We s a t down with Zoe Hope Chundam a

A Zambian business woman who got her Honors degree in Business Management and Marketing from the Namibian University of Science and Technology (NUST) and is now running 2 successful clothing stores (Grab Denim and Grab Clothing) and a logistics company. She also aims to help young girls make informed and effective decisions with their financial resources through her foundation called the “Grab Foundation Zambia”

Zoe loves being an entrepreneur because it's a space of endless growth, learning, and discovery. It's a world with no boundaries where she gets to connect with different people daily and share her knowledge. What truly fuels her passion is the impact she makes on the community through job creation. Being an entrepreneur empowers not only her but also those around her. And to top it all off, she gets to do what she's genuinely passionate about.

The idea for GRAB Clothing, Zoe’s thriving thrift (salaula) store, sparked from a gap she noticed in most clothing stores, especially in the denim section. She wanted to offer people a sustainable and cost-effective shopping experience while simultaneously helping the environment by promoting clothing reuse. Their motto, #Whosaidthriftcantbechic, challenges the stigma surrounding thrifted fashion. Starting her business was surprisingly straightforward. By simply looking into your closet, you might find items that no longer fit. Snap a picture, create a page, and you've got yourself a thrift store!

She pursued a degree in Business Management at the University of Science and Technology in Namibia. When asked about the value of education versus experience in her career, she emphasizes that both are equally valuable and go hand in hand. Education provides a foundation, but it's the real-world experience that truly enhances her entrepreneurial journey.

In the world of entrepreneurship, there's no magic formula or specific qualifications required to start a business. Instead, Zoe emphasizes the importance of certain skills. Thinking on your feet, managing finances, and effective communication are essential, but above all, impeccable customer service is the key.

The best career decision she’s ever made was leaving her previous job to become an entrepreneur. She wanted to pursue something she genuinely enjoyed. Since starting her business, she has successfully explored and monetized her talents. Her only regret is not jumping into entrepreneurship sooner. She wishes she hadn't made excuses and had started earlier.

For SKY girls aspiring to follow in her footsteps, she emphasizes the power of knowledge, recommending studying a business-related course if you plan to attend university. Self-awareness is key to understand your strengths, weaknesses, and align them with your passion. And most importantly, don't hesitate to start; take that first step towards your entrepreneurial dreams.

MY thing

Fashion, Finance, Graphic Design my thing

Negativity, Procrastination, Dependency

Two quotes that motivate Zoe are: "Nothing will work unless you do," by Mother Teresa, which reminds her that change starts with action, and "Don't let someone else's opinion of you become your reality," by Les Brown, which encourages her to stay true to herself. Zoe draws inspiration from her mother, who, due to her father's health issues, had to take on a significant share of responsibilities. Witnessing her mother's determination and resourcefulness taught her invaluable lessons about what it takes to succeed.

In her downtime, Zoe is currently engrossed in "Wild Embers" by Nikita Gill, a book that emphasizes not comparing oneself and one's journey. She also recommends "The Prettiest, You're Not a Member" by Brigit Young to teen girls seeking inspiration.

To improve career prospects, she suggests getting creative by finding a unique market gap. Seek a mentor if possible; their guidance can be invaluable. Additionally, volunteer work is an excellent way to network and enhance your skill set.

Zoe’s an active member of SHE Entrepreneurship and KUPES Young Women's Network, connecting with fellow entrepreneurs and like-minded individuals.

Her journey from student to thriving businesswoman is an inspiration for teen girls who aspire to make a mark in the business world. She reminds us that with the right mix of passion, knowledge, and determination, anyone can turn their dreams into reality. So, what are you waiting for? It's time to grab hold of your dreams and start your own entrepreneurial adventure!

Keep up with Ms. Chundama: @Grab.zm @Grab.thriftzm @Grab_logistics.zm @Grab_foundation.zm