Strive Masiyiwa’s story is one of perseverance, innovation, and a commitment to using technology to empower millions of lives across Africa.
Known as one of the continent’s most influential entrepreneurs, Strive’s journey has been marked by trailblazing efforts in telecommunications and beyond, and his impact extends far beyond business—he is a philanthropist, a visionary, and a force for change.
Born in 1961 in what is now Zimbabwe, Strive Masiyiwa’s path to success wasn’t easy.
Raised in a time of political and economic instability, Strive faced numerous challenges in his early years.
However, his belief in the power of education and his relentless determination set him apart.
He pursued his studies in electrical engineering, which laid the groundwork for his future ventures in technology.
Strive’s rise to prominence began with the founding of Econet Wireless in 1998, a telecommunications company that would go on to revolutionize mobile communications across Africa.
At the time, Africa’s telecommunications industry was limited, with few people having access to mobile phones or the internet.
Strive’s vision was clear: to create a platform that would connect people across the continent, empower businesses, and provide millions of Africans with the ability to communicate, access information, and create new opportunities.
Econet faced its fair share of hurdles. From fierce competition to navigating regulatory roadblocks, Strive’s journey was far from smooth.
But through determination and an unwavering belief in his vision, he pushed forward, breaking barriers and ultimately launching one of Africa’s largest and most successful telecommunications companies.
His work didn’t just change the way people communicated—it opened doors to countless opportunities, from mobile banking to e-commerce, education, and healthcare.
Yet Strive’s impact goes far beyond Econet. His philanthropic efforts are equally remarkable.
Through his Higherlife Foundation, Strive has invested millions of dollars into education, health care, and other initiatives aimed at lifting up Africa’s youth.
He has sponsored thousands of students’ education across the continent, providing scholarships and opportunities that might otherwise have been out of reach.
Strive’s belief in the power of young people to drive Africa’s future is at the heart of his charitable work.
Throughout his career, Strive has also become a key advocate for African entrepreneurship, often speaking out about the importance of investing in technology and innovation to drive Africa’s growth.
He has mentored countless young entrepreneurs, encouraging them to take risks, be resilient, and remain steadfast in their pursuit of success.
Strive Masiyiwa’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of Africa’s most successful entrepreneurs is a testament to what’s possible with hard work, vision, and a passion for making a difference.
His contributions to Africa’s digital revolution and his philanthropic endeavors continue to inspire millions of Africans and entrepreneurs around the world.
Through his work, Strive is not just building businesses—he is helping to shape Africa’s future, one innovation at a time.
