Shows
The Ignition Zone PodcastTrade between Nigeria and America - Lessons for Business Leaders with Wofai SamuelSend us a textWofai Samuel, Acting Director General of the Nigerian American Chamber of Commerce, shares her journey as a woman leader in a male-dominated environment and provides insights into Nigeria's economic potential through strategic trade partnerships. She brings a wealth of knowledge about bridging the gap between Nigeria's private sector and international markets, particularly focusing on US-Nigeria relations.Breaking barriers as a woman in leadership by focusing on competence, skills, and value rather than genderThe Nigerian American Chamber of Commerce's role in promoting trade between Nigeria and the US since 1960How the...2025-04-2149 min
The Ignition Zone PodcastNigeria's Economic Evolution: MSMEs as Growth Engines with Prof Joseph NnannaSend us a textProfessor Joseph Nnanna, Chief Economist at the Development Bank of Nigeria, provides a comprehensive analysis of Nigeria's economic landscape and innovative approaches to financing MSMEs for inclusive growth. He examines recent reforms including fuel subsidy removal and the impact of the Dangote Refinery while highlighting how financial institutions are creating targeted products for women and youth entrepreneurs.Nigeria experienced decreased growth rates and flattened GDP from 2015-2022 due to policy missteps and global economic shocksRecent reforms include fuel subsidy removal and domestic oil refining through Dangote Refinery, helping conserve foreign...2025-03-1535 min
The Ignition Zone PodcastRethinking/Improving Education in a holistic manner with Dr Sibongile VilakaziSend us a textWe engage with Dr. Sibongile Vilakazi, a prominent educator, examining the pressing issues of youth unemployment and education in South Africa. We delve into the urgent need for educational reform to better prepare young people for the workforce. • Discuss the alarming youth unemployment rate in South Africa • Explore the importance of integrating skills development into the educational system • Understand how home environments impact educational outcomes • Analyze the roles of government and private sectors in creating infrastructures for change • Debate the relevance of traditional university education versus vocational training •...2025-03-0150 min
The Ignition Zone PodcastZambia's economy, entrepreneurship, and opportunities with Jito KayumbaSend us a textWhat if a unified Africa could reshape the global economic landscape?In this thought-provoking episode of The Ignition Zone, I sat down with Jito Kayumba, Zambia's Presidential Economic and Investment Advisor, to explore the strategic economic reforms and growth initiatives shaping Zambia’s future—and by extension, Africa’s.1. A New Economic Era for ZambiaZambia has been navigating bold economic reforms under President Hakainde Hichilema’s leadership. With a private sector-driven approach, the country has prioritized debt r...2025-02-191h 04
The Ignition Zone PodcastThe hidden crisis: Multidimensional Poverty in South Africa with Dr Pali LehohlaSend us a textWelcome to the Ignition Zone, where we ignite change with Dr Pali Lehohla, the former Statistician-General of South Africa. Discover the transformative potential of looking at poverty beyond income, embracing a multidimensional perspective championed by Nobel laureate Amartya Sen. Journey with us through the complexities of poverty in Africa and learn from Dr. Lehohla's experiences with the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative. Dr. Lehohla emphasizes the crucial role of evidence-based interventions and systems thinking in addressing South Africa's inequality and unemployment issues.Unearth the intricate ties between education, unemployment, and...2025-02-0948 min
The Ignition Zone PodcastUnpacking Tanzania's exciting economic future with Andrew MahigaSend us a textEver wondered how Tanzania is unlocking its vast economic potential amidst challenges that many African nations face? Join me as I sit down with Andrew Mahiga, the Country Director for the Department for Business and Trade at the British High Commission in Dar es Salaam. With over a decade of expertise in policy engagement and trade facilitation, Andrew shares invaluable insights on creating an enabling business environment, addressing taxation hurdles, and bridging the skills gap that stymies investment and innovation in Tanzania.As Tanzania experiences rapid economic growth in sectors like...2025-01-2548 min
The Ignition Zone PodcastLooking at 16 African Economies: Challenges, Successes, and What’s NextSend us a textIn this episode of The Ignition Zone Podcast, we explore the economic and entrepreneurial landscape of 16 African countries across Southern, East, West, North, and Central Africa. Using a quadrant analysis framework, we highlight key indicators like GDP growth, poverty, unemployment, and entrepreneurship ecosystems.From Mauritius’ success as a financial hub to Kenya’s Silicon Savannah and South Africa’s challenges with inequality, we uncover what has shaped these economies and the opportunities ahead. We also discuss lessons from 2025-01-0427 min
The Ignition Zone PodcastIntroduction to the Ignition Zone PodcastSend us a textThis podcast is a champion of economic development, entrepreneurship, and career development in Africa. Here we detail immense economic opportunity in Africa while dealing with some of its most difficult challenges like poverty, investment, and youth unemployment. Watch on YouTube on: https://youtu.be/CHJlseTM3hM?si=YzK_RPOa0pESGTXp2024-12-2909 min
Acalytica LoungeMmathebe Zvobwo on Entrepreneurship and High Growth EnterprisesMmathebe Zvobwo discusses various topics around entrepreneurship and job creation based on here research entitled "Facilitating high growth enterprises through seed stage investing in South Africa"#success #entrepreneurialmindset #jobsSupport the showVisit https://acalytica.com2024-12-2137 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 37: Closing Season 2 with MindfulnessIt's the end of the year and it's time for some reflection. This episode closes Season 2 of the Wellness for Entrepreneurs Podcast and also helps you to practice mindfulness techniques that are useful for you as an entrepreneur. Please take some time out for yourself to nourish your mind as it is your most important asset. Thank you again for your continued support. May you have a blessed holiday season! 2021-12-0910 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 36: How to make sense of a changing world in businessWe are living in a world that is constantly changing which makes planning for business strategy very difficult. In this episode, we speak about how you can sharpen your sensemaking ability that will help you find direction in a chaotic environment. Sensemaking is useful for entrepreneurs as a strategy because it provides a framework that can be used for decision-making. 2021-11-1116 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 35: Marketing as a strategy for innovative entrepreneurs, with Fiona KigenMarketing is often the last thing entrepreneurs think about when making their product/service and starting their business. But, marketing is a powerful strategy for entrepreneurs and must be part of the product development process right at the beginning. Fiona Kigen - a marketing expert, Ph.D., and Vice President - shares how entrepreneurs can do this in this episode. This episode is part of our strategy for entrepreneurs series.2021-09-0938 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 34: How to develop Strategy as an EntrepreneurStrategy for entrepreneurs is more critical than the product/service that they offer. Strategy is about creating a plan to win right at the beginning of starting your business. In this episode, I talk about how Entrepreneurial Orientation is useful for entrepreneurs as a strategy. Stay tuned as this is a series. I also suggest tools that entrepreneurs can use to help develop their strategies in their businesses. 2021-08-2620 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 33: How to deal with burnout as an entrepreneurEntrepreneurs face a high risk of burnout due to their passion, uncertain environments, and conflicting demands. But the "hustle-culture" has promoted an inability to recognize burnout in entrepreneurs. This episode helps entrepreneurs to recognize burnout and recommends strategies for coping. 2021-07-2918 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 32: Dealing with the fear of failure in business, with Didier MbayoFailure is such a natural part of business and entrepreneurship. Yet, there are so many people who do not start businesses because they have fear. In this episode, I am joined by personal and leadership coach, Didier Mbayo. Didier is a certified coach from the John Maxwell Academy. Our conversation focuses on the mindset required to overcome the different types of failure entrepreneurs face including the fear of shame and embarrassment. 2021-07-0152 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 31: Finding opportunity in the tourism sector, with Robyn ChristieThe travel and tourism industry has been one of the hardest hit and disrupted by recent changes that happened over the last year and a half. For entrepreneurs in the travel and tourism industry, it is time to take stock of these changes and find opportunities to grow your business! Robyn Christie shares how you can do this, and the mindset required to make the necessary shifts! Robyn is a thought leader in the industry and the Founder and CEO of RobynChristie.com. She is a former CEO of many industry-leading organizations. This episode is brought to you in...2021-06-161h 09
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 30: How to build the mindset to disrupt yourself, with Nicky VerdNicky Verd is the author of "Disrupt yourself or be Disrupted" - a book about how disruption is not only happening to businesses, but also to individuals. In this episode, we chat about the mindset required for you to assess your skills, your business, and to be proactive in responding to the disruption brought about by technology, and our new world. Nicky is a digital strategist and thought leader. This episode is certainly a treat! 2021-06-0256 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 29: Balancing family and identity as an entrepreneur, with Edzai ZvobwoIn this episode, Edzai Zvobwo and I speak about how to navigate family as an entrepreneur and how to design synergies and boundaries that help you thrive in your entrepreneurship journey. We talk about the importance of maintaining balance such that you stay centered while navigating the challenges of growing and starting a business. Edzai is the founder and Chief Genius of MathsGee.com. 2021-05-2034 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 29: Balancing family and identity as an entrepreneurIn this episode, Edzai Zvobwo and I speak about how to navigate family as an entrepreneur and how to design synergies and boundaries that help you thrive in your entrepreneurship journey. We talk about the importance of maintaining balance such that you stay centered while navigating the challenges of growing and starting a business. Edzai is the founder and Chief Genius of MathsGee.com. 2021-05-2034 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 28: Your identity as an entrepreneur – “Who am I?”Entrepreneurs push boundaries and colour outside the lines. They are often misunderstood. In this episode, I speak about how you can maintain your distinct identity as an entrepreneur while designing a life for yourself that provides you with both comfort and strength to continue colouring outside the lines. You will hear about how human beings define their identities and the psychological needs that accompany those identities and how entrepreneurs can optimise these contrasting needs to maintain their uniqueness. 2021-05-0618 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 27: Nuts and Bolts Book Review - innovating in Africa, with Dr. McLean SibandaNuts and Bolts is an inspirational book that ignites entrepreneurs, policymakers, investors, and mentors to build an environment that supports innovation and enables entrepreneurs to thrive. In this episode, I spoke to the author of Nuts and Bolts, Dr. McLean Sibanda about the book and how he repositioned Africa’s first internationally accredited technology and science park in Pretoria, South Africa.We start our conversation with his personal story, his professional journey, and ultimately the impact The Innovation Hub had on entrepreneurs. We are also joined by two avid listeners of the podcast: Terrie Molepo and Benny Ma...2021-04-221h 34
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 26: How to build self-belief in business, with Aaron MunetsiSelf-belief in entrepreneurship is not just about being a confident person. It is about believing in your abilities to start and run a business successfully even when faced with failure. In this episode, I speak to Aaron Munetsi, a pioneer in aviation on the African continent. Starting from the Wrights Brothers who pioneered the aviation industry to people like Aaron, I believe there is a lot we can learn about how to be confident in your entrepreneurial abilities and to stay resilient and open-minded when the going gets tough. We talk about how society and parents are so critical...2021-03-181h 02
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 25, How social innovators create lasting change, with Daisy KopoloSocial innovation has become part of our normal world. According to the World Economic Forum, social issues such as Climate Change and Pandemics are problems that need urgent solutions. A volatile and complex world provides an opportunity for entrepreneurs to tackle some of the social issues. In this episode, I speak to Daisy Kopolo, who is an executive coach and has worked with many executive teams in solving complex problems. We talk about all the different elements that need to be in place for entrepreneurs to start and run successful social enterprises that have an innovative and long-lasting impact...2021-03-111h 10
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 24: How to be a great thinker in business - metacognitionHave you ever admired how classical great entrepreneurs like Elon Musk, or Bill Gates are able to think about various issues in a way that is above average? Metacognition – or thinking about thinking – is a higher way of thinking that allows you to be conscious, self-aware and see issues from different angles. In this episode, I speak about how you too can become a great thinker and give practical tools to help you get started. I also challenge you to an activity that will help the quality of your thinking and awareness over time.2021-03-0411 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 23: How to lead, manage strategy, and execute, with Dr. Alex GrangerEntrepreneurs must plan and execute their strategies all at the same time. How do they become excellent at leading themselves and their teams without losing sight of their vision? In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Alex Granger – a global speaker and leadership coach. Dr. Alex has been coaching leadership teams of companies for over 19 years and has worked with companies like Tsogo Sun, Standard Bank, governments, and other institutions. Our conversation is centered around how entrepreneurs can become conscious, dynamic, and visionary leaders while executing their plans. We also talk about practical tools that can help them do...2021-02-251h 10
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 22: How to spot new opportunities, with Kwame BekoeEntrepreneurs discover or create opportunities that ultimately lead to some of our favourite products and solutions to real pressing problems. But how exactly do they spot these opportunities in the first place? What is the mental alertness and type of thinking that allows entrepreneurs to continuously move the world forward? In this episode, I spoke to Kwame Bekoe who is an aviation professional, engineer, and the founder of a popular restaurant in Accra, Ghana – N8tive Food & Beverage Bar. Having been a former sales director at Airbus and traveled all over the world, Kwame decided to pursue multiple businesses in...2021-02-1847 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 21: How high growth entrepreneurs think, with Jito KayumbaHave you ever wondered why one business can stay the same for 10 years while one gets listed on the stock exchange in 10 years? High-growth entrepreneurs grow their businesses rapidly and they have a different mindset. I spoke to Jito, partner at Kukula Capital – a Private Equity firm based in Zambia - on the mindset of creating high growth enterprises. Jito sits on the boards of both listed and privately owned firms in Zambia, Kenya, and South Africa. He has led multiple investments in high growth enterprises across the continent. Jito is a leader is a thought leader in hi...2021-02-1157 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 20: How to deal with rejection in businessThere is an old saying that goes champions eat "no" for breakfast. It is definitely true for entrepreneurs. I recently spoke at an incubator celebrating the entrepreneurs who had graduated from that incubator. I was encouraged by these entrepreneurs that despite having so much on their plate, they had put in 3 months to work on their businesses. And yet, after all their hard work, they will still encounter much rejection in business. So, this episode is about 3 things to do when you hear "no". I hope you feel motivated. 2021-02-0410 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 19: How to become an entrepreneurial leader, with Charles WashomaEntrepreneurial leadership is about infusing innovation into your business while managing risk. It is a type of leadership that motivates people to spot new opportunities in achieving the business's purpose. I spoke to Charles Washoma, a seasoned board director and CEO on how entrepreneurs can lead their businesses and how large organizations should be thinking about culture and entrepreneurial leadership. 2021-01-2835 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 18: Staying motivated as a change agent with, Zukiswa MqolombaMany entrepreneurs are change agents whether it is they are creating new markets or working on a social issue. But, how do they manage to keep themselves motivated when their path is not always a straightforward one? In this episode, I spoke to Zukiswa Mqolomba who is a socio-economic change activist and pioneer. Zukiswa has worked for the World Bank, the African Development Bank, and held many directorships in government departments. She is also an entrepreneur. Listen to this episode to hear more about how to stay motivated and keep yourself grounded when working in a space filled with...2021-01-2125 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 17: Season 2 Trailer!Season 2 is all about exploring different facets of how entrepreneurs think. It is to bring consciousness to your days as you go about building your business. We have loads of exciting guests to help you do this! Listen to find out more! 2021-01-1404 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 16: Igniting your entrepreneurial driveIt's the start of a new year and it's time to ignite your entrepreneurial drive and get ready to accomplish all that you have set for yourself. If you are like me, you had to convince your brain to switch on. I looked for inspiration from an entrepreneur who founded what is now a $30 billion US Dollar Market Cap business. This entrepreneur found himself in similar circumstances to ours this year. I was surprised to see that very few people talk about this Japanese entrepreneur. Listen to his story and be inspired!2021-01-0709 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 15: How to develop a disruptive and innovative mindset, with Dr. Nik EberlDeveloping an innovative and disruptive mindset is important for entrepreneurs. There are certain tools that entrepreneurs and their teams can use to help them practice and ultimately develop consistent innovative thinking. In this episode, we speak to Dr. Nik Eberl who is an innovation scholar and practitioner. He is the founder of many global companies including The Unicorn Disruptovator, The LinkedIn DealMaker, and Clients for Life. In our conversation, we learn from entrepreneurs like Elon Musk and Steve Jobs as well as start-ups like Uber and eBay. 2020-12-0235 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 14: The history and future of entrepreneurship in Africa, with Dr. Charles SinkalaVery little is known about the first form of trade and entrepreneurship in Africa. Today the African continent is one of the poorest continents in the world. But history shows that trade and entrepreneurship happened in Africa in the early 500s. In this episode, we explore the mindset of entrepreneurship that existed in Africa in the early 500s and we trace it to the entrepreneurial mindset that exists in the 21st Century. I spoke to Dr. Charles Sinkala who is an international political analyst and lawyer by background. He is a former member of Parliament in Zambia and the...2020-11-2648 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 13: The mindset of transitioning from corporate to entrepreneurship, with Adi KaimowitzMany employees are starting to thinking about how to transition from full-time employment to entrepreneurship or freelancing. In this episode, we talk to Adi Kaimowitz who is the co-founder and CEO of Virtual Actuary on the mindset required for people to transition from employment to entrepreneurship. Virtual Actuary is a platform that connects professional actuaries across the world to clients in banking, insurance, ICT, and other sectors.Our conversation covers the practical things that transitioning employees need to do and the thinking and behavior they have to adopt to help be successful entrepreneurs. We talk about ho...2020-11-1950 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 12: How entrepreneurs should think about technology in their businesses - with Lindelwa SkenjanaTechnology is changing the world in an unprecedented way. In this episode, we talk to Lindelwa Skenjana about how entrepreneurs, who may not be technology entrepreneurs, should be thinking about digital technologies both to enable their businesses and to transform them. Lindelwa Skenjana is a digital adoption strategist and holds an MSc. in ICT for Development from the University of Manchester. She was named in the Mail and Guardian Top 200 Young People to watch in 2019 for her work on this topic. Our conversation covers the use of various digital technologies; how entrepreneurs can overcome the fear associated wi...2020-11-1140 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 11 – How entrepreneurs should be thinking about global change, trade, and tensions – with Bongivangeli Buthelezi In this episode, we talk about global trends that have created uncertainty and perhaps some anxiety for entrepreneurs and business people around the world. We talk to Bongivangeli Buthelezi, a political and economic commentator, on global trade, multilateral institutions, recent events around, and their implications on entrepreneurship and innovation. We also talk about changes brought about by Covid-19, technology shifts, and climate change and what they mean for entrepreneurs.2020-11-051h 11
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 10: Increasing your creativity, brand consciousness, and telling your story – with Joanne AugustinCreativity is one of the gems that enables entrepreneurs to spot new opportunities. Additionally, creativity is essential to brand development and telling your story in such a way that it has resonance with your audience. In this episode, I spoke to brand and content strategist, Joanne Augustin, on how creativity fuels entrepreneurship and how entrepreneurs can tell their stories a lot better.Joanne Augustin is the founder of Unites States-based "All Things Content" - a brand and content strategy consulting firm. She has 10 years’ experience working with major brands such as Del Taco. You may fin...2020-10-2934 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 09: How data and mathematics enhance entrepreneurial thinking – with Mathematician, Edzai Zvobwo.Some of our listeners have been interested in how they can overcome some of their cognitive biases as they grow their businesses. In this episode, we talk to Edzai Zvobwo who is the founder and CEO of MathsGee.com on how data science and mathematics can be used to overcome cognitive biases that are common to entrepreneurs. He is a mathematician by training and is an executive data science coach.2020-10-2234 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 08: A psychologist's view on entrepreneurship and wellness with Clinical Psychologist, Batetshi MatengeEntrepreneurs often do not have the resources to commit themselves to long-term psychotherapy. This could be resources either in time, money, or both. In this episode, I interviewed a dear friend and a clinical psychologist on the importance of psychotherapy, mindfulness, and self-reflection for entrepreneurs.Batetshi Matenge has a Masters in Clinical Psychology (Cum Laude) from the University of Cape Town. She specializes in dealing with long-term thought patterns that lead to breakthroughs and change in behavior. 2020-10-1534 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 07: Hearing from an entrepreneur on Wellness – Sipamandla Manqele Founder and CEO of Local Village FoodsIn this episode, we have a meaningful conversation with the founder and CEO of Local Village Foods on maintaining wellness as an entrepreneur. Local Village Foods is a pan-African conscious food brand that specializes in organic products that are locally produced across the African continent. Local Village Foods supplies over 13 large retail stores and restaurants such as Jacksons' real food market, The Spar Group, and Faithful to Nature. 2020-10-0824 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 06: Emotions in entrepreneurship – managing your emotions for better outcomesEvery first Thursday of the month we dedicate some time to talking about emotions, fear, and entrepreneurship. In this episode, we talk about the various ways in which emotions impact entrepreneurial or business outcomes. I suggest ways in which entrepreneurs can increase their mindfulness with regards to their emotional wellness.2020-10-0112 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 05: If the environment impacts how entrepreneurs think, is South Africa conducive for entrepreneurs?We celebrate Heritage Day in South Africa on the 24th of September each year. But do we really have a heritage that allows entrepreneurs to thrive in their thinking? If you are listening from any country that is not South Africa, I would like you to reflect on the culture in your own country and determine if it enables or impedes entrepreneurial thinking.2020-09-2410 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 03: Entrepreneurial team thinking and its benefitsThere is power in harnessing multiple perspectives when starting your business. This increases your chance of success. In this episode, we unpack what entrepreneurial team thinking is and the various aspects entail that relate to the success of a new venture.2020-09-1107 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 02: Why building an entrepreneurial team is important90% of start-ups fail within the first 3 years. This just shows that starting a new business is incredibly risky and uncertain. In this episode, we talk about how building a team is a good strategy for new venture creation.2020-09-1107 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 04: Maintaining entrepreneurial thinking and wellness in a time of crisisThe firms that survive any crisis are those that spot new opportunities and adjust their strategies to exploit these opportunities. In this episode, we talk about how entrepreneurs need to harness their thinking in this time of change while paying attention to their emotional wellness. 2020-09-1109 min
Wellness for EntrepreneursEpisode 01: Introduction to Wellness for EntrepreneursWellness for entrepreneurs is a space for founders and their teams to share how they make sense of the world in identifying new ideas and opportunities. It is also about how they manage their overall wellness while creating new ventures.2020-08-2203 min
Human Development ZoneEntrepreneurship Interview Mmathebe Zvobwo - Amai CapitalAn interview with Mathebe Zvobwo CA (SA) of Amai Capital on entrepreneurship and job creation in South Africa.2018-11-0914 min
SABC North WestMMATHEBE ZVOBWO'S PROFILEDukhule Ngcongolo talking to Mmathebe Zvobwo on who she is.2018-08-1608 min
SABC North WestMMATHEBE ZVOBWO'S PROFILEDukhule Ngcongolo talking to Mmathebe Zvobwo on who she is.2018-08-1608 min