Economic Recovery Initiatives

Our co-founder and CEO .
She is representing Ku Chalo.

Zambia kuchalo

Mary Nkonde wins Top Pitch in Business Entrepreneurship Development at YALI-RLC-SA Leadership Program Hybrid Cohort 24 in South Africa

A finalist from Zambia, Mary Nkonde, has earned the Top Pitch Award in the Business Entrepreneurship Development category among 94 participants from Southern Africa. This achievement followed an intensive six-week training program, which included three weeks of online learning and three weeks of in-person sessions in South Africa.

Mary's project presentation stood out before a panel of seasoned judges at the final pitch event that was held at the University of South Africa Graduate School of Business Leadership . Despite the stiff competition, her pitch was selected as the best in the Business and Entrepreneurship Development track. As a co-founder of Economic Recovery Initiatives and Lokofresh, organizations dedicated to promoting rural economic empowerment and development, her participation in the program connected her to vital resources and networks essential for scaling her community work.

The pitch aimed to highlight business potential and cultivate connections between YALI-RLC-SA participants, ensuring their ventures are considered by potential investors.

This recognition is expected to boost visibility, brand awareness, and economic opportunities for YALI's business and entrepreneurial alumni.

USAID - US Agency for International Development
USAID Zambia
YALI Regional Leadership Center Southern Africa

Lusaka Slush` D 2023 day 1. It was worth the time to spend the day to understand what is happening in the entrepreneurship ecosystem.

Lusaka Slush`D is the founder most focussed event in Zambia.

Networking is the new grease of opportunities.