Redefining Youth Entrepreneurship in Malawi: The Journey of Infinity Media Group

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.