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Masvingo is gearing up for an inspiring and impactful gathering as the “Brunch and Business: Connecting Opportunities” event takes place on February 7th, 2025, at the Urban Lifestyle Conference Centre. This prestigious event will bring together some of Zimbabwe’s most accomplished business leaders, policymakers, and innovators for a day of transformative conversations and networking opportunities. Headlining the event is Dr. Divine Simbi-Ndhlukula, a name synonymous with excellence in business and agriculture, who has solidified her legacy as one of Zimbabwe’s most prominent figures on the global stage. As the Founder and Managing Director of SECURICO and Zvikomborero Farms, Dr. Divine has not only revolutionized Zimbabwe’s security industry but has also made significant strides in agriculture, becoming a beacon of hope and empowerment for many. From humble beginnings, she built SECURICO at her kitchen table with just three employees. Today, it stands as one of Zimbabwe’s largest security firms, employing over 4,200 people and setting international standards through ISO certification. In the agricultural sector, her contributions continue to reshape the landscape, reinforcing her status as a visionary leader in both fields. Dr. Divine’s achievements have earned her widespread recognition and respect. She was named Forbes Africa Businesswoman of the Year (2019), received the EY World Entrepreneur Award Southern Africa (2014), and was recognized among the UNCTAD/Empretec Top Ten Global Women in Business. Her influence extends far beyond Zimbabwe, with her induction into the JA International Global Business Hall of Fame (2021) and numerous other accolades, including the African Leadership Legend Award (2021) and the Commendation Hero Medal for her contributions to Zimbabwe’s economy. The event will also celebrate a significant milestone for Masvingo Province: the appointment of Commissioner Stern Kondongwe as Commissioner of the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS). This momentous occasion will be graced by Dr. Moses Chihobvu, the Commissioner General of ZPCS, who will serve as the guest of honor. Hon. Ezra Chadzamira, Masvingo’s Resident Minister, will also attend, underscoring the event’s importance to the province. Adding to the distinguished lineup of speakers is Mr. Sifiso Mahlangu, Managing Director of NBS Bank, who will share his expertise on banking and investment, highlighting strategies for fostering sustainable economic growth. This gathering comes at a pivotal time for Masvingo, as the government has recently approved the Tugwi-Mukosi Master Plan. This ambitious development blueprint is set to unlock vast opportunities in agriculture, tourism, and renewable energy, making Masvingo a hub for investment and growth. The Brunch and Business event promises to be more than just a networking platform; it is a celebration of Masvingo’s brightest minds and boldest ambitions. With Dr. Divine Simbi-Ndhlukula setting the tone for empowerment and excellence, attendees can expect to be inspired by her story and her commitment to driving transformation on both a local and global scale. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and be part of shaping Masvingo’s future. For registrations, partnerships, and inquiries, contact +263773549575 or +263719549575, or email shekinahmedia36@gmail.com. Spaces are limited, so book your seat today and join this transformative journey. Source GZTimeshttps://www.gztimes.co.zw/2025/01/divine-ndhlukula-to-speak-at-masvingo.html

The global security sector has long been plagued by two persistent challenges- a lack of professionalism and inclusivity. Globally, private security services often fail to meet international standards, compromising trust and safety. Simultaneously, the industry has been predominantly male-dominated, offering limited opportunities for women to participate or thrive. These issues are glaring in Zimbabwe, with the added challenge of high unemployment rates among women. But Divine Ndhlukula has created a change that would elevate the country’s security industry standards and foster gender equality. She established Securico, a company that has redefined excellence in security services while empowering women on an unprecedented scale. In 1998, Divine Ndhlukula founded Securico to meet Zimbabwe’s security needs; in the process, she provided more employment opportunities for women. It began as a small startup operating at her cottage with just three employees. Driven by her determination to address Zimbabwe’s lack of professional and ethical security solutions, Ndhlukula built a company grounded in integrity, efficiency, and customer-centricity. The company was the first in Zimbabwe to achieve ISO certification, a global acknowledgement of quality and professionalism. Securico has earned clients’ trust, combining manned guarding services, electronic security solutions, and cash management expertise from multinational corporations to local businesses. Securico ‘s focus on excellence has not only transformed the security system in Zimbabwe but has also placed it on the global stage as a model of professionalism. The company’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its client retention, with 67% of business coming from existing clients, indicating high satisfaction and trust. While its commitment to raising industry standards is commendable, its most significant impact lies in its role as a driver of gender inclusivity. Recognising the barriers women face in male-dominated industries, Divine Ndhlukula made it her mission to empower women within her organisation. Today, Securico is the second-largest employer of women in Zimbabwe, after the government, with women comprising a significant number of its workforce. The company has grown to employ over 4,000 individuals, with more than 900 being women, making it the largest private employer of women in Zimbabwe outside the civil service. From frontline security officers to managerial roles, women have found a supportive environment where they can develop their skills, advance their careers, and gain financial independence. Securico invests heavily in training and mentorship programs, ensuring women have the technical expertise and leadership skills necessary to excel. This approach has transformed the lives of individual employees and inspired systemic change, challenging societal norms and proving that women can thrive in any field. The company has contributed to reducing poverty and improving the livelihoods of countless families in Zimbabwe. Furthermore, its emphasis on professionalism has raised the standards of the security industry, instilling confidence in both local and international clients.  Through Securico, Divine Ndhlukula demonstrates that African women can excel in fields traditionally dominated by men and set world-class standards. Source: https://thebenchmark.com.ng

Top security company Securico hosted its inaugural charity golf day as part of its 25th-anniversary celebrations and raise funds to support marginalized rural learners in Gutu at Country Club Golf Course last week. At least 130 golfers participated in the oversubscribed event which carried the theme ‘swinging for impact.’ All the funds raised from the event will be used to support the Mbuya Mary Simbi Library initiative which was established in 2020, in Gutu as well as the newly opened computer lab at the same institution. Speaking at the prize-giving ceremony, founder and managing director of Securico Security Divine Simbi Ndhlukula expressed delight at the success of the charity event “From what I understand this is one of the best tournaments this club had over a long time. Our sponsors, I will not be able to mention you all by name, but I want to thank you because you understood the cause. You understood the reason why you had to support this tournament because you also want to help bridge the gap between one girl or boy in Tsholotsho, Muzarabani, and Gutu to be at the same level with a boy who is in the city or developed countries like Italy and Germany,” Simbi Ndhlukula said. “You will find that in these disadvantaged communities, there are kids who do not even know what a computer is but this has been made possible by your generosity. “We will be inviting you all to the commissioning of the connectivity in Gutu. There is a young man by the name of Tanaka from Zambezi Ark Technologies, I just met him not so long ago maybe two or three months ago at the British embassy where we were asked to mentor upcoming entrepreneurs. We are working with him and he will train the young learners in Gutu to make solar lanterns from recycled bottles. “I would like to urge those who want to replicate what we are doing in their rural communities to come talk to us and we are always ready to help,” she added. The Mbuya Mary Simbi Library was named after Simbi Ndhlukula’s mother. At least eight schools and 4,000 students are benefitting from the initiative. The men’s competition was won by Clemence Mlambo who is sponsored by Trendy Threads while young female golfer Sharmain Mhundwa from Borrowdale Brooke Golf Club won the women’s section. Some of the corporate sponsors who are set to participate in the initiative of empowering rural education include EcoCash Zimbabwe, ZB Financial Holdings, Maisha, Croco Motors, Premier Corporate Gifts, Delta Beverages, Zimtile, Firstlink Insurance Brokers, Cell Insurance Zimbabwe, Generation Health, Zimplats and Alpha Media Holdings. Sourse: The Independant

Zimbabwe, a nation known for its resilience and entrepreneurial spirit, boasts a cadre of remarkable women who have defied the odds to achieve success in the world of business. From pioneering ventures in various industries to breaking barriers and inspiring future generations, these women have left an indelible mark on Zimbabwe’s business landscape. Here are some of Zimbabwe’s most successful businesswomen and their inspiring stories of triumph: 1. Divine Ndhlukula – Founder of SECURICO Divine Ndhlukula is a trailblazer in Zimbabwe’s security industry and the founder of SECURICO, one of the country’s leading security companies. Starting with just four employees in 1998, Ndhlukula’s vision and determination have propelled SECURICO to become a multimillion-dollar enterprise with a workforce of over 5,000 employees. Her commitment to excellence and innovation has earned her numerous accolades, including being named one of Forbes Africa’s most powerful women. Continue Reading

Prominent philanthropist and award-winning businesswoman Divine Simbi Ndhlukula has unveiled a state-of-the-art computer lab and library programme at Makudo Business Centre in Gutu. More than 4 000 primary school pupils from the district are expected to benefit from the Mbuya Mary Simbi (MMS) Library. The unveiling of the computer lab at the weekend coincided with Securico’s International Women’s Day (IWD) 2024 celebration, further emphasising the company’s commitment to empowering communities, particularly women and girls, through education and technology. Recognising the importance of bridging the digital divide, Dr Ndhlukula set a key goal to develop a computer lab within the library premises. The first of its kind in the district, the computer lab will service several schools in Gutu. At the launch of her debut book, “Entrepreneurial Success: Insights on Growing Business in a Fluid Economy” in February, Dr Ndhlukula committed to raise funds for the realisation of her dream of this computer lab for rural learners. An auction was held and some notable individuals’ like West Property chief executive Ken Sharpe, Gloria Zvaravanhu and Emilia Chisango pledged towards the first hardware for the lab. The weekend’s event witnessed a gathering of key figures from both the public and private sectors, united in their commitment to advance education and technology access in rural Gutu. Officiating at the event, the Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Minister Tatenda Mavetera underscored the importance of collaborative efforts between Government entities, community leaders, and private enterprises in addressing the challenges faced by undeserved communities. She reaffirmed the ministry’s unwavering support for the lab, emphasising that the initiative was in line with the Government’s digitilisation agenda. Dr Ndhlukula said she decided to invest in the computer lab to bridge the digital divide between the rural and urban students. “Within the Mbuya Mary Simbi Library and Lab hangs a colossal world map, inspiring learners  to dream expansively, transcending the boundaries of their immediate reality. The many books within will undoubtedly propel their minds towards a brighter tomorrow. “Now, these young minds can envision a future that extends beyond the confines of their immediate surroundings. In hindsight, I owe my greatest gifts — love, industry, and a passion for books — to my parents. ‘‘Books, the gateway to uncharted worlds for those who dare to dream, empowered me to stand before diverse audiences, to lead experts, and to champion my business.” Other notable guests among them Masvingo Provincial Education director, district and area schools inspectors, Chief Chitsa and representatives from The United Nations Development Programme, attended the event.

Prominent philanthropist and award-winning businesswoman Divine Simbi Ndhlukula unveiled a state-of-the-art computer lab and library programme at Makudo Business Centre in rural Gutu at the weekend. More than 4 000 primary school pupils from the district are expected to benefit from the Mbuya Mary Simbi (MMS) Library. The unveiling of the computer lab coincided with Securicos’s International Women’s Day (IWD) 2024 celebration, further emphasizing the company’s commitment to empower communities, particularly women and girls, through education and technology. Recognizing the importance of bridging the digital divide, Dr Ndhlukula set a key goal to develop a computer lab within the library premises. The first of its kind in the district, the computer lab will service several schools in Gutu. At the launch of her debut book, “Entrepreneurial Success: Insights on Growing Business in a Fluid Economy” in February, Dr Ndhlukula committed to raise funds for the realisation of her long held dream of this computer lab for rural learners. An auction was held and some notable individuals’ like West Property chief executive Ken Sharpe ,Gloria Zvaravanhu and Emilia Chisango rose to the occasion pledging towards the first hardware for the construction of the lab. The weekend’s event witnessed a distinguished gathering of key figures from both the public and private sectors, united in their commitment to advance education and technology access in rural Gutu. Officiating at the event, The Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services, Dr Tatenda Mavetera underscored the importance of collaborative efforts between government entities, community leaders, and private enterprises in addressing the challenges faced by underserved communities. She reaffirmed the ministry’s unwavering support for the lab, emphasising that the lab initiative was in line with the Government’s digitilisation agenda. Speaking at the event, Dr Ndhlukula said she decided to invest in the computer lab to bridge the digital technical divide between the rural and urban students. “Within the Mbuya Mary Simbi Library and Lab hangs a colossal world map, inspiring students to dream expansively, transcending the boundaries of their immediate reality. The many books within will undoubtedly propel their minds towards a brighter tomorrow. “Now, these young minds can envision a future that extends beyond the confines of their immediate surroundings. In hindsight, I owe my greatest gifts — love, industry, and a passion for books — to my parents. Books, the gateway to uncharted worlds for those who dare to dream, empowered me to stand before diverse audiences, to lead experts, and to champion my business. Other notable guests among them Masvingo Provincial Education Director, district and area schools inspectors, Chief Chitsa and representatives from The United Nations Development Programme, attended the event. The Herald

Important businesswoman inaugurates computer laboratory and library in the rural area of ​​Gutu Gutu, Zimbabwe – March 23, 2024 Divine Simbi Ndhlukula, a leading philanthropist and award-winning businesswoman, launched a state-of-the-art computer lab and library program at the Makudo Business Center in rural Gutu, which also houses Ndhlukula. This innovative initiative marks an important milestone in the advancement of education and access to technology in the region. The launch event took place on Saturday, March 23 at the Mbuya Mary Simbi (MMS) Library in Makudo, Gutu. Notably, this initiative coincided with SECURICO’s celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD) 2024, further emphasizing its commitment to empowering communities, particularly women and girls, through education and technology. In 2021, the MMS Library was inaugurated as a beacon of knowledge and learning in the rural community of Gutu. Recognizing the importance of bridging the digital divide, Dr Divine Simbi Ndhlukula set a key goal of developing a computer lab within the library premises. This visionary initiative marks an important milestone as the computer lab is the first of its kind in the district. Its establishment aims to serve seven primary and secondary schools, providing students with access to digital resources and tools for their academic journey. The development of the MMS Library and Computer Laboratory Program in rural Gutu has been a collaborative effort, with contributions from both individuals and organizations dedicated to promoting education and access to technology in the region. At the launch of her debut book “Entrepreneurial Success: Insights on Growing Business in a Fluid Economy” in February, Dr. Divine pledged to raise funds to make her long-held dream of a computer lab for rural students in her home a reality. hometown. . An auction was held and some notable people like Ken Sharpe, Gloria Zvaravanhu, Emilia Chisango and others rose to the occasion, who in turn helped with the hardware. investment. Part of the profits from the book are channeled to the Divine Simbi Ndhlukula Foundation, which was instrumental in the creation of the library 3 years ago. SECURICO has also been a great benefactor of this initiative, supporting the library’s infrastructure as well as the human resources costs to hire a librarian, among other necessary resources. Your support underscores the collective commitment to creating a culture of learning and knowledge sharing within the community, as well as closing the digital divide in rural communities. Dr. Divine Simbi-Ndhlukula expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of support and emphasized that the proceeds from her book will be channeled to help the less privileged. The lab’s launch event saw a distinguished gathering of key figures from the public and private sectors, united in their commitment to promoting education and access to technology in rural areas. Among the notable attendees was the Minister of Information and Communications Technology, Postal and Courier Services, Hon. Dr. Tatenda Mavetera (MP); Masvingo Provincial Director of Education Shylette Mhike. Education officials from the district and area schools, the local community leader, Chief Chitsa, representatives from the United Nations Development Programme, the Divine Network and many friends of the MMS Library. Their presence underscored the importance of collaborative efforts between government entities, community leaders, and private businesses to address the challenges facing underserved communities. Additionally, the event featured enlightening speeches from Ms. Emilia Chisango, who emphasized the role of education and technology in advancing the community, and Ms. Elizabeth Magaya, who eloquently addressed the topic “Inspiring Inclusion.” for International Women’s Day 2024. This initiative exemplifies the power of partnerships in creating a more equitable and digitally literate society, ultimately paving the way to a better future for Gutu youth. During her speech at the event, Dr. Divine Simbi Ndhlukula articulated her vision on the transformative impact of donation on the community. With sincere conviction, she highlighted the profound value of reading and access to knowledge in shaping the future of Gutu’s youth. Ndhlukula added: “Inside the Mbuya Mary Simbi Library and Laboratory hangs a colossal world map, inspiring students to dream widely, transcending the limits of their immediate reality. The numerous books contained within will undoubtedly propel your minds towards a brighter tomorrow. Now, these young minds can imagine a future that extends beyond the limits of their immediate environment. In retrospect, I owe my greatest gifts: love, industriousness, and passion for books to my parents. Books, the gateway to unexplored worlds for those who dare to dream, allowed me to present to diverse audiences, lead experts and defend my business.” She said. News Skin Online

Gutu, Zimbabwe – March 23 2024 Divine Simbi Ndhlukula, a prominent philanthropist and award-winning businesswoman unveiled a state-of-the-art computer lab and library programme, at Makudo Business Center in rural Gutu which is also home to Ndhlukula. This groundbreaking initiative marks a significant milestone in advancing education and technology access in the region. The launch event happened on Saturday, March 23, at the Mbuya Mary Simbi (MMS) Library in Makudo, Gutu. Notably, this initiative coincided with SECURICO’s International Women’s Day (IWD) 2024 celebration, further emphasizing its commitment to empowering communities, particularly women and girls, through education and technology. In 2021, the MMS Library was inaugurated as a beacon of knowledge and learning in the rural Gutu community. Recognizing the importance of bridging the digital divide, Dr. Divine Simbi Ndhlukula set a key goal to develop a computer lab within the library premises. This visionary initiative marks a significant milestone, with the computer lab being the first of its kind in the district. Its establishment aims to serve seven primary and secondary schools, equipping students with access to digital resources and tools for their academic journey. The development of the MMS Library and Computer Lab Programme in rural Gutu has been a collaborative effort, with contributions from both individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing education and technology access in the region. At the launch of her debut book “Entrepreneurial Success: Insights on Growing Business in a Fluid Economy” in February, Dr. Divine committed to raising funds for the realization of her long-held dream of a computer lab for rural learners in her home village. An auction was held and some notable individuals like Ken Sharpe, Gloria Zvaravanhu, Emilia Chisango, and others rose to the occasion which in turn assisted with the hardware investment. Part of the profits of the book are channeled to the Divine Simbi Ndhlukula Foundation which was instrumental in setting up the library 3 years ago. SECURICO has also been a big benefactor to this initiative as they supported the library infrastructure as well as the human resource costs of employing a librarian, among other needed resources. Their support underscores the collective commitment to creating a culture of learning and knowledge-sharing within the community as well as bridging the digital divide in rural communities. The lab launch event witnessed a distinguished gathering of key figures from both the public and private sectors, united in their commitment to advancing education and technology access in rural areas. Among the notable attendees were The Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services-Hon. Dr. Tatenda Mavetera (MP); The Masvingo Provincial Education Director Shylette Mhike. District Education and Area Schools officials, local community leadership Chief Chitsa, representatives from The United Nations Development Programme, the Divine Network, and many friends of the MMS Library. Their presence underscored the importance of collaborative efforts between government entities, community leaders, and private enterprises in addressing the challenges faced by underserved communities. Additionally, the event featured insightful speeches from Ms. Emilia Chisango, who emphasized the role of education and technology in community advancement, and Ms. Elizabeth Magaya, who eloquently addressed the theme of “Inspire Inclusion” for International Women’s Day 2024 This initiative exemplifies the power of partnerships in creating a more equitable and digitally literate society, ultimately paving the way for a brighter future for the youth of Gutu. During her address at the event, Dr. Divine Simbi Ndhlukula articulated her vision for the transformative impact of donation on the community. With heartfelt conviction, she highlighted the profound value of reading and access to knowledge in shaping the future of the youth in Gutu. Ndhlukula added, “Within the Mbuya Mary Simbi Library and Lab hangs a colossal world map, inspiring students to dream expansively, transcending the boundaries of their immediate reality. The many books within will undoubtedly propel their minds towards a brighter tomorrow. Now, these young minds can envision a future that extends beyond the confines of their immediate surroundings. In hindsight, I owe my greatest gifts – love, industry, and a passion for books to my parents. Books, the gateway to uncharted worlds for those who dare to dream, empowered me to stand before diverse audiences, to lead experts, and to champion my business.” She said. Zimeye