Hustle Beats Talent, if Talent Doesn’t Hustle:

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Tips for Entrepreneurs as 2026 Beckons

As Zimbabwe steps into 2026, a new wave of entrepreneurs, who in street language, are now called “hustlers,” is emerging, driven by resilience, innovation, and a relentless spirit to conquer the world of business. The journey to success often begins with humble beginnings, but with determination and blue-sky thinking, Zimbabweans are proving that greatness is within reach for those willing to hustle smarter and harder. There is a sudden and timely realization that hustle beats talent if talent doesn’t hustle!

Embrace Innovation and Technology

In today’s digital age, leveraging technology is crucial. Some Zimbabwean entrepreneurs have practiced this. Take, for instance, Ethel Mupambwa, co-founder of Moneymart, a micro-finance institution, Rumbidzai Bvunzawabaya, founder of Biddy’s Bakery and Paul Makaya, who started selling mobile accessories from a small stall in Harare, now runs a thriving online business that supplies electronics across the country. These stories highlight the importance of embracing and leveraging digital platforms and e-commerce to reach broader markets.

Learn from the Legends

The internet is replete with nuggets of timeless wisdom from successful ‘hustler-turned-businessmen’. On YouTube, Facebook and X, the likes of Jeff Bezos, Larry Page, Elon Musk, Strive Masiyiwa and Kack Ma are awash with free public tips and advice on how to breakthrough in business. Their journeys underscore the significance of vision, perseverance, and continuous learning. Come 2026 Zimbabwe should flourish with ‘hustlers unleashed!’

Tips for Hustling Smarter in 2026

• Identify Gaps in the Market: Look around and find needs that are unmet or underserved. Whether it’s agriculture, tech, or retail, innovation often stems from solving local problems.

• Invest in Skills: Constantly upgrade your skills. Attend Workshops, Seminars, learn online, and network. Knowledge is power, and in today’s competitive landscape, being well-informed gives you an edge.

• Build a Strong Network: Connect with other entrepreneurs, mentors, and investors. Collaborations and partnerships can open doors and provide valuable support.

• Be Resilient and Adaptable: Challenges are inevitable. The key is to adapt quickly and learn from failures. Remember, setbacks are mere stepping stones to success.

• Manage Finances Wisely: Practice good financial habits. Avoid irrational exuberance with money! Save, reinvest, and avoid unnecessary debt to keep your business sustainable. Delayed gratification is supreme. A hustler does not splash money like confetti. 

Hustle with Purpose

The story of Zimbabwean entrepreneurs is still being written. Every small effort, every late night, and every innovative idea contributes to a bigger and brighter future. As we move further into 2026, let’s commit to hustling harder and smarter, inspired by those who started small but dreamed big. Steve Jobs started in a shabby garage and today Apple is one of the unquestionable unicorn companies of the world. 

Zimbabwe’s future belongs to those who dare to hustle with purpose. Your journey to greatness begins today. Keep pushing, keep dreaming, and remember: your hustle can change your world.

Professor Mufaro Gunduza mentors Business Intelligence at Mount Carmel Institute, Indian School of Management, and UNISA among others. He is the SADC Investments Advisor to Dr. Farzam Kamalabadi, Founder of Future Trends Group and Special Presidential Envoy on Business and International Relations, government of Botswana. He has written several books including Unleashing Blue Sky Thinking, Spotting Business Opportunities and Big Picture Thinking, (Bookboon Publishers, London & Denmark)