Online Reporter
Business Reporter
Global business network, She Means Business International, launched its Zimbabwe chapter at a highly attended event in Harare over the weekend.
Established in 2012 by Zimbabwean-born entrepreneur Mrs Michelle Chido Zuzeyo Chikanda, SMB is head-quartered in South Africa.
Speaking at the launch, Mrs Chikanda said the decision to open a chapter in Zimbabwe was inspired by the growth of the organisation’s membership of discerning female entrepreneurs in the country.
“Today is not just a launch, it’s a refreshed beginning. SMB previously had a presence in Zimbabwe and like any organisation committed to meaningful growth, we have gone through seasons of learning, restructuring and strengthening,” she said.
Ms Chikanda added that the launch marked a new chapter, one defined by renewed leadership, clearer systems and a fully aligned and officially appointed team ready to serve with excellence and integrity, in line with President Mnangagwa’s mantra of leaving no place and no one behind.
“This relaunch aligns strongly with the national aspirations outlined in National Development Strategy 2, which emphasises human capital and innovation, industrialisation, digital transformation and modern business ecosystems, among other initiatives,” Mrs Chikanda said.
She paid tribute to the Ministry of Women’s Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development for its continued efforts in advancing women’s empowerment, strengthening SMEs growth, promoting innovation and supporting inclusive economic development in line with Zimbabwe’s economic national vision.
The guest of honour, Mrs Florence Kanyati, urged women to work hard to sustain their families. Drawing lessons from some of her more than 30 books, Mrs Kanyati implored women to take charge of their lives, achieve their goals and succeed in their endeavours.
“One action is better than a million attempts. We cannot continue to wish for things without taking a deliberate decision to implement.
‘‘What SMB International is offering are opportunities for us to grow our businesses, achieve our dreams, and be successful in our lives,” she said.
SMB International is a global network offering business coaching, consulting, and other services to business owners in crisis and successful companies looking to scale fast.
It offers a range of training and networking opportunities, creating revenues through social clubs, partnership collaborations, and power visits to promote synergies and collaborations.
Some of the programmes offered at SMB International include business showers, solar power, boreholes, cars, and property purchasing clubs, as part of the many efforts by SMB International to empower women.
