By Ulemu Mbengwani
There is a well-known African proverb that says, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” It is a powerful reminder of the value of collaboration and community. While individual efforts may bring quick wins, it is often teamwork that leads to lasting and meaningful progress.
Yet, as ideal as working together sounds, the reality is that it can be incredibly challenging. This is why it is always intriguing to see how teams that successfully run a business together navigate the complexities of shared leadership and collective decision-making.
One such story is that of Spark DeLight, a soap and detergent manufacturing business founded by Victor Daffrece. Together with a group of friends, he has built a business that is solving real problems, creating jobs, and growing alongside the people it serves.
Spark DeLight’s journey began in 2019, sparked by Victor’s passion for solving everyday problems that affect health and hygiene. At the time, he was looking for practical ways to make a difference in his community, especially in areas where quality cleaning products were either too expensive or simply unavailable.
“I saw a gap in affordable and quality cleaning products in my community, and that is when I decided to create Spark DeLight,” he says.
What started as a solo effort gradually transformed into something bigger. As interest in the products grew, so did Victor’s vision. He saw an opportunity not only to meet a need but also to empower others, especially young people with energy, ideas, and the willingness to learn.
“As the business grew, I brought in a small team of passionate and skilled individuals who shared my vision. We are now six members strong, each playing a role in making Spark DeLight what it is today,” he adds.
The journey to build Spark DeLight started humbly, with personal savings and small contributions from close friends who believed in the vision. Soon, he began applying for grants and was fortunate to win support. Since then, Spark DeLight has been marked by remarkable achievements.
“Some of the highlights include being selected for the Mandela Washington Fellowship 2025, winning the National Product Magazine Award, securing grants like the $2,500 Technology Transfer Fund and $5,000 Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) Seed Capital, and being featured on national TV.”
“We were also nominated for awards like Founder of the Year (FOYA) and Forbes Africa Under 30. And of course, we’ve grown our brand to be recognized across Malawi,” he says.
The road for Spark DeLight has not always been easy. One of the biggest challenges they faced was limited production capacity. As demand grew, they struggled to keep up because they lacked modern equipment and had to rely on manual processes most of the time. Victor explains that overcoming these hurdles required persistence and creativity. “We kept applying for grants and made the most of the resources we had,” he says.
The most important lesson from this experience, Victor notes, is to start small but stay consistent. “Opportunities come when you prove your commitment.”
On teamwork, Victor says the strength of Spark DeLight lies in the team’s ability to work with a shared sense of purpose. While challenges are inevitable, they have learned to rely on one another, combining their skills and experiences to keep the business moving forward.
The team operates like a close-knit family where everyone knows their role and values each other’s unique strengths. Open communication is their foundation. They hold regular meetings to stay aligned and keep projects moving forward.
“Of course, like any team, we have had disagreements,” Victor says. “Usually about strategy or timelines. But what matters is how we handle them. We take the time to listen, understand different views, and remind ourselves of the bigger goal we all share.”
When asked how they stay ahead of the competition, especially in an industry with well-established players and imported soaps, Victor was clear about their approach.
“We focus on quality, affordability, and a strong local identity. Our products are made for Malawians, by Malawians, and we are constantly innovating. For example, we plan to launch cancer-preventive and eco-friendly soaps. We also offer great customer service and stay close to our clients through feedback and community engagement.”
This commitment to understanding their customers and delivering products that meet their needs keeps Spark DeLight competitive and relevant in a crowded market. Victor believes that staying true to their roots while embracing innovation is key to the company’s continued growth and impact.
His advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is clear and encouraging: “Start where you are with what you have. Don’t wait for perfect conditions. Stay focused, learn as much as you can, and apply for opportunities. There is always a way if you stay committed.”
Reflecting on his journey, Victor acknowledges the challenges but underscores the value of entrepreneurship. “It isn’t easy, but it’s worth it. You grow as a person, you impact lives, and you create something bigger than yourself. I believe young people in Malawi and beyond have what it takes to build solutions for their communities.”
Looking ahead, Spark DeLight has ambitious plans to expand production with better machinery and a conveyor system. They aim to build a research and innovation hub, launch a biogas project using waste, and train youth in industrial chemistry. The company also plans to start exporting its products across the region, continuing its mission to create jobs, innovate, and make a lasting impact.
Spark DeLight produces a range of affordable, locally made hygiene and cleaning products. These include Ukhondo Plus Liquid Detergent Soap and Ukhondo Pine Gel for household cleaning, Vroom Car Shampoo for vehicle care, and Wali Wali Liquid Dishwasher for kitchen use. The company also offers personal care items like Fresh n Cool Hair Shampoo and Geza Bath Soap, designed to keep users feeling clean and refreshed.