Iris Z N Mhlanga: Winner of the 2024 Great Companies International Women Entrepreneur Award

Name: Iris Z N Mhlanga

Business Name: Nozizwe Mother Of Nations Trust

Location: bulawayo , Zimbabwe

Establishment (Year): 2018

Category: Social Enterprise and NGO

Profession/ Specialty: NGO

Social Media: Facebook

Company Detail:

Nozizwe Mother Of Nations Trust, under the leadership of Iris Mhlanga, caters to the underprivileged, disabled, widowed, orphaned, and other marginalized members of society by providing financial and material support. The Trust offers assistance such as food parcels, wheelchairs, blankets, medical supplies, clothing, and psychosocial support to those in need, particularly the destitute.

In collaboration with Mustard Seed Communities Children's Home in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, the Trust runs a soup kitchen initiative, feeding 1200 vulnerable children daily from Monday to Saturday. Additionally, it sponsors tuition for 1000 orphans in and around Zimbabwe.

Unique Selling Proposition or Competitive Advantage:

The trust distinguishes itself by providing assistance to vulnerable communities, empowering them to become self-sustaining.

Challenges Faced During the Journey:

Funding remains the greatest challenge, but with the support of the community and well-wishers in cash or kind, the Trust is able to make a significant difference.

Advice for Women Entrepreneurs:

Iris Mhlanga's advice to young women is to speak out, speak up, and support fellow sisters. She believes in rising by lifting others.