adminMolline Gagare Business Reporter
VIOLET Mhute, 45, is a multi-talented woman based in Bulawayo who has accomplished a lot in her professional and personal life.
She owns an accounting firm, Soko Public Accountants and is the executive director of Vee’s African Designs.Mhute is a registered public auditor, certified public accountant with a Bachelor of Commerce and Accounting Degree.
She is also a holder of a Masters Degree in Accounting from the Midlands State University (MSU).
Mhute sees herself as a unique woman.
She says her passion for business started from a tender age when she told herself that she will never be someone’s employee.
The mother of three started garment design work soon after completing her Advanced Level studies in 1988 at Northlea High School in Bulawayo.
“I wasn’t a typical girl child who wanted to work for someone else. I’ve had a passion for cutting and designing since I was in Form Two. I started operating from home with only two machines after high school,” she reminisced.
Mhute said her garment business grew gradually as she bought more machinery using proceeds from her small business.
“My inspiration is the late First Lady, Cde Sally Mugabe who was always dressed in beautiful African attire. Today, I’m the proud owner of Vee’s African Designs and I employ 10 people,” she said.
Mhute believes education is key for business success.
This explains why she enrolled for university where she studied accounting using money she made from selling clothes and securing other jobs in between such as temporary teaching.
“When I finished my first degree in 2007, I started my own accounting firm, Soko Public Accountants. We offer accounting and financial services, consultancy work, tax clearance, vat returns and many other services,” said Mhute.
She has grown to become a partner with Ralph Bomment, a correspondent firm based in England and Wales.
The firm does network public auditing.
“This year Soko Public Accountants has partnered with Ralph Bomment, an internationally acclaimed auditing firm. This essentially means that I can audit private firms, NGOs or any organisation in any country. I’m qualified to do that,” she said.
As part of a social responsibility programme, Mhute has formed an empowerment initiative for women and the youth, African Women and Youth Development Trust.
“As a businesswoman who has managed to make it despite all odds, I’ve come to realise that most women don’t know how to expand their businesses. If they can sew for example, they only sew occasionally at their homes.
“I help these women and youth realise their full potential. I also help them to impart their knowledge and skills to other people,” she said.
Mhute has also adopted a paediatric ward at Mpilo Central Hospital to assist vulnerable children.
“We supply beds, mattresses, sheets and toys for the children who are admitted at the hospital. It’s not much but it brings joy to children when they’ve a comfortable bed to sleep on and toys to play with,” said Mhute.
The multi-skilled entrepreneur is married.
She enjoys playing golf, advising people on business, travelling and doing research.
Her favourite food is rice with peanut butter and roasted chicken.
Online Reporter