Home Real Estate From a Kombi Driver to a refined Realtor: The story of Allen Chigwaza
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From a Kombi Driver to a refined Realtor: The story of Allen Chigwaza

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Allen Chigwaza, founder and CEO of Grapple Properties, exemplifies the power of determination and vision. Since 2021, this young Zimbabwean entrepreneur has led a thriving property management business committed to delivering sustainable housing and renovation solutions.

Grapple Properties, located in Harare’s Central Business District, specializes in property management, sales, and renovations, carving a niche in Zimbabwe’s dynamic real estate industry.

The Zimbabwean real estate sector is multifaceted, encompassing property sales, management, leasing, development, and valuations. Known for its profitability, the industry attracts substantial investment opportunities.

Professionals such as brokers and managers play pivotal roles, with property management services becoming increasingly essential, particularly for the Diaspora community. Recognizing this growing need, Chigwaza founded Grapple Properties to offer reliable, client-centered services, overcoming numerous challenges in the industry.

Mentorship and the Birth of Grapple Properties

Allen’s journey into real estate was not premeditated. Initially, he lacked interest in the sector but developed a passion for it under the mentorship of his late high school friend, who ran an unregistered real estate company called Alister.

“This line of business was not my first choice as an entrepreneur,” he recalls. “Rather, I developed a fondness and enthusiasm for the business under the mentorship of my late high school friend, who was well-versed in the industry. While working under him, I built strong connections with my clients, and when the Alister firm closed, they all followed me. This pushed me to start my own firm, as I had already established a solid foundation of trust with my clients.”

Early Struggles and Commitment to Success

Chigwaza’s journey to entrepreneurship was shaped by personal responsibility and resilience. As the eldest in a family of four raised by a single mother, he assumed early responsibility for supporting his family after his father’s death. After completing his O-levels at Ellis Robbins High School, he worked as a commuter bus driver in Gokwe and Kadoma to provide for his family while pursuing personal development.

In 2013, Chigwaza earned a Business Administration degree from the University of South Africa, equipping him with critical thinking and communication skills. His education laid the foundation for his entrepreneurial pursuits and the eventual success of Grapple Properties. In 2014, he founded Grapple Properties as a platform to provide sustainable real estate solutions. The company operated for several years while unregistered.

After graduating, Allen worked at ZB Financial Holdings as a life insurance consultant before becoming a driver for ZESA in 2016. During this time, he struggled to balance his job with his burgeoning real estate side hustle. Despite encountering challenges such as limited funds, inexperience, and legal hurdles—including being arrested in 2019 for operating without a license—he remained undeterred.

In 2021, after extensive research and preparation, Chigwaza officially registered Grapple Properties with the Estate Agents Council of Zimbabwe, marking a significant milestone in his entrepreneurial journey.

“As a result of inexperience, I was initially arrested in 2019 by the Estate Agents Council for operating without a license. This experience pushed me to research and equip myself with real estate knowledge, and in 2021, I registered with the Estate Agents Council of Zimbabwe and started operating legally,” Allen revealed.

Expansion and Diversification

Under Chigwaza’s leadership, Grapple Properties has thrived, creating opportunities for employees and stakeholders. The company has recently expanded to offer property renovation services and plans to venture into property development and road construction.

Recognized by the CEO Africa Round Table for its contribution to economic growth, Grapple Properties is a testament to Chigwaza’s determination.

In addition to his real estate endeavors, Chigwaza founded KISS & DASH Car Wash, the largest car wash in Bindura. Opened in 2022 by Member of Parliament Kenneth Musanhi, the business has created employment opportunities for local youth. Chigwaza’s commitment to community empowerment is evident, with 95% of Grapple Properties’ workforce comprising young people.

“I wanted to do something that uplifts the youth in Bindura. My dream is to continue empowering youth, and as you have noticed, 95% of Grapple Properties employees are young people,” Allen said.

A Vision for the Future

Chigwaza envisions expanding his businesses to drive innovation and economic growth. Beyond business, he collaborates with organizations like the Twins Association of Zimbabwe (TAZI) and actively supports underprivileged communities through donations and initiatives.

From a humble background to the helm of successful enterprises, Allen Chigwaza stands as a shining example of entrepreneurial excellence. He is putting Zimbabwe and Africa on the global map through his unwavering commitment to his community. His story inspires others to pursue their dreams in the right way.

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