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By Ulemu Mbengwani “What do you want to be when you grow up?” This simple question once sparked vivid dreams and ambitious plans. Back then, we shared our career aspirations with unshakable confidence, unaware of the hurdles that lay ahead. Fast forward fifteen, twenty, or even twenty-five years, and many of us, armed with qualifications and high hopes, struggle to find opportunities in a limited job market. The sobering truth is that traditional employment opportunities can no longer accommodate everyone. Increasingly, we are being urged to embrace entrepreneurship, heralded as the solution to youth unemployment. But is this truly a practical path for a generation confronting countless uncertainties? Or is it merely a way to pacify the youth, diverting attention from unmet government job promises? In the final week of 2024, we had the privilege of interacting with Earnest Chapotera, who, alongside four former classmates, Aubrey Kasunda, Lazarus Nkolombizo, Madalitso Kachingwe, and Lucia Nkhoma, founded Infinity Media Group in 2018. At the time, they were in their third year at the University of Malawi, where they studied Media for Development. With offices in Zomba and Mangochi, the company offers creative marketing solutions and stands as a testament to the possibilities of student-driven entrepreneurship. Before graduating in 2019, the group registered the company with the Registrar General, paving the way for immediate operations upon completion of their studies. Among other things, the founders aimed to address the pressing issue of youth unemployment while leveraging their skills to drive positive change in the media industry. “The primary motivation behind establishing the company was to create employment opportunities for ourselves and fellow youths. We also wanted apply the knowledge and skills acquired during our university years, translating theoretical concepts into practical, innovative media solutions” says Chapotera. “The company’s services are a direct reflection of the modules covered during our studies, from first year to fourth year, demonstrating a commitment to harnessing academic expertise for real-world impact” he added. Like many businesses, Infinity Media Group has faced its share of challenges since its inception. From the struggle of securing a suitable office space to navigating the disruptions brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, the company has weathered numerous obstacles. These hurdles, along with the ever-present challenges of operating in a dynamic environment, has undoubtedly shaped the resilience and growth of the business. “Our journey began with very limited financial resources,” shares Chapotera. “Our initial capital came from our monthly student allowances. Everyone was contributing a certain agreed percentage to the company. At that time, our only assets were the knowledge we gained from university and the laptops our families bought for us during our studies.” The team did not have the means to secure a dedicated workspace. Therefore, they leveraged an opportunity that arose from their university IDs still being active valid after graduation in June 2019. “We utilized the university library as our makeshift office, maintaining a routine of visiting the library every morning as if we were still studying. By the time our IDs had expired in December, we had managed to scrape together enough funds to rent a small office space in Zomba, marking a significant milestone in our entrepreneurial journey” said Chapotera. As fresh graduates, they also faced stiff competition and initially struggled to stand out. To overcome this, they focused on being as creative as possible and consistently produce high-quality work. Additionally, they prioritized timely delivery, ensuring their clients could rely on them to meet deadlines. When asked about managing the dynamics of working with friends, Chapotera emphasized that their shared passion has been the driving force behind their collaboration hence they do not really encounter problems because of working in a group. “Disagreements are inevitable, but as a team, we have embraced a democratic approach, allowing the majority’s decision to guide our actions,” he explained. Chapotera further highlighted the importance of mutual respect and understanding within the group. “We recognize that we cannot always think the same way, but we focus on the primary goal of the business rather than personal gain,” he added. Reflecting on the broader context, he noted, “One challenge among us Malawians is the tendency to want to work alone. But in Malawi, it is tough for a fresh graduate to succeed independently, which is why we chose teamwork.” Over the years, the company has made remarkable progress, marked by significant milestones. “We have worked with individuals, companies, organizations, and government agencies that were previously out of reach, which has helped us build a reputable track record. This has also led to the opening of a second office in Mangochi. As of now, we have created five jobs for ourselves and 14 other youths,” Chapotera explains. In addition, the company has upgraded its operations with new equipment, making production smoother and more efficient. According to Chapotera, the machinery they have procured, allows them to produce high-quality products. “Our goal has been to inspire other fresh graduates by showing that entrepreneurship can reduce unemployment and drive success. We are proud to have managed to achieve that goal.” Chapotera concluded by emphasizing that perseverance is key to entrepreneurial success. Giving up must not be an option. Businesses face a lot of challenges, but you should focus on the goal. He also stresses the importance of teamwork, noting that working as a group is so helpful since you motivate each other when facing challenges. “The company is still in its building phase and we remain committed to expanding and creating employment opportunities to our fellow youths across the country. We believe we will continue to grow and inspire others on their entrepreneurial journey” said Chapotera.

By Ulemu Mbengwani For many, going to college is a dream, a symbol of hope and opportunity. In Malawi, this dream carries even greater weight. It represents a rare chance to break cycles of poverty and unlock doors to a brighter future. Yet, the harsh reality is that for most secondary school graduates, this dream remains out of reach. Limited higher education institutions and unaffordable tuition fees make tertiary education a privilege few can afford. But even for those who make it to college, the dream can quickly turn into a nightmare. Each year, stories emerge of young college students taking their own lives, casting a shadow over what should be the most promising chapter of their lives. Suicide cases, though not confined to colleges, are a growing concern nationwide. According to a September 2024 report by the Malawi Police Service, 256 people took their own lives between January and June. While the reasons vary, financial struggles and relationship breakdowns are often cited. Why are young minds, full of potential, succumbing to such despair? What are we missing, and how can we offer support? In response to this issue, Thoko Mthiko, who graduated from the University of Malawi in 2022, has been leading an initiative that provides support to students facing mental health challenges, including those experiencing suicidal thoughts. The genesis of a lifesaving mission In September 2018, he co-founded The Commonwealth Malawi, a youth network that grew to coordinate programs across eight universities and colleges in the country. In 2019, the network adopted Teenage Strategy, initially a music project, which later expanded its focus to address a range of youth-related issues, including identity development and mental well-being. “We initially began as a music project, with my colleague Barnie Michael, a producer and music artist. Over time, our work evolved into this initiative” Mthiko says. The music project was titled Teenage Strategy, and it mainly focused on addressing personal identity development matters.It created a space where all aspects of identity were discussed, allowing participants to address deep-seated personal matters. “Over time, the discussions increasingly focused on mental health, with suicide emerging as a central issue. This eventually led to making suicide prevention one of the key priorities of the initiative,” he explained. Identifying people going through emotional distress and offering support “For the most part, you will not know when someone is breaking until it is too late. It’s a make-up world; a generation for show,” Mthiko explains, reflecting on the challenges of identifying emotional distress. According to him, creating a safe and judgment-free space for people to open up is essential. “I should emphasize, you don’t identify them; they identify you,” he adds. Mthiko’s role as a Christian leader has proven instrumental in fostering trust. With oversight responsibilities in several Christian organizations, he believes his leadership style has helped him connect with people on a deeper level. “This is where the art and science of leadership comes into play. When you go bossing around, people don’t find a confidant in you. But when you are human enough, they find someone who can feel their pain and hear them without judgment,” he shares. The process, he notes, is often organic. The few people he initially supported began referring him to their friends, creating a ripple effect that expanded his reach. Mthiko’s academic background also plays a role in his work. With a minor in Psychology, he has developed an eye for identifying behavioral cues that may indicate depression. “Withdrawal, recklessness, and expressions of hopelessness are a few behavioral cues that can give us a lead. While they are not definitive, they prompt us to create an environment where we can talk to the person in question,” he says. He emphasizes the importance of providing an outlet for people to share their struggles. He believes everyone has a need to be heard and understood without judgment, adding that a lack of this understanding often causes individuals to withdraw. Addressing mental health stigma and expanding support Mthiko highlights the importance of addressing stigma surrounding mental health and suicide. He explains that creating a safe environment where individuals can confide in one another is essential. “Nothing is as healing as creating an environment where people can feel free to confide in one another,” he remarks. He laments society’s tendency to focus solely on the act of suicide, neglecting the internal battles and prolonged struggles that precede it. “We curse, we swear, we call the people who killed themselves names, but no one kills themselves in a day. They battle the thought for some time, weigh alternatives, and sometimes stay with it for a long time before they finally commit suicide. We don’t see all of it. We just see the death part,” he says, calling this reality deeply saddening. Reflecting on universities’ role in reducing suicide rates, Mthiko emphasizes the need for open dialogue and accessible support systems. Drawing from personal experience, he recalls graduating from the University of Malawi without knowing that the Psychology Department offered counseling sessions to students. “We need programs like these to be fully publicized,” he urges. Looking to the future, Mthiko sees opportunities to extend his initiative beyond university students to reach other vulnerable groups. He shares an encounter with a single mother who revealed that a conversation with him saved her life. “That was a pointer to me, single mothers need interventions,” he says. His team is now exploring ways to scale up support for single mothers while expanding efforts to other demographics, including professionals in corporate spaces. Through podcasts and other platforms, they aim to spark meaningful conversations addressing these challenges. Challenges and achievements Mthiko recalls one of his most heartbreaking moments, the loss of a young man who hanged himself. “His death took me back to our finale farewell party,” he says. “He was all smiles, sitting next to my friend, taking selfies. Little did I know that a year later, we would be singing hymn 371, ‘Kwathu Sipadziko,’ at his funeral.” The

By Ulemu Mbengwani Amid the fast-paced demands of modern life, many young professionals find themselves struggling to keep up with the pressures of their careers and personal aspirations. Harold Bowa, understanding the complexities of navigating these challenges, has made it his mission to guide others toward a more intentional and productive life. Through the Personal Productivity Clinic, he offers a structured approach to navigating these challenges, helping individuals take control of their lives with purpose and clarity, for them to achieve their goals without sacrificing their well-being. Nurturing the vision In a world where the quest for direction and meaningful progress is a universal struggle, Harold Bowa saw clearly the distractions that plague today’s youth. Amid the lure of fleeting pleasures, many find themselves adrift, unable to navigate the long-term challenges of life. Through his own journey and research, Bowa discovered a crucial insight: overcoming these obstacles requires more than mere ambition. It demands a clear, purposeful direction and a commitment to productive action. Driven by this realization, Bowa founded the Personal Productivity Clinic. Here, he imparts the tools and techniques that have transformed both his professional and personal life. These methods have not only fueled his career growth but have also helped him maintain a healthy work-life balance, thus preventing burnout. “I am a business development professional, working as a Business Development Officer at UbuntuNet Alliance. I am also an aspiring entrepreneur, author, and company owner. The multifaceted nature of my life made me realize early on that if I am to become the person I aspire to be, I must find a way to efficiently and consistently navigate my way to my goals while also fulfilling my responsibilities at work, at home, and to myself,” Bowa reflects. This realization led him to develop a method to manage this balance. He continues, “The story of Jonah and the whale from the Bible underscores the importance of sharing valuable knowledge with others, which further motivated me to share my insights”. Building a community of leaders The Personal Productivity Clinic is designed to help young professionals transition from a reactive and semi-deliberate lifestyle to one of intentionality and control. As they face the increased responsibilities and expectations that come after graduation, the clinic provides crucial tools for taking charge of their lives. Participants are guided in defining their personal and professional goals, developing actionable strategies to achieve them, and tracking their progress effectively. The central focus of the clinic is maintaining a healthy work-life balance to prevent burnout, making it an essential resource for those aiming to excel in their careers without compromising their well-being. “The clinic also fosters a community of like-minded individuals who are eager to learn, grow, and exchange ideas on productivity and self-improvement. Whether you’re establishing yourself in your industry or passionate about personal growth, the clinic offers the support and structure needed to thrive,” added Bowa. Guided learning and collaborative growth The Personal Productivity Clinic offers a series of structured sessions aimed at providing a comprehensive understanding of key productivity topics. These sessions cover areas such as self-assessment, personal philosophy, goal setting, digital tools, burnout, work-life balance, and common productivity killers. Participants are encouraged to actively engage in their learning journey. As Bowa explains, “Participants have the opportunity to suggest topics and areas they would like to explore and receive assistance with when signing up for the sessions.” The clinic invites participants to approach the ideas presented as students, not followers, allowing them to critically assess and apply the concepts to their own lives. Feedback and future plans Harold Bowa shared that the feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive. Many expressed their appreciation for the ideas shared during and after the sessions, with several highlighting the positive impact the clinic has had on their daily lives. There has also been significant interest from those who missed the session, with many requesting to be included in the next clinic or asking for recordings to be shared. Initially intended as a one-time event, the Personal Productivity Clinic will now continue due to this positive feedback and growing interest. “The course will be refined through ongoing experience, audience feedback, and insights from external sources like books and productivity podcasts,” Bowa explained, emphasizing that the aim is to ensure it provides young professionals with practical tools for success. The clinic will eventually evolve into a comprehensive course that will be available on his website, haroldbowa.com. The vision includes featuring successful young professionals in online sessions to share their productivity techniques, fostering a collaborative environment for knowledge exchange and mutual growth. “The goal is to build a community of young professionals who are serious about achieving their utmost potential by grabbing their own lives by the horns and taking control,” Bowa added, underscoring his ambition to shape a thriving community that leads various industries in Malawi and Africa, guiding the direction of the nation and beyond. Personal insights on productivity Harold Bowa explained that planning is the cornerstone of his productivity. He invests significant time organizing his year, month, week, and day to ensure that each task aligns with his broader goals. His routine is consistently structured, with designated time blocks for waking up, working, eating, and socializing, both on weekdays and weekends. This consistency helps prevent inefficiency and is managed with tools like the Notion app, which he uses for everything from yearly overviews to daily to-do lists. Additionally, he highlighted that physical activity, whether it’s football, basketball, or weightlifting, is essential for relaxation and mental sharpness. When discussing motivation, he acknowledged that it can be fleeting and unreliable as a sole driver of productivity, but when present, it certainly makes things easier. His greatest fear of looking back and realizing he could have done more drives him to reach his full potential. His competitive nature pushes him to be the hardest and smartest worker in the room, and his increasing family responsibilities, particularly as his parents age, further motivate him. On low-motivation days, Bowa relies on his

By Ulemu Mbengwani Meet Elizabeth Ngomano, fondly known as Liz, a University of Malawi graduate, who runs Simply Fancy by Liz, a successful business that she started while still in college. Her journey, from modest beginnings selling second-hand skirts to establishing a diverse business portfolio, demonstrates how graduates can leverage their academic knowledge and personal resilience to build a successful career beyond traditional employment. Liz’s story is a compelling example of how embracing entrepreneurship can transform ambition into a thriving reality. The spark of opportunity Her journey into business began when she was in primary school but truly materialized during her time at the University of Malawi. Admired for her unique skirts, Liz saw an opportunity in the admiration she received. “It all started when people began admiring the skirts I wore,” she recalls. “I saw a chance to turn that admiration into a business.” What began as a simple sale of second-hand skirts evolved into a full-fledged business. Liz expanded her offerings to include brand-new clothes after recognizing the potential for more. “I started ordering clothes from shops and eventually found a supplier from South Africa. This was the turning point for my business,” she says. The entrepreneurial drive didn’t stop there. Observing the popularity of Vans shoes, she diversified her inventory to include them. “Soon, people were placing orders for various items, and I found myself supplying whatever they requested,” she explains. This adaptability and keen observation of market trends were crucial in shaping her business trajectory. In a bid to diversify the business, Liz started traveling to Chipata, Zambia, to buy sausages, thanks to her flexible university schedule. “I would leave at 3 a.m. and return late at night. It was exhausting, but I was determined,” she says. Initially, she used her own funds but later implemented a deposit system to manage cash flow and mitigate risks. “As the business grew, I started asking customers for a deposit. This helped me handle the increasing costs and order in bulk,” she adds. Shifting focus and growing the business After graduating, Liz continued to evolve her business. She quickly learned that staying ahead in the fashion industry was challenging due to rapidly changing trends. “I realized it is impossible to satisfy every customer’s preference. Fashion trends change quickly,” she notes. This led her to narrow her focus to men’s wear, which she found less volatile. She also began exploring new areas, such as home décor and kitchenware, driven by her passion for beautiful interiors. In 2021, she got a job that played a significant role in her business growth. The job, which involved extensive travel across Malawi, provided her with the financial capital needed to invest in her business. “The job introduced me to people I might never have met otherwise and allowed me to save money, which I reinvested into my business,” she explains. The exposure to different interior décor styles during her travels also influenced her decision to expand into this area. Expanding the business and looking ahead With a deeper understanding of her market and a focus on high-quality products, Liz is optimistic about the future. She is now investing time in mastering digital marketing, recognizing the potential to grow her business without needing a physical storefront. “I am focusing on digital marketing to grow my business without needing a physical space,” she shares. Liz has also adapted her business model to emphasize volume over high profits, keeping in mind the economic environment and her customers’ financial situations. “I stay ahead by offering high-quality items at an affordable price, and I understand my customers’ needs very well,” she says. Challenges Liz faces several challenges in her business. One notable issue is that some customers hesitate to pay the remaining balance after receiving their items. She shared a particular instance from her school days when a customer returned a pair of shoes months later, claiming there was an issue. Another challenge is managing customer expectations regarding delivery times. Liz notes that delays between when an order is placed and when items arrive can lead to customer dissatisfaction. “Unfortunately, these delays are often beyond my control, as they are usually due to logistical issues, especially since most of the items are imported,” she explains. Reflecting on mistakes Liz’s journey has not been without missteps. Reflecting on what she wishes she had done differently, she recalls a money-lending venture that did not turn out as planned. “The key lesson I learned was that many people who borrow money with promises of high returns are often in severe financial trouble, making repayment challenging. Additionally, some borrowers are not afraid of other people’s money and are more likely to default,” she says. Advice to other college students Liz offers valuable advice for fellow students considering entrepreneurship. “My advice is to just start with whatever you have. I began by selling second-hand skirts (kaunjika), which didn’t require much capital. As the business grew and people started requesting brand-new clothes, I began asking them to pay a deposit of half the cost upfront. Start with what you have and focus on delivering as promised. Trustworthiness is crucial for business success,” she says. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of leveraging every opportunity. In 2019, while still in college, Liz expanded her business by investing money earned from working as an enumerator for a survey with a certain organization. For those inclined towards traditional employment, she recommends starting preparations while still in college. “Engage in volunteering and training opportunities. Though often overlooked, these experiences are crucial for enhancing your CV, showcasing your abilities, and demonstrating experience beyond academic qualifications,” added Liz. Celebrating success and personal growth One of Liz’s proudest moments came some months ago when she sold 50 carpets in a single week. “It was exhilarating and felt almost surreal. None of the buyers returned with complaints, which speaks volumes about the quality of my products,” she says. In closing Liz explained how entrepreneurship has profoundly changed my self-confidence. “I am now confident