Over the last three years, Mafu has managed to groom and empower more than 50 youths through Mafu Technologies, an IT company focusing on Refrigeration and Plastic Technology.
“I believe self-sustaining programmes can help reduce the ever fluctuating numbers of unemployment,” said Mafu. “I have undergone a lot of networking, workshops, and mentorship programmes. I have been running my company since 2009 and I am happy with what I have achieved.
“I work with various leading regional and international organisations to empower high-impact entrepreneurs and help build sustainable refrigeration entities. I have assisted more than 50 youths to earn a living from self-employment. I have been involved in these initiatives for some time and I fund the projects out of my own pocket. If I can do it, anyone can.”
Mafu believes that mentoring is one of the most important forms of support for aspiring entrepreneurs.
“Money and talent are vital,” he told The Zimbabwean. “But entrepreneurs need people who can advise them on the complexities of starting a business and walk alongside them as they grow.”
He is already hoping to return to Zimbabwe to help underprivileged youths from his home area. Developing a technical college, said Mafu, will create a smarter business base, raise companies’ efficiency, and improve the chances of success for emerging, dynamic technology businesses.
“Start-ups are the seeds of innovation that not only create jobs but also create wealth and help improve the global standard of living. I am buying equipment to set-up this project in Gwanda. I am very aware that there is wasted talent there. I will be appealing to the government to grant me a licence to set-up a college which will only focus on refrigeration programmes,” he said.
‘If I can do it, anyone can’
A true pioneer in the promotion of entrepreneurship and cross-border partnerships, Mafu is a powerful role model, a committed educator and an inspirational mentor.
Post published in: Business