Vimbai Masiyiwa

Published 8 July, 2024 by The Trailblazers Africa

“Entrepreneurship is in my blood” Vimbai Masiyiwa reflects on her deep-rooted entrepreneurial spirit, shaped by witnessing her parents' relentless efforts in building their businesses. As the daughter of prominent African figures, Strive and Tsitsi Masiyiwa, she was aware of the high expectations placed upon her to achieve success. However, a cancer diagnosis during a crucial time in her education forced her to reassess her life and career goals, prompting her to focus on what truly mattered to her.

Vimbai Masiyiwa earned her Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems from Bryant University and later pursued a Master's degree in Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies at University College London. She currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Batoka Hospitality Group. Under her leadership, in March 2021, Batoka acquired Gorges Lodge, Little Gorges, and Zambezi Sands from Imvelo Safari Lodges, all of which are situated in Victoria Falls.

In March 2022, the Batoka Hospitality Group introduced the newly-refurbished Batoka Zambezi Sands River Lodge, situated along the scenic banks of the Zambezi River. Back in 2019, Vimbai Masiyiwa envisioned transforming Batoka into a thriving social enterprise within the tourism sector, with a focus on developing new property components, a vision she led from the front. To bring this vision to life, Masiyiwa needed a $4 million capital investment to construct the property. Although she could utilize existing staff and resources, a major part of the project involved significant fundraising efforts. From 2019 to 2021, this stood as one of her most formidable challenges.

"I believe in creating agile teams that are capable of achieving success, regardless of the challenges they face. Collaborating with my amazing team on the ground, along with partners across the continent—most of whom are women—allowed us to come together and persevere through the toughest times," shares the young entrepreneur from Zimbabwe.

References

1. Under 30: Zimbabwean Entrepreneur Vimbai Masiyiwa On Learning From Her Famous Parents, Forbes Africa, Published 3 months ago, 2024

2. ↑ Vimbai M., LinkedIn, Published: No Date Given, Retrieved: December 11, 2021

3. ↑ Lwazi Muleya, New ownership for Victoria Falls lodges, Tourism Update, Published: March 8, 2021, Retrieved: December 11, 2021

4. ↑ Strive Masiyiwa’s daughter opens luxury Victoria Falls lodge, Vic Falls Live, Published: December 9, 2021, Retrieved: December 11, 2021