From the quiet, dusty roads of rural Shurugwi to the bustling business corridors of Harare, Tinashe Ngirandi’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the pursuit of vision against all odds. He was just a teenager when he first pitched business ideas, despite the doubt and rejection he faced due to his age.
Those early seeds of ambition, planted in the face of adversity, have grown into a thriving business empire that spans multiple sectors—energy, transport, media, agriculture, and logistics—all under the umbrella of Tinaran Group.
“I recall organizing entrepreneurship seminars and pitching business ideas to big offices as early as Form Three. I wasn’t deterred by the rejection. If anything, it fueled me even more,” Tinashe remembers, his voice a mix of nostalgia and determination.
From those formative years, it was clear that there was a deep, burning desire to create a legacy that would transcend boundaries and reshape his community—and eventually, Africa.
His childhood in Chegutu, Zimbabwe, was humble. Raised in rural Shurugwi, Tinashe learned the value of hard work and the importance of self-reliance. It wasn’t long before the idea of creating something greater than himself took root. “Some of my early project ideas included setting up a savings company for parents to invest in their children’s education and even developing a local chatting application. I wasn’t discouraged when my ideas were rejected, even though I was young. It was those early experiences that pushed me forward,” he shares.
Pursuing Mass Communication (Journalism) equipped Tinashe with the communication skills he would later use to guide his ventures. Today, he is pursuing a degree in Public Management and Governance, which has enhanced his leadership and managerial abilities. Not one to rest on his laurels, Tinashe is also a proud member of the Board of Directors for the Zimbabwe Youth Council, a position that allows him to influence youth development on a national scale.
Building Tinaran Group: A Vision of Empowerment
Tinaran Group, founded by Tinashe, is a multi-faceted organization that seeks to empower a new generation of African entrepreneurs. “Our mission is simple yet powerful,” he says. “We aim to create an entrepreneurial ecosystem where our generation can own industries, rather than just consuming or working for them.” It’s an ambition that sees the company playing a significant role across diverse sectors, including media consultancy, energy, logistics, and agriculture.
With Tinaran Group, Tinashe has established a diverse portfolio of subsidiaries. “We have several divisions that cater to different industries. Chena Africa focuses on smart mobility, with an emphasis on electric vehicle adoption. Then there’s SynovaTrade, which is leading global trade and investment research, providing strategic advice, and facilitating communication for businesses worldwide. Finally, Digkirnt is another subsidiary offering cutting-edge digital communication services to businesses and individuals,” Tinashe explains, outlining the vast reach of his company’s services.
The company’s flagship project is in the energy sector, where Tinaran Group is making waves with its innovative approach to sustainable solutions. “In the energy sector, we are developing a solar power project on credit for ordinary people. It’s not just about selling solar panels; it’s about ensuring that every Zimbabwean household has access to affordable, clean energy,” Tinashe reveals. This commitment to sustainability extends across all of Tinaran Group’s operations, demonstrating Tinashe’s determination to push Africa toward a greener future.
In addition to energy, Tinaran Group is heavily involved in media consultancy. “Through our media consultancy, we’ve worked with public figures, private sectors, and local authorities to develop effective communications and community engagement strategies,” Tinashe explains.
“One of the most rewarding parts of this venture has been seeing the results. The outcomes exceeded our clients’ and our expectations, giving us a reputation for delivering high-impact solutions.” Although he cannot disclose the names of all clients due to policy, Tinashe speaks with pride about the impact the consultancy has had in transforming how organizations engage with their audiences.
One of Tinaran Group’s most exciting projects is its push for electric vehicles (EVs) in Africa. “We’re working on an extensive project around electric mobility,” Tinashe reveals, “but I can’t disclose too much just yet as we’re preparing for our official launch later this year.” Despite the secrecy surrounding the project, Tinashe is clear about its potential: “The project will revolutionize transport in Africa. We’re focusing on building the necessary infrastructure—EV charging stations, manufacturing, and distribution channels. This is just the beginning.”
Overcoming Entrepreneurial Challenges
Like many entrepreneurs, Tinashe has faced his share of challenges. But his story is not one of discouragement. Rather, it’s a narrative of perseverance and the relentless pursuit of one’s dreams. “Entrepreneurship is tough. It’s normal to experience years of little to no profit, to have every penny reinvested into the business. Many times, people laugh at your dreams, but you have to stay resilient. Discipline and focus are key,” he reflects.
He recalls moments when the road was difficult. “There were times when I had nothing left to give. You feel like you’ve poured everything into your business, and the returns aren’t showing. But that’s when you find out what you’re made of. You can’t stop when things get hard—you have to keep moving forward, even when it seems like the world isn’t on your side.”
For Tinashe, failure isn’t an option. He emphasizes staying true to your goals, even when the path is unclear. “If you have a business idea, just get started. Don’t wait for the perfect moment or the perfect resources. Start with what you have, and the rest will follow. One day, someone will recognize your efforts and provide the support you need,” he says.
A Vision for Africa’s Future
Tinashe’s efforts are not just about business growth. He is deeply committed to impact-driven projects that address the continent’s unique challenges. “Sustainability is the future, and Africa is uniquely positioned to embrace that,” he says. His focus on sustainability is evident not just in his energy projects but in the way he approaches each venture—always with an eye toward creating long-term, meaningful change.
Tinashe believes that the key to success lies in adaptability. “In today’s world, the only constant is change. New technologies emerge every day, and you have to keep up with them. At Tinaran Group, we’ve embraced an Afrocentric approach, focusing on the needs of our continent. It’s this approach that has been our unique advantage,” he says confidently.
When asked about the broader impact he hopes to achieve, Tinashe is clear: “I want to see young Africans take ownership of industries. We are capable of running successful businesses that are not just profitable but also contribute positively to our communities and the planet. I want to help create a movement where young people no longer just work for others but build their own empires.”
Looking ahead, Tinashe is determined to keep pushing boundaries. “My ultimate goal is to be part of a movement that empowers the next generation of African entrepreneurs. I want to see a world where young Africans are not just consuming products but creating them, owning industries, and transforming Africa into a global economic powerhouse.”
Advice for Young Entrepreneurs
Tinashe’s entrepreneurial journey offers valuable lessons for others. “To young entrepreneurs, especially those with limited resources, I’d advise you to stay focused on your goals. Be adaptable, resilient, and disciplined. Build a strong network, and don’t be afraid to seek guidance from mentors or industry experts,” he advises, adding that there are no shortcuts to success.
Reflecting on his journey, Tinashe emphasizes the importance of perseverance and continuous learning. “Stay true to your vision. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who share your passion and always be open to learning. The journey is long, but the rewards are worth it.”
As Tinashe Ngirandi continues to build his entrepreneurial empire, his story serves as a beacon for others—one of hope, determination, and the belief that no dream is too big. With Tinaran Group leading the way in various sectors, it’s clear that Tinashe is not just building a business; he is shaping the future of Africa.
