Online Reporter
Lesley Chikudo, [email protected]
AT 44, Mrs Thina Sithole is a dynamic force, an entrepreneur, author and philanthropist who is dedicated to transforming lives, particularly among the youth.
Hailing from Plumtree, she has turned her passion for education and business into a series of impactful ventures that uplift her community.
From a young age, Mrs Sithole envisioned combining her love for learning with a drive for business.
“I’ve always believed in the power of education. It became the foundation that helped me find my purpose. My goal has always been to inspire others and contribute meaningfully to my community,” she said.
To fulfil this mission, she founded Rehoboth Books, a publishing company specialising in moral-based children’s storybooks. Her aim is to instil positive values in the younger generation through storytelling.
Beyond publishing, she established Rehoboth College, an educational institution, and Rehoboth Foods a business venture, further diversifying her entrepreneurial footprint.
Mrs Sithole also serves as the secretary general for the Global Association for Equalisation and Development in Bulawayo Province. She is a co-director of the Royal Aviation Children’s Club, an initiative that introduces underprivileged children to aviation, offering them insights into careers in the air travel industry.
As a mother of three and a businesswoman, balancing family life with professional responsibilities has been no easy feat.
“There were times I doubted myself and financial constraints, an unpredictable economic environment and breaking barriers in male-dominated industries were all challenges,” she said.
However, Mrs Sithole believes that perseverance is key.
“One of my biggest hurdles was securing funding for my ventures. As a woman entrepreneur, I faced stereotypes and gender-based barriers. Instead of allowing these obstacles to define me, I sought innovative solutions,” she explained.
She credits programmes like the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE), run by the US Embassy, and Next She Exporter by ZimTrade, for equipping her with crucial skills, valuable networks and business opportunities. Through these initiatives, she connected with like-minded female entrepreneurs and accessed resources that helped grow her businesses.
For Mrs Sithole, entrepreneurship is more than personal success. It’s about creating a lasting legacy that benefits others.
“Giving back to my community has always been central to my mission. Being in a position to uplift others is the greatest reward for me,” she said.
As a founding trustee of the Doing Good Projects Trust, she supports various charitable initiatives, particularly those focused on disadvantaged children and families. The Trust promotes education, empowerment and equality, ensuring that women and girls have equal access to opportunities and resources.
