February 2024

The founder and managing director of SECURICO and Zvikomborero Farms Divine Simbi-Ndhlukula says by stepping into a previously male-dominated space, they changed the narrative and perceptions of the security industry in Zimbabwe. In her recently released book Entrepreneurial Success: Insights on Growing Business in a Fluid Economy, Ndhlukula narrated how it took her uniquely stubborn mindset to change the perceptions and stereotypes which existed within the country’s security landscape. “Being a woman can be hard. Being a female business owner is even harder. Establishing a security company in what had been a male-dominated space seemed to be an insurmountable task. Even the workforce in the security sector was predominantly male, and clients often preferred them, perhaps assuming that they were stronger than women. It took a uniquely stubborn mindset to change all of that”(pp,19) reads the opening paragraph of the first chapter of the book. A renowned philanthropist, educationist and women’s empowerment champion, and the first woman to successfully venture into the security sector, Ndhlukula is ecstatic that the entity she founded in a corner kitchen with just four employees back in 1998 now employs a total workforce of 4300 with a quarter of the staff being women. Ndhlukula narrated how she was ridiculed and mocked when she conceived the idea of starting SECURICO. It’s no surprise that I faced dismissive responses and scathing ridicule when I first started SECURICO. At that time it was a company with zero capital, no track record in the security industry, and a woman at the helm. To many, I was a punchline, and derisive whispers and laughter followed news of my audacious aspirations when they were shared. But what I did possess was a growth mindset–a belief that eventually propelled me to greatness. (pp.19) She added “Prior to launching SECURICO, while conducting research, I approached a certain security company. The owner, a gentleman I had known from my past, seemed like a good port of call for an in-depth interview. When I shared my plan to start a security company, he burst into derisive laughter as if my ambitions were a joke. Though it was over two decades ago,I still vividly remember him saying Ambuya ava vati vanoda ku competer nesu (This woman says she wants to compete with us). He used Ambuya in a mocking tone, insinuating that a black woman could not penetrate this male-dominated industry. Nonetheless, his laughter was a waste of energy and time, as he no doubt later discovered. Little did he know at the time that the fire that burned within me was a fire that no amount of laughter could extinguish”(pp 22-23) Ndhlukula also revealed that SECURICO was not her first business but in fact a subsequent result of a prior series of intra and entrepreneurial attempts and recounted how her first attempt in full-time entrepreneurship at Zvikomborero Farms suffered a stillbirth sending her back to full-time employment following a terrible drought spell in 1992. “Contrary to what many think, SECURICO was not my first business. I had developed an interest in entrepreneurship at the tender age of twelve when I had found clarity of purpose on what future path I was going to take in life. I would later side hustle in various businesses I would work in, from selling clothes to my work colleagues to running canteens in certain companies located in the industrial areas of Harare. My experiences as an accounting officer at the state broadcaster, the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC), as well as at the then Intermarket(formerly Southampton now ZB Life Assurance) eventually propelled my interest towards full-time entrepreneurship. It is against this background that, in 1992, I naively attempted crop farming in agricultural area ecologically suited to cattle ranching. During that time, a terrible drought cast a spell of doom over my hopes and dreams for this venture and sent me back to employment before my eventual return to full-time entrepreneurship when I started SECURICO in 1998”–(pp.15-16) The book essentially lays out 10 nuggets which could result in success if adopted by aspiring entrepreneurs and anyone with an interest in business. She emphasises the importance of cultivating a positive mindset which enabled her to penetrate what was a previously male-dominated space despite encountering societal ridicule and criticism and challenges from both intra and entrepreneurs. “Wake up, start living! Embrace your purpose, harness the boundless potential of your imagination, and embark on your entrepreneurial journey with the conviction that you can be the architect of positive change both in own life and in the world…Success after all is not a destination, it’s a journey–one that begins with a single step, fuelled by the power of the mind, and guided by the light of purpose”–(pp.41) Recently inducted into the Hall of Fame 2023 by the world’s only global business excellence membership body the Business Excellence(BEX) Institute in Ireland, Ndhlukula has won multiple accolades including being one of Forbes Most Influential Women in Africa,EY World Entrepreneurship Award in the Exceptional Category amongst others. She says a portion of the profits generated from the sales of the book would be donated to projects delivering and supporting education for the marginalised and vulnerable in Zimbabwe. About The Book In her debut as an author, Divine Simbi-Ndhlukula (PhD) provides ten powerful success insights for budding and established entrepreneurs alike. Zeroing in on her life’s work in her business enterprises at SECURICO and Zvikomborero Farms, she distils business administration concepts into everyday life principles that we all can admit we already know but fail to leverage on. In particular women in business will find Divine’s frank approach to the peculiar constraints that women must overcome to balance the scales in business and society both encouraging and enlightening. In this book, she reminds us all that if we dare to step up and step out in order to solve the challenges and problems society faces today, we will find, through good times and bad, wins and losses–fortunate favours the brave. The book is now available globally on Amazon,

Multi-award-winning entrepreneur, philanthropist and women’s empowerment champion Divine Simbi-Ndhlukula has launched her debut book titled Entrepreneurial Success: Insights on Growing Business in a Fluid Economy at a private ceremony held in Harare which was attended by key stakeholders from academicians, business executives, ambassadors, government officials and close colleagues. Simbi-Ndhlukula is the founder and managing director of DDNS Security Operations which is the holding company for SECURICO. She is the founder and managing director of Zvikomborero Farms, an agro-centric entity specialising in livestock production. The book captures Simbi-Ndhlukula’s evolution from being an entrepreneur as she worked for other companies up until she established Zvikomborero Farms and later SECURICO in 1998. “Entrepreneurial Success: Insights on Growing Business in a Fluid Economy encompasses principles, insights and lessons that I learned over the decades, from starting off as an intrapreneur to becoming an entrepreneur and celebrated CEO of a leading security company that has established, a solid footprint within the region” reads part of the book’s introductory remarks. Simbi-Ndhlukula stated that it was her hope and desire to help the next generation of African leaders in business. “As leaders become more seasoned in business, their immediate assignment is to share their experiences with others and groom the next generation of leaders who will lift the continent out of poverty through entrepreneurial solutions”. Alpha Media Holdings chairman Trevor Ncube chaired the panel discussion and described Simbi-Ndhlukula as a goal-getter who had completely disrupted the security industry in Zimbabwe. During the panel discussion at the launch, former TelOne CEO Chipo Mtasa, renowned author and lawyer Petina Gappah and business development consultant Prechard Mhako all described the book as a game-changer to all would be entrepreneurs and business leaders. The book has also been endorsed by business leaders with the founding CEO of Richard Brandson’s Virgin Unite Jean Oelwang describing it as one packed with practical wisdom for business leaders. “Her resilience, moral courage, sheer determination and focus on people is awe inspiring” stated Oelwang. (pp,3) Founder and CEO of Nyaradzo Phillip Mataranyika stated that: “Divine’s book was more than a chronicle of her ascent in the corporate world and added that the book was a trove of wisdom, gleaned from years of innovation and a staggering commitment to excellence” (pp,4). Simbi-Ndhlukula dedicated the book to the courageous men and women who are defying the odds to launch start-ups in a fluid environment. “Special dedication goes to the thousands of SECURICO and Zvikomborero employees, past and present, who had faith in my grand aspirations and helped me pursue them, even doing so seemed utterly impossible” Guest of honour at the event, Tererai Trent stated that Simbi-Ndhlukula’s book would guide many entrepreneurs and business leaders to success. “If you are an entrepreneur, aspiring business leader or anyone interested in the business world, this book is a guide which will lead you to success” she said. In the book, Simbi-Ndhlukula shares ten success nuggets for both intrapreneurs and entrepreneurs and argues that striving for excellence is one of the recipes for success. “Both my experiences as an intrapreneur and later as an entrepreneur had one underlying common lesson and prevailing principle: that striving for excellence in all our areas of expertise and roles and being the best at what one does is what distinguishes accomplished and successful people from the ordinary” (pp.16). She paid tribute to legends, including her parents who empowered her and made her envision a world of possibilities even as a girl child; further mentioning Brandson and his epic journey in creating Virgin, Kubi Chaza-Indi, the first indigenous businesswoman in Zimbabwe and Professor Hope Sadza and her journey in creating Women’s University in Africa and many more who played a pivotal role in encouraging and inspiring her towards her successes in business. The first copy of the book was bought for USD $10 000 by property mogul and West Prop chairman Kern Sharpe. Simbi-Ndhlukula said a portion of the profits generated from the sales of the book would be donated to projects delivering and supporting education for the marginalised and vulnerable in Zimbabwe. The book is now available globally on Amazon, in bookshops, distribution centres, and locations across the country, www.divinesimbindhlukula.co.zw ,as well as Batanai Gardens in Harare or contact +263 776 030 949 Source: Building Narratives: SECURICO boss shares gold nuggets in new book – The Standard

An act of discovering what you think and what you believe, launched as her 64th birthday present on the 8th of February to both men and women entrepreneurs around the world, facing business  and societal challenges. Divine Ndhukula, motivated by her past, present and future as a successful businesswoman running a security company, Securico in Zimbabwe, penned a debut titled, “Entrepreneurial Success” which is said to be carrying life changing answers to upcoming and existing entrepreneurs.. The 10 chapter book has different titles such as, Personal Identity, Discipline in Financial Management, Play to Win, Ship in or Ship out to mention just a few. Divine said she inked her personal experience, a profound journey of self-discovery and growth, encapsulating the lessons leaned from decades of navigating the complex world of business and personal life to cultivate a positive mindset to the young and the old, men and women who will read the book. “The book’s fundamental premise revolves around the art of mastering execution and action, emphasising the importance of translating ideas into tangible outcomes,” added Ndhlukula. “It delves into the significance of crafting a unique value proposition, a cornerstone for triumph in a competitive discipline in financial management, underscoring the pivotal role it plays in sustaining long-term success,” said Ndhlukula. Author and Minister, Prof Sekai Nzenza said it was very inspiring, seeing the entrepreneurial spirit displayed by Ndhlukula over the years. “The whole lot of people here realise that Ndhlukula is very much an inspiration to both men and women, looking beyond the present but to see the future, what she has done is a legacy,” said Nzenza. CEO Africa Roundtable Chairman, Oswel Binha told this publication that he has no doubt but expected such an outstanding work for his business counterpart whom he described as a serious business woman with passion to see people changing their lives and growing. Guest speaker, Dr Tererai Trent, said as one of the Zimbabwean and African philanthropist, she is not a victim but part of the solution same with Divine. “This world’s healing is in our hands as women, standing on the shoulders of  fellow women who have successfully broken the barriers of stereotypes and culture, women must write their own books and become walkers of their talk,”said Trent. The event held in the capital city, was graced by various stakeholders in government, and private sector, musicians, artist and media personnel came offering their support to this cause. In her presentation during the launch she said, “either write something worth reading or do something worth writing”. Source: Philanthropist, Ndhlukula Launches Book – Keeping You posted

DIVINE Ndhlukula (DN) is one of the most successful businesswomen in Africa. She is known for establishing and growing Securico Security Services into one of Zimbabwe’s top firms in that space. She then diversified into farming. Ndhlukula’s Zvikomborero Farms is also becoming a leading entity in its sector. In her new book released last week, she shared experiences about how to grow a small and medium enterprise (SME) into a large corporation. Our deputy group business editor Tatira Zwinoira (TZ) interviewed her at the launch of the book, Entrepreneurial Success Insights on Growing Business in a Fluid Economy. Below are excerpts from their discussion: TZ: Why did you decide to write the book? DN: First and foremost, I have a lot of people that look up to me —  everyone who is starting a business. I started this business when we had just gone over the Economic Structural Adjustment Programme (1990 to 1995). That was way back. It was a volatile time. People were losing jobs. There were a lot of layoffs. People were questioning whether they could start a business when people were losing jobs. There was just so much despondency. But, as they say, entrepreneurship is about seeing what the problems in society are, which require solutions. So I managed to do that. TZ: The environment was a bit harsh? DN: Our business has gone through a lot of cycles —  the ups and downs of this economy. We went through high inflation in 2007 and 2008. From 2009, there was a semblance of order. But there had been a depression and people had lost their livelihoods. There have been cycles like that. However, it did not deter us. We still grew our operations. Because of this, people look at me and say you are a woman, and you are running a business in a sector perceived not to be suitable for women. All these things were totally against me. People come to my inbox to learn from me. Everyday I receive invitations to speak at different business fora in Zimbabwe and outside. So I said I have a story to share. That is the reason behind this book.  TZ: What do the people say? DN: People want mentorship from me. This is particularly so for young African men and women.  Some of us are on our way out. If an elder dies, a whole library has just gone. This is why I felt I should share what I think, which can really be key for the prosperity of the next generations.

SECURICO Security Services founder and managing director, Divine Ndhlukula, has published a book titled Entrepreneurial Success Insights On growing business in a fluid economy which details her journey as an entrepreneur while also giving advice to perspective business owners. The book was published after several years of Ndhlukula putting pen to paper as the business executive sought to highlight key aspects of her entrepreneurial journey. In her speech at the launch of the book last Thursday, Ndhlukula said Entrepreneurial Success Insights On growing business in a fluid economy went beyond the boardroom to give practical advice on how up-and-coming entrepreneurs can navigate a challenging environment. “It delves into the heart of my journey, unveiling the challenges, victories and growth that shaped, not only my business, but my personal and entrepreneurial evolution,” she said. “This book is relevant to startups, established entrepreneurs, tertiary students, colleagues in corporates. Women will particularly find my frank approach to peculiar constraints that we must overcome, quite encouraging to balance the scales in business and society. It is a vision for the next generation.” She said as a leader she owed to the next generation of African leaders to share her experience as  a mentor and by grooming them. “I am glad this book is my contribution to that mission, and that it is a home-grown story to share with our next generation of African business leaders, who should know the ethos of working, not waking up one day and voila, there is a Rolls Royce on the doorstep,” Ndhlukula said. The executive said she penned the business book to highlight her journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Source: Ndhlukula launches entrepreneurial book -Newsday Zimbabwe

n her debut as an author, Divine Simbi-Ndhlukula (PhD) in her new book, Entrepreneurial Success: Growing Business in a Fluid Economy, provides ten powerful success insights for budding and established entrepreneurs alike. Zeroing in on her life’s work in her business enterprises at SECURICO and Zvikomborero Farms, she distills business administration concepts into everyday life principles that we all can admit we already know but fail to leverage. In Entrepreneurial Success: Growing Business in a Fluid Economy, women entrepreneurs will find Divine Simbi-Ndhlukula’s frank approach to the peculiar constraints that women must overcome to balance the scales in business and society both encouraging and enlightening. She covers a wide range of thought-provoking topics that will keep readers turning the pages for essential knowledge, insights and advice, including, Cultivating a Positive Mindset, Personal Identity: Knowing Yourself, People and Processing, Mastering Execution and Action, Winning on Value Proposition, Discipline in Financial Management, Creating a Culture of Excellence, Mentorship and Networking, Playing to Win, and importantly, Balancing Family and Social Responsibilities. Divine reminds us all that if we dare to step up and step out in order to solve the challenges and problems society faces today, we will find, through good times and bad, wins and losses – fortune favours the brave. Author Quotes It’s been an interesting entrepreneurial journey, and we are still going and still growing, and I believe I have a story to share. Entrepreneurial Success: Growing Business in a Fluid Economy encompasses principles, insights and lessons that I learned over the decades, from starting off as an intrapreneur to becoming an entrepreneur and celebrated CEO of a leading security company that has established a solid footprint within the region. This book is not just about SECURICO but it is also about the lessons I learned on my journey as an intrapreneur and entrepreneur, and it is my desire that these nuggets of insight will help develop the next generation of African leaders in business. As leaders become more seasoned in business, their immediate assignment is to share their experiences with others and groom the next generation of leaders who will lift the continent out of poverty through entrepreneurial solutions. About the author Divine Simbi-Ndhlukula (PhD) is an award-winning Entrepreneur, Speaker, Author and Philanthropist. Founder and Managing Director of Zimbabwe’s first ISO certified security company, SECURICO, as well as Zvikomborero Farms which is known for extensive livestock production, she has been celebrated the world over for her exploits and successes in business. The first woman to successfully venture into the security sector, SECURICO has a staff complement of 4200 employees. Owing to her passion for Women Empowerment, a quarter of the staff comprises women. A widowed mother of 8, a grandmother of 2, Divine is devoted to her siblings and nieces, and counts strong family values as central to the meaning of life and success. www.divinesimbindhlukula.co.zw For International purchases, the book is available online on Amazon. Click here. Source: Entrepreneurial Success: Growing Business in a Fluid Economy by Divine Simbi-Ndhlukula (PhD)  — Lionesses of Africa