In the fast-paced world of marketing and advertising, there are inspired individuals that stand out for their exceptional creativity, unwavering passion, and a relentless drive to make a difference, like Tutsirai Jenje, the inspired brand builder in Africa.
Her name means “add more”, a Shona name that she has lived up to its meaning, as she has added more to brand building in Zimbabwe and Africa.
Tutsirai Jenje, Co-Chief Executive Officer of Artworks Advertising, is trailblazer brand building strategist who has left an indelible mark on the industry in Zimbabwe and Africa. With over 12 years of experience and a diverse skill set, she has proven herself as a driving force behind some of the most successful advertising campaigns and brand launches. But her journey is not just about professional accomplishments; it’s a testament to the power of inspiration and the pursuit of one’s dreams.
According to the World Bank, in 2019, the labor force participation rate for women aged 15 years and above in Zimbabwe was around 84.6%, indicating significant female involvement in the workforce. However, the specific data on entrepreneurship is not readily available.
Tutsirai’s story begins with a deep-rooted passion for creativity. From an early age, she displayed a natural talent for art and design, setting the stage for her future success. She honed her skills at the prestigious ZIVA Institute, where she graduated as a top student, armed with the knowledge and expertise to make her mark in the advertising world.
Her career took flight as she joined various advertising agencies, assuming roles of increasing responsibility. As a Creative Director, she spearheaded the creative process, leading teams and managing projects across multiple locations, from Dubai to South Africa.
Her keen eye for detail, coupled with her strategic mindset, ensured that every campaign she worked on left a lasting impression. Whether it was crafting compelling copy, developing innovative marketing strategies, or overseeing the art direction, Tutsirai’s contributions were invaluable.
However, Tutsirai’s true calling emerged when she transitioned into online training and mentoring. Drawing on her vast experience and innate ability to communicate effectively, she embarked on a mission to empower individuals to effectively communicate their brands and achieve successful launches.
In 2017/8, Tutsirai Jenje signed up for a Digital Master Class, where she was trained and mentored in Digital Marketing for an African Landscape by Oscar Habeenzu the Digital Maestro and founder of Cabanga Media Group, equipping her with insights and techniques to maneuver in the digital economy of Zimbabwe and Africa.
As an online course creator at The American Association of Female Entrepreneurs, she imparted her knowledge and insights, helping others navigate the complex world of marketing and advertising. Her dedication to nurturing young talent led her to establish CCMAD (Creativity Can Make a Difference), an organization that celebrates Africa’s vibrant spirit and aims to incubate alternative narratives. Through training, innovation platforms, and unique storytelling, Tutsirai and her team are changing the narrative and making a difference through creativity.
Alongside her training endeavors, Tutsirai continues to make her mark as the Co-Chief Executive Officer of Artworks Advertising, where she focuses on idea generation, brand building, and design. Her contributions have propelled the agency to new heights, cementing its reputation as a creative powerhouse.
Additionally, her role as a Brand Building Strategist at Legacy Brand Builders allows her to collaborate with clients, infusing their brands with her unique vision and strategic insights.
Tutsirai’s journey is a testament to her unwavering determination and thirst for personal growth. She has actively sought out opportunities to expand her knowledge base and refine her skills.
From leadership training programs to intellectual property training, she has invested in her professional development, ensuring she stays at the forefront of industry trends and innovations. Her commitment to lifelong learning has not only benefited her but has also empowered her clients and mentees to strive for greatness.
It is not just Tutsirai’s professional achievements that set her apart; it is her innate ability to inspire those around her. Colleagues and clients alike speak of her professionalism, her unparalleled work ethic, and her unique creative flair.
Lovemore Jokonya, who worked closely with Tutsirai, praises her control, knowledge, and responsibility over her work, highlighting her ability to deliver outstanding results without the need for constant supervision. Christopher Mahakata, who witnessed her exceptional idea generation and brand building skills, emphasizes her intuitive approach and solution-oriented mindset.
Tutsirai Jenje’s journey is filled with valuable lessons that young women aspiring to succeed in the business world can embrace and follow. Here are some key lessons derived from her experiences:
Embrace and cultivate your passion: Tutsirai’s success stems from her deep-rooted passion for creativity. She followed her heart and pursued a career that aligned with her interests and talents. Young women should identify their passions early on and strive to build their careers around them. Embracing what truly excites and motivates them will fuel their drive and make their journey more fulfilling.
Continuously invest in learning and personal growth: Tutsirai’s commitment to lifelong learning is evident in her pursuit of various training programs and certifications. Young women should adopt a growth mindset and actively seek opportunities to expand their knowledge and skills. By investing in personal development, they can stay ahead of industry trends, acquire new capabilities, and enhance their competitive edge.
Be fearless and embrace change: Tutsirai’s ability to adapt to evolving technologies and industry trends has been instrumental in her success. Young women should be open to change, unafraid of exploring new avenues, and willing to embrace emerging technologies. By staying adaptable and innovative, they can position themselves as leaders in their fields and seize opportunities that others might overlook.
Foster a strong support network: Throughout her career, Tutsirai has received support and praise from colleagues and mentors. Building a strong support network of like-minded individuals who believe in your abilities is crucial. Young women should seek out mentors and surround themselves with individuals who inspire and uplift them. A supportive network can provide guidance, valuable connections, and a source of motivation during challenging times.
Champion diversity and inclusivity: Tutsirai’s dedication to changing the narrative and celebrating Africa’s vibrancy reflects her commitment to diversity and inclusivity. Young women should recognize the value of diverse perspectives and actively contribute to creating inclusive spaces. By championing diversity in their work and interactions, they can foster innovation, equality, and a more inclusive business environment.
Embrace entrepreneurship and seize opportunities: Tutsirai’s entrepreneurial spirit is evident in her various ventures, including her own organization, CCMAD. Young women should nurture an entrepreneurial mindset, seek opportunities to create their own paths, and be willing to take calculated risks. By embracing entrepreneurship, they can unleash their creativity, build their own brands, and create impact on their own terms.
Believe in yourself and persevere: Tutsirai’s journey is a testament to the power of self-belief and perseverance. Young women should trust their abilities, remain resilient in the face of challenges, and stay committed to their goals. By maintaining a strong belief in themselves and their dreams, they can overcome obstacles and achieve remarkable success.
In essence, Tutsirai Jenje’s story serves as an inspiration for young women to pursue their passions, embrace learning and change, foster support networks, champion diversity, embrace entrepreneurship, and remain resilient in the pursuit of their goals. By internalizing these lessons and following in her footsteps, young women can unlock their full potential and forge their own paths to success.
When in Zimbabwe, your brand building journey must begin with having a coffee with Tutsirai Jenje and her team.
