With the Afropreneur summit in Perth, Australia just hours away, I found myself reflecting on my journey to this moment right here. I will be speaking at the summit, talking to other entrepreneurs who have gone through various hurdles to establish businesses and ventures. I thought, it would be interesting to write about my own journey and hopefully inspire someone along the way.
Moving to the diaspora is a journey filled with hope, challenges, and nostalgia. For many of us, it’s a quest for better opportunities and a brighter future. My journey began in the vibrant streets of Mbare, Zimbabwe, and has taken me through South Africa to Australia, with each step shaping my entrepreneurial spirit.
A bit of Background
Growing up in Mbare, I was surrounded by the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The streets were alive with vendors, community gatherings, and the relentless determination of families striving to make ends meet. My parents taught me the value of hard work and resilience. Watching my mother sell vegetables at the market or my father doing the clerical work and then selling at the bus terminus and street corners instilled in me an entrepreneurial spirit. Watching my mother interact with customers taught me the importance of building relationships. It wasn’t just about selling; it was about connecting with people. I was not born with a silver spoon in my mouth but the circumstances that surrounded my upbringing were just what I needed to become the man that I am today.
These experiences laid the foundation for my future. I learned early on that success requires grit, adaptability, and the support of a community. Little did I know that these lessons would guide me through the challenges ahead.
Moving to South Africa in Search of better opportunities.
In search of better opportunities, I made the move to South Africa. The transition was both exciting and daunting. I faced cultural differences and the realities of being an outsider, but I was determined to succeed. I started small, taking on various jobs while exploring business opportunities.
In South Africa, I connected with other Zimbabweans, and together we formed a support network. These friendships provided encouragement and inspiration, reminding me that we were all navigating similar paths. My entrepreneurial journey began to take shape as I identified gaps in the market, leveraging my experiences from home.
A new chapter in Australia
Eventually, I found myself in Australia, where the landscape was vastly different yet equally promising. The challenges of adapting were real, but I was fueled by the desire to create a life for my children and myself. I drew upon my roots and the resilience I had cultivated over the years.
It was during this time that I ventured into farming, reconnecting with my agricultural heritage. I began to explore the potential of sustainable farming practices, focusing on the importance of food security and community empowerment. My experiences in Mbare influenced my approach, and I aimed to bring those values into my new endeavours.
With a growing passion for independence and the need to build an inheritance for my children while making an impact, I founded TGC Group. This company manages a fleet of over 1,000 vehicles and machines within the greater Perth area and beyond. TGC Group specialises in everything farming, promoting sustainable farming practices, and offering coaching and speaking services.
The journey wasn’t without its challenges. Establishing TGC Group required navigating regulatory hurdles and securing funding. There were moments of doubt, particularly during tough financial periods. However, I drew strength from my upbringing in Mbare, where resilience was a way of life. Each setback became a lesson, teaching me the importance of perseverance and adaptability.
I also established TGC Consultancy, which offers guidance to aspiring farmers and businesses in Zimbabwe and beyond through mentorship and training. TGC Consultancy focuses on coaching and speaking, aiming to encourage and motivate upcoming entrepreneurs.
These businesses became more than just a means of income; they represented my commitment to giving back to my community in Zimbabwe I wanted to support local farmers and create opportunities for those who, like me, had faced challenges.
Hearing from those I’ve impacted has been incredibly rewarding. One participant in my coaching program shared, “Your guidance helped me see my potential. I now run my own successful business, and I’m giving back to my community.” Stories like these inspire me to continue my work and reach more people.
Throughout my journey, I faced personal challenges, including going through a divorce. Balancing the demands of single parenthood with my entrepreneurial ambitions was tough, but I remained focused on providing for my children. My experiences taught me the importance of resilience and adaptability, qualities I hope to instill in them.
As my businesses flourished, I felt a calling to share my story through public speaking. This platform allowed me to connect with others and inspire them to pursue their dreams. I’ve spoken to various audiences, sharing insights on entrepreneurship and resilience. Every time I see someone in the audience light up with hope, I am reminded of the power of storytelling.
Additionally, I explored other business opportunities, leveraging my skills and experiences to create value in new areas. Each venture became a testament to the resilience of the African spirit, reminding me that we can rise above challenges and create meaningful change.
Conclusion: Your Story Matters
My journey from Mbare to the diaspora and back home is a testament to the strength and resilience of the African spirit. It’s a story of overcoming challenges, embracing opportunities, and remaining connected to my roots.
To my fellow Africans in the diaspora: our journeys may be different, but we share a common thread of resilience and hope. Embrace your path, celebrate your identity, and remember that your story can inspire others. Together, we can build thriving communities and honour our rich heritage while forging a brighter future.
I invite you to share your own stories of resilience and entrepreneurship. Together, we can inspire one another and build a supportive community. If you’re looking for mentorship or simply want to connect, reach out. Let’s empower each other to forge a brighter future!
Cheers to us Afropreneurs
Reg
Valley Of Potential 