Zimbabwean entrepreneur Chad Chawanda appointed to top Middle East advisory board

Michael Magoronga, [email protected]

Dubai-based Zimbabwean entrepreneur, Mr Chad Chawanda, has been appointed to the advisory board of Enlightened Minds, making him the first African to join this prestigious group.

Enlightened Minds is an international organisation dedicated to assisting businesses with growth strategies, focusing on expanding companies into the Middle East. The organisation helps businesses secure shares based on proven models and Go-to-Market strategies. Its advisory board includes prominent AI investors and advisors who work with top businesses and royal families across the Middle East.

Mr Chawanda, known for his work as a Business Golfer, is the first Zimbabwean to be named to the 22-member advisory board of Enlightened Minds. The board is made up of influential entrepreneurs, many of whom hail from the Middle East.

Timur Kudratov, the founder of Enlightened Minds, praised Mr Chawanda for his unique contributions, particularly in bridging the gap between African and Middle Eastern entrepreneurs.

“Many in the Middle East are eager to invest in Africa but struggle to find trusted partners. Chad bridges that gap, connecting Africa’s opportunities with investors from the Middle East,” Kudratov said.

Kudratov shared how he first collaborated with Chawanda after the latter joined a social media campaign where participants walked 10kms daily for a year. Impressed by Chawanda’s commitment, Kudratov invited him to events at the Capital Club in Dubai and the Diplomatic Business Club, where Chawanda’s passion for Africa stood out.

As a passionate business golfer, Mr Chawanda sees this appointment as a key opportunity to connect African entrepreneurs with their Middle Eastern counterparts.

“Zimbabwe is one of the top golfing countries in Africa, and this has helped me develop the concept that led to today’s achievement. This is a real opportunity for African businesspeople, entrepreneurs, and diplomats to meet with those from the Middle East, play golf, and discuss business,” he said.

Chawanda made a name for himself during the Covid-19 era when he launched an online platform connecting African businesspeople and promoting intra-Africa trade. He has also worked to promote Zimbabwe’s tourism and showcase the country’s potential to global audiences, all while encouraging collaboration and growth across the continent.