A chat with Farai Munjoma, MSc Entrepreneurship, and Innovation, University of Edinburgh

We caught up with Farai early this week, who shares his past year's experience and how he adjusted and transitioned with the world shift that’s come with the pandemic. Here is what he says:

How has your past year been?

My past year has been a year of growth, I’ve been able to intentionally live in 2 countries, working with Fred in Nairobi and now doing my masters in the UK. My highlight over the pandemic, however, has been launching a virtual career accelerator that’s helping young people navigate their learning journey through career research, personal branding, and self-leadership modules. Through this, we’ve been able to guide and mentor students from Zimbabwe, South Africa, DRC, and Mauritius. With everything going on in the world, a lot of parents and even ourselves have been asking the question “what does the future hold?”, and for me, being able to step in and use our capabilities to help build a sustainable community has just been fulfilling. This accelerator is another milestone in me working towards my mission as it’s a branch in my venture; Shasha Networks.

Any new interests and hobbies you’ve picked up?

Yes, I’ve definitely picked up a couple of new interests. I’ve recently gotten more interested in Photography, particularly Nature photography as it’s much safer than doing it in places with a lot of people lol. But learning and discovering new things to do with photography has been one of my major interests.

How have you adjusted and transitioned with the world shift that’s come with the pandemic?

One of the ways I’ve adjusted is just number 1; keeping the mantra that all my other goals come after the number 1 goal: keeping myself and the people around me safe. Because if I’m not healthy, I won’t be able to achieve any of my other goals, career or educational-wise. I’ve also taken this time to reevaluate where I’ve been and where my energy goes, shifting and building better wellness habits, eating healthier, and reading more.

Any special message to your former colleagues?

Trust yourself. Create a community of people that can support you and you can also support and exchange information. Being part of a supportive community is what’s helped me transition into the real world; you can never underestimate being part of a community that actually wants to see you thrive.

“If I’m not healthy, I won’t be able to achieve any of my other goals, career or educational-wise”

_Farai Munjoma!