Africa Business Fellow Journey – Tzviatko Chiderov

By Tzviatko Chiderov, Africa Business Fellow 

Africa Business Fellow Tzviatko Chiderov walks us through his first month in Johannesburg and Zimbabwe. He is spending six months in Zimbabwe working for Econet.

I am honored to be a member of the Africa Business Fellows’ inaugural class! I have been placed with Econet and I began my fellowship working at the headquarters in Johannesburg, South Africa, before moving to Harare, Zimbabwe for the duration of my six-month placement.

While in Joburg, I briefly worked on an interesting data visualization initiative and an exciting sports related project in Econet’s media business. I was even lucky enough to have had the chance to interact with Strive Masiyiwa, Econet’s Founder and Chairman, and one of the main supporters of the Africa Business Fellowship!

In Johannesburg, I caught up with Africa Business Fellow Ashley Company, who, like me, spent the first few weeks of her placement there. We went to an Oyster, Wine and Food festival which was happening over a weekend – I had no idea that South Africa has so many different kinds of amazing wine (and cheese, and olives, and oil, and so much more)!

I arrived in Zimbabwe on June 18th. I lived and worked in the country 5 years ago and I had been looking forward to coming back. In the office, I’m currently working on the broadband/data side of the business, with a team in charge of introducing new products and services. It’s a very active, busy and dynamic place. All of my colleagues have been amazing. They ask for my ideas and feedback and it’s great to see that contributions I make are welcomed and appreciated. I’m also involved with a young professionals program where cross functional teams of young Econet leaders are working on new and innovative ideas.

I’m learning that Econet Zimbabwe has its hands in so many meaningful projects. From the traditional telecom business to initiatives like Muzinda, Ruzivo, the HigherLife Foundation, all aimed at making a positive impact in the community. It’s great to be working for a company that is so respected and appreciated throughout Zimbabwe.

So far, I’m really enjoying my time as an Africa Business Fellow. I look forward to learning and experiencing more in the coming months.

Learn more about the Africa Business Fellowship!