In our ongoing commitment to support women entrepreneurs through the S(HE) Matters project, this year we highlight the journeys of two remarkable women whose lives were transformed by the Women’s Business Bootcamp and Skill Fare Training held in earlier this year. The training was conducted by project partner Institute for Young Women’s Development.

The bootcamp offered (young) women comprehensive training in financial literacy, business management skills, and leadership development, empowering them to take on key roles in the business world.

From aspiration to action: Rumbidzai’s journey                                  

Rumbidzai Chizarura’s entrepreneurial journey took off when she recognized her unique strengths. A natural goal-setter, she often found herself developing ideas that showed she had the potential for consultancy. Armed by new skills from the bootcamp, and already having a background in journalism, Master of Ceremonies work, and digital content creation, she decided to take the leap and pursue her entrepreneurial dream.

Rumbidzai worked in various sectors as an apprentice, picking up further skills and preparing for the future. “In my apprentice journey, I did photography at events hosted by Dr. Divine Ndhlukula [the celebrated CEO of Zimbabwean security company SECURICO], such as the Harare Agricultural Show and the Women Owned Business Trust, in partnership with UN WOMEN,” Rumbidzai says. Now, she runs a social media management company, with clients including a reputable fuel supply company and a national bakery.

Start with what you’ve got

Drawing from her past experiences, Rumbidzai emphasizes the importance of starting with available resources. She encourages women to pursue their talents fearlessly and treat their businesses like innovative ideas rather than mere transactions. Rumbidzai’s advice is: “I encourage women to start with whatever resources they have at hand. If capital is needed, consider sacrificing what you don’t actively use; if it’s about talent, don’t hesitate — pursue it.”

Rumbidzai’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the belief that every woman can carve her own path in the business world.

From informal farming to successful entrepreneur 

Catherine Mahachi had been farming informally, lacking the business acumen needed to earn a living from it. But the bootcamp showed her the importance of professionalism in business and offered her essential skills that would change the course of her career. “The bootcamp taught me the importance of registering my business, identifying the right market for my produce, and maintaining proper records. I also learned how to analyze my profits and losses, a crucial skill for any entrepreneur. But more than that, the training gave me the confidence to pursue my dreams, dispelling the notion that business is a man’s domain,” she says.

Catherine believes in the power of community and shared knowledge: “I encourage all women in business to seek professional guidance and connect with women who have successfully navigated the entrepreneurial landscape. Because mentorship and networking can provide crucial support and insight, especially in the early stages of business development.”

Recognition of service

Catherine’s hard work and determination have earned her recognition, including being nominated for the She Leads Business Awards, where she shared her story at an event attended by several women in Harare, Zimbabwe. She has also been asked to share her career journey with young students, inspiring the next generation of women entrepreneurs.

Today, Catherine is committed to empowering other women in Mashonaland Central to explore farming as a business opportunity. She is also passionate about exchanging success stories and gathering new insights to contribute to community development, and loves collaborating with more women, sharing her experiences, and inspiring others to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.

Empowering the next generation of women entrepreneurs

As we celebrate Women Entrepreneurship Day, the stories of Rumbidzai and Catherine can serve as inspiration for women around the globe. Their journeys underscore the power of education, mentorship, and unwavering belief in oneself. By equipping women with the skills and confidence to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams, we are not only empowering individuals, but also fostering economic growth and social change that benefit everyone.