mission to build sustainable, women-led communities rooted in dignity, self-worth and collective care.

The event was supported by AmplifyChange, whose backing enabled the foundation to create inclusive platforms that centre women’s voices, wellbeing and leadership.

Beyond the aesthetics and celebration, the Red Lipstick Picnic underscored a powerful truth: empowerment is not a solo journey, but a collective process. The laughter, tears and moments of vulnerability shared throughout the day spoke to the resilience of women who choose solidarity in a world that often encourages division.

As Galentine’s events continue to rise in popularity, they are redefining how women celebrate love — shifting the focus towards friendship, self-affirmation and community. The Red Lipstick Picnic stands as a local reflection of this global movement, proving that when women intentionally come together, they create spaces where healing, growth and joy can flourish.

As the lifestyle community reflects on the impact of the event, the message is clear: empowerment is a choice — a choice to uplift others, honour shared experiences and build communities rooted in sisterhood. 

Through initiatives like the Red Lipstick Picnic, the Womandla Foundation is helping to shape a future where women thrive together, not in isolation.