A growing number of young Zimbabweans are embracing entrepreneurship as a path to self-reliance and empowerment, inspired by initiatives such as the Entrepreneurs Executive Business Seminar held in Harare under the theme “Sailing Your Business to Greater Heights Using Growth Engines.”
The seminar, organised by Legacy Builders Global Hub, brought together aspiring and established entrepreneurs for a day of practical training, mentorship, and networking.
The event’s main highlight was a powerful presentation by the organization’s president, Bishop Dr. Aderino Nyabanga — a seasoned Business and Financial Coach — who urged the youth to take charge of their futures through enterprise rather than waiting for elusive formal employment.
“I am elated by the number of youths and women who are attending our business seminars,” said Bishop Nyabanga. “We especially welcome the youth and give them a big handshake because they are facing a lot of challenges, especially drug and substance abuse. It’s because most are idle, thinking that after school the next step is employment. We are here to teach them to be their own boss and employer.”
Bishop Nyabanga said the Legacy Builders Global Hub was established to transform mindsets and equip citizens with practical business ideas that utilise locally available resources.
“Starting a business is not about having money,” he said. “It’s about having big, unique ideas that can propel you forward. We are here to give direction to those already in business so they can stay afloat, and to inspire others to start small but think big.”
He added that empowering women was also a major focus of the seminars. “Domestic violence often begins because many women depend entirely on their husbands for income,” he said. “We want to help them start ventures so that they can contribute meaningfully at home, instead of fighting for a dollar to buy tomatoes.”
The Legacy Builders Global Hub has in recent months rolled out similar business empowerment workshops across the country, from Bulawayo to Mutare, in partnership with organisations such as Old Mutual, Empower Bank, EcoCash, and Botle Buhle Brands.
These initiatives have become a cornerstone in promoting financial literacy, self-reliance, and community-based entrepreneurship — a vision that aligns with President Mnangagwa’s national development mantra that “nyika inovakwa nevene vayo” (a country is built by its own people).
On the sidelines of the seminar, several young entrepreneurs shared how the training would reshape their outlook on business and personal growth.
Obriel Mudede (23) from Goromonzi said the workshop would be a turning point in his entrepreneurial journey.
“I came here eager to learn skills that will help me grow my business in graphic design and digital marketing. The knowledge I gain here will not only benefit me but also the youth in my village. I want to go back home and empower others,” he said.
For Blessing Mhliwa (24) from Granary, the seminar provides a valuable opportunity to modernise his trade.
“I am in the business of selling shoes and accessories. I want to learn how to conduct business in this modern day and age. As youth, we are here to learn from our elders and mentors so that we move in the right direction,” he said.
Charmaine Siziba (29) from Norton, who trades in traditional foods, said such platforms were essential for young women in business.
“This seminar gives us a chance to connect and learn from others with more experience. As a young woman, I encourage others to attend such events because they open doors to growth and exposure,” she said.
Bishop Nyabanga reiterated his belief that entrepreneurship is the cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s transformation, particularly for the youth who make up the bulk of the population.
“Empowering the youth to think business, act business, and live business is the greatest investment any nation can make,” he said. “We are raising a generation that no longer waits for opportunities, but creates them.”
New Ziana
