
Empowering Communities Through Clean Energy
Sharon Yeti, the visionary founder and CEO of Powerlive Zimbabwe, is spearheading a much-needed shift in the renewable energy landscape of Zimbabwe. With a focus on clean and affordable solar energy, her company is not just addressing the energy crisis; it's also laying the foundations for social equity and women's empowerment. Sharon’s journey from a small town in Zimbabwe to leading an innovative energy company underscores the transformative power of tenacity and strategic support.
A Pivotal Moment: Turning Challenges into Opportunities
Reflecting on her entrepreneurial journey, Sharon discusses how funding from the Energy Access Relief Fund came at a crucial time during the COVID-19 pandemic. "Our business was at a critical juncture," she recalls. This funding not only helped Powerlive sustain operations but also gave it the boost required to scale up in 2023 with a subsequent top-up loan. The experience taught Sharon the importance of resilience and the impact that strategic financial support can have on growth and innovation.
Join the Clean Energy Revolution
As Powerlive Zimbabwe thrives, it's shaping a future where clean, sustainable energy is accessible to all, especially in rural and off-grid communities. Sharon’s dedication to integrating both genders into the clean energy value chain is revolutionary, as it promotes not just energy access but also job creation and entrepreneurial opportunities for women. “We are tackling poverty while promoting gender equality in the renewable energy sector,” Sharon emphasizes, rallying a unified effort toward a more inclusive society.
The Advice Every Aspiring Female Entrepreneur Needs to Hear
For women entrepreneurs chasing investment, Sharon offers vital advice rooted in her own experience. "Never give up, and network as much as possible. The journey to securing investment is challenging, often requiring persistence, resilience, and continuous relationship-building," she advises. Sharon reinforces the idea that many opportunities arise from connections, urging aspiring investors to actively engage with industry leaders and fellow entrepreneurs to unlock new doors to success.
Overcoming Challenges: The Key to Sustainable Growth
Sharon's story is also one of overcoming significant hurdles, particularly in fundraising, which can be particularly challenging for women-led startups. Before receiving SIMA's investment, she faced a lack of capital that limited her ability to expand her team and secure inventory. This restricted market reach stunted her business growth. With access to financing, however, Sharon was able to overcome these barriers, unleashing her company's potential to make a lasting impact.
Conclusion: Investing in Change
Sharon Yeti’s journey is a compelling narrative of hope, persistence, and empowerment. For individual and business investors seeking to make a meaningful impact, investing in women-led initiatives like Powerlive Zimbabwe is not just financially sound; it’s also a step toward advocating for gender equality and sustainability. As we celebrate women making strides in business this Women's Day, let's take a moment to consider how we can support such leaders in their mission to create positive change in the world.
As we reflect on Sharon’s insights and the broader implications of supporting women entrepreneurs, there’s an opportunity for all of us to take action. Engage with initiatives that promote clean energy and empower women, and begin your journey toward impactful investment today!
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