Zodwa Mkandla, affectionately known as “Mai Ginimbi,” is a name synonymous with resilience, vision, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence. Born in Bubi, Matabeleland, Zimbabwe, Zodwa’s early life was shaped by determination and a desire to rise above circumstance.
Her formative years at Mqwassini, followed by secondary education at Mt. Pleasant High School and St. Columbus in Bulawayo, laid the foundation for a woman who would one day transform not only her own life but also the lives of countless others.
Her curiosity and ambition led her to earn a diploma from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), equipping her with the skills to navigate the dynamic world of travel and business.
In 2003, Zodwa’s entrepreneurial spirit blossomed when she founded Traverze Travel, a trailblazing leisure and business travel management company in Zimbabwe.
Under her leadership, Traverze Travel set unprecedented benchmarks, including winning the Fly Emirates Award for best-performing travel agent in Zimbabwe and earning nominations at the World Travel Awards in 2021.
Her vision and dedication also led the company to become the first travel agency in Zimbabwe to own an executive lounge at Harare International Airport, a bold move that redefined the industry standard and showcased her pioneering spirit.
Zodwa’s brilliance has not gone unnoticed. She has been celebrated far and wide for her remarkable contributions to business and tourism. In 2017, she was honored as International Business Woman of the Year at the Women4Africa Awards and recognized among the top 100 women shaping Africa’s tourism and travel sector.
Her accolades continued with the Outstanding Woman CEO of the Year award at the Megafest Women’s Awards in 2018, and she was named Tourism & Hospitality Businesswoman of the Year at the Zimbabwe Leadership Awards in 2017. Each award tells a story of perseverance, vision, and the courage to lead with purpose.
Beyond her professional achievements, Zodwa’s heart beats with generosity. Through the Zodwa Mkandla Foundation, she empowers women and youth across Zimbabwe, creating opportunities, nurturing talent, and inspiring hope.
Her philanthropic work mirrors the values she holds dear: upliftment, empowerment, and the belief that true leadership transforms communities.
Zodwa Mkandla’s journey, from a determined young girl in Matabeleland to a celebrated entrepreneur, philanthropist, and icon, is a story of inspiration.
It is a testament to what can be achieved when courage meets vision, and passion meets purpose. She is a woman who not only thrives in her own right but also lights the path for others to follow, leaving a legacy of empowerment, leadership, and hope.
