Cyber security guru Mpho Chataika BCom (CS & IS) ‘07 from Botswana, took on many roles in a so called “man’s world” and reinvented herself constantly. She is the first Motswana to hold all three IT governance certificates recognised by the international professional association ISACA. Mpho mentioned that even though you might have a solution to a problem and good business models you can still experience obstacles.
Mpho’s advice to young professionals is simple, “Volunteer your services, constantly upgrade yourself via research, develop a strong social media strategy and find a mentor who will be able to guide you throughout the process.”
LLB ‘15 graduate and founding director of Burbill Refurbishers & Contractors and co-founder of WasteMate Zimbabwe Private Ltd, Vusa Chimanikire, is a driven serial entrepreneur. Passionate about the affordable housing industry as well as waste management, Vusa worked his way up the ladder from bicycle renting, junior lecturing in the law faculty and hosting events to founding his own construction and waste management companies. Vusa used his law degree to his advantage in the policy, legislative and contractual spaces in the business areas in which he operates.
Vusa believes the importance of being an entrepreneur lies in showing up for yourself day in and day out in all phases of your life.
“As an African we are called to carry that torch and shine a light on our continent through innovation, social entrepreneurship and ingenuity to build a better Africa and better tomorrow.”
Rising Star Award 2017 recipient Lukonga Lindunda, BSc (IT) ’06, is a start-up ecosystem builder, executive director and co-founder of BongoHive - an award-winning innovation and technology hub based in Lusaka, Zambia, changing the landscape of innovation and entrepreneurship in the region.
Over the past 10 years Lukhonga has gained experience running his own firm and now finds himself in an exciting phase advising much larger firms in innovation, entrepreneurship and technology.
As a student, being indecisive whether he would just focus on technology or information technology, computer science or “marrying” it with a business background.”
“One of the best decisions I have made was to marry the information technology with business which have opened doors for me to solve problems.”
Lukhonga worked in a number of non-profits before starting BongoHive which left him with the question of how to encourage upcoming entrepreneurs and innovators, where to find them and how to harness them and if they are solving problems that exist within the market.
“Through collaboration you can really go a long way in solving Africa’s problem and grow the opportunities that are available on the continent.”
Maria Shipapo, BSc Chemistry & Geology ‘14 & BSc Hons Geology ’15, is the CEO and co-founder of MIST Agricultural Laboratory (MISTAL), an agricultural lab based in Rundu, Namibia.
Maria’s professional journey started by identifying the need amongst the countries farmers and food producers to produce quality food being sold to consumers.
Mistal’s successes include a fully equipped soil department aimed at subsistence farmers, a functional research site and department, good local networks and value-added indigenous food products to be launched this year.
“The more steps you take the further you go, surround yourself with the right entrepreneurial circle and celebrate small victories. Her advice is to “start small, hire the right team and keep going.”
The webinar can be viewed here: http://youtu.be/q5sYlaeE74Q