Born in Zimbabwe, Vimbai Masiyiwa's journey into the world of hospitality and entrepreneurship is a tale of passion, innovation, and unwavering commitment to community upliftment. Vimbai holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Information Systems from Bryant University, where she graduated in 2017. Following her undergraduate studies, she pursued a Master's degree in Entrepreneurship from University College London (UCL), completing her studies in 2021.
Professional Journey
Vimbai's professional journey began with the co-founding of Sterling Culture in May 2017, a venture that operated until March 2019. This experience provided her with invaluable insights into the intricacies of entrepreneurship and laid the foundation for her future endeavors.
In January 2019, Vimbai took on the role of Chief Executive Officer at Batoka Hospitality Group, a position she has held for over five years. Under her leadership, Batoka Hospitality Group has flourished, setting new standards in the hospitality and tourism industry.
Founding Batoka Africa
In 2020, Vimbai, alongside her mother, Tsitsi Masiyiwa, launched Batoka Africa, making history as the first Black African female owner-operators of a safari lodge chain. The acquisition of Zambezi Sands River Camp and Gorges Lodge marked the beginning of a transformative journey. The lodges, located near Victoria Falls, are not just luxurious retreats but catalysts for social change and local economic growth.
Batoka Africa's properties are designed to uplift the local communities. For instance, the Zambezi Sands lodge, which reopened in 2023 after a major refurbishment, is part of the Beyond Green portfolio, known for its sustainable tourism practices. The lodge is plastic-free and runs entirely on solar power. Gorges Lodge, located on the edge of the Batoka Gorge, is currently undergoing renovation to enhance its offerings.
Vimbai's commitment to community empowerment is evident in her various initiatives. At Batoka Africa, approximately 40 percent of the staff are women, reflecting her dedication to gender inclusivity. She has spearheaded several community-focused projects, including the Women of Shingani sewing collective, which generates income through the sale of household items and reusable sanitary products. The Tesse Fund, another initiative, allocates a percentage of each bed night sold towards community projects such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
Challenges and Vision
Navigating the predominantly male-dominated safari industry has presented its challenges. However, Vimbai views her race and age as distinct advantages that allow her to introduce innovative perspectives. Her mother, Tsitsi Masiyiwa, serves as both a co-founder and a constant source of inspiration, providing a wealth of experience that complements Vimbai's visionary approach.
Personal Interests and Inspirations
Vimbai's passion for hospitality was sparked during a trip to Victoria Falls with her family, where she witnessed the stark contrast between the luxurious safari experiences and the local community's living conditions. This experience fueled her desire to use hospitality as a tool for social change.
In her free time, Vimbai enjoys early morning game drives and bush meditations, finding peace and inspiration in the natural beauty of Zimbabwe. She is also an active participant in the Innovate Elevate Youth Conference, which she co-created in 2016. This initiative has reached over 9 million people, convening current and aspiring leaders across Zimbabwe to discuss economic empowerment.
Looking ahead, Vimbai aims to lead Batoka Africa towards a more inclusive and representative safari industry. She is dedicated to creating opportunities for women in leadership roles and balancing cultural norms with the need for gender empowerment. By investing in the upskilling of women, Vimbai hopes to cultivate a new generation of female leaders in the hospitality industry.
Conclusion
Vimbai Masiyiwa's journey is a testament to the power of vision, resilience, and community-focused leadership. Through Batoka Africa, she continues to break barriers and set new standards in the hospitality industry, all while making a lasting impact on the communities she serves. Her story is an inspiration to young entrepreneurs and a beacon of hope for a more inclusive and sustainable future.
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