Ken Sharpe recognises young businessman

Sunday Mail Reporter

“I’M inspired to inspire others”.

These words are attributed to retired Mexican American mixed martial artist and former politician Jacob Christopher “Tito” Ortiz.

But they aptly described what took place on December 1, 2023 at the Zimbabwe Institute of Management (ZIM) National Leadership and Management Excellence Awards in Harare, when businessman and property mogul Ken Sharpe scooped the Businessman of the Year accolade, and handed it over to Mr Lincoln Masiyenyama.

Mr Sharpe is the CEO and chairperson of the board at West Property Zimbabwe.

Mr Masiyenyama is the founder and chief executive officer of Nakiso Borehole Drilling.

On the night, Mr Masiyenyama had just received his own accolade, taking up the second runner-up position for the Young Leader of the Year award.

Speaking to The Sunday Mail, Mr Masiyenyama said he was surprised when Mr Sharpe, in his acceptance speech, said he had been inspired by his enterprise.

“During the event, Mr Sharpe mentioned that Lincoln Masiyenyama had greatly impacted him, highlighting the potential of young entrepreneurs like myself to drive the country forward,” he said.

“He commended my journey and the contribution I have been making to the economy, dedicating his award to me as a gesture of encouragement.”

Having grown up in challenging circumstances, he bootstrapped his way to establishing a successful business.

Nakiso Drilling has been involved in several social impact projects, including the phase of the national housing project that targeted construction of 200 000 low-cost houses and flats by the end of 2023.

In that phase, Nakiso was running a borehole drilling scheme in Dzivarasekwa.

Added Mr Masiyenyama: “He suggested that I display the award in my office to inspire me to achieve the same recognition one day.

“It is heartening to be recognised by a successful individual in the country, especially considering my tough upbringing and the negative labels I have had to endure.”