Online Reporter
Amos Mpofu [email protected]
A 20-year-old Bulawayo-based entrepreneur, Ms Phumzile Praise Ntonisani has received two prestigious business awards in recognition of her achievements in agribusiness.
Ms Ntonisani is the chief executive officer of Visionary Innovation for Sustainability in Technology and Agriculture and founder of Cowgirl Naturals.
On May 30, she was honoured with the Rising Star in Agribusiness Award at the Agribusiness Excellence Awards 2026, organised by the Global Agribusiness Professionals Institute in Harare. The following day, she received another accolade after being named Best in Agribusiness at the Bulawayo Business Awards (BBA).
The back-to-back awards underscore her growing influence and success in the agribusiness sector.
Speaking in an interview with Zimpapers, Ms Ntonisani said winning the two awards was both emotional and humbling.
“I am overwhelmed with gratitude, joy, and excitement. As the founder of Cowgirl Naturals, this achievement is not only about me, but about every young person, every woman, and every dreamer who believes that it is possible to start small and still achieve greatness. These awards represent the sleepless nights, the sacrifices, the challenges, and the passion behind my journey,” she said.
She said the recognition was the result of remaining committed to her vision despite numerous challenges.
Ms Ntonisani said many young Zimbabweans mistakenly believe success can only be achieved abroad, insisting that opportunities for growth and prosperity exist within the country.
Recalling a time when she was determined to leave Zimbabwe in search of greener pastures, she said she was grateful that her plans did not materialise.
“I remember there was a time in my journey when I was obsessed about going overseas. I don’t know who lied to most youths that greener pastures are overseas. I was so obsessed that I did a course on Nurse Aid and studied the German language because I wanted to leave Zimbabwe, thinking things were better there.
“But it wasn’t part of God’s plan. God said you will prosper here. You will make money here. My advice to youths is let’s do things which are part of God’s plan and let’s try to find our opportunities and live our purposes within our motherland. Let peer pressure not affect you,” she said.
