“ She is a gifted, self-assured speaker and I was so impressed with her, I sought her out, and asked her to apply to work at CNN. Zanele is incredibly determined and has a clear vision for herself. ”
ABOUT OUR FOUNDER
Zanele Mutepfa-Rhone is Zimbabwean-born culture and diversity strategist, speaker, activist and philanthropist. Inspired by a lineage of Zimbabwean women leaders in her family, Zanele is the founder of Here to Stay - a women’s speaker series celebrating the stories of change-making women in the world.
From working for Anderson Cooper at CNN to building her own diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging consulting collective, Zanele is a recognized thought-leader in her field. Her dynamic and community- driven spirit has been recognized by the Portland Business Journal, which named her one of the "Most Influential Women in Oregon." Over the years, she has contributed to noteworthy initiatives and brand strategies at global organizations, including adidas, Snapchat, and Sesame Workshop's Sesame Street.
Recently, Zanele has been providing diversity training, speaking engagements and strategic advising on inclusion and belonging, for organizations including but limited to BUCK Design, PeaceHealth, Travel Portland, AREA 17, and AFAR Magazine. During cultural heritage months, she also facilitates speaker series with experts to encourage thoughtful dialogue and learning.
Zanele and her collective have made contributions to global brand campaigns, such as Nike's Until We All Win campaign, featuring Serena Williams and LeBron James. As an executive producer, she has also created short film interview series, featuring thought leaders, including former Daily Show Host, Trevor Noah.
Zanele sits on several boards, including Bradley Angle—an organization offering survivors of domestic violence options, support for safety, healing, and hope—and also serves on the Inclusion Board for the global creative hospitality group Soho House.
Currently based in Portland, Oregon, Zanele spends her time developing innovative concepts for her consulting projects, traveling the world to learn about new cultures, providing opportunities for underrepresented talent, and building community.
EXPERIENCE + COLLABORATIONS
BOOK ZANELE
Zanele is currently available for speaking engagements and new client partnerships. If you’d like to work with her, please fill out the form below and we’ll get back to you within 3-5 business days.
