Tatenda Pemba, founder of The Basket Grocer, is a shining example of women’s empowerment in Zimbabwe’s agricultural industry. Her company’s commitment to providing organic and healthy products has not only transformed the lives of her customers but has also paved the way for other women to follow in her footsteps.
Recently, Tatenda had the opportunity to share her insights and experiences at the Catalyzing Change: Empowering Women and Girls for Inclusive Economic Justice symposium. This event brought together women from diverse backgrounds to exchange ideas, strategies, and experiences aimed at driving social and economic change.
“A few days ago, I had the incredible honor of speaking at the Catalyzing Change symposium, hosted by the amazing Sprout Women Empowerment Trust,” she posted on LinkedIn. “Women are truly fertile ground—when empowered, they bear fruit in the form of innovation, growth, and societal transformation.”
“The event provided a safe space where women from all walks of life shared priceless ideas, experiences, and strategies to drive change,” Tatenda added.
Tatenda’s participation in the symposium was a testament to her dedication to empowering women and promoting inclusive economic justice. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that when women are empowered, they can bring about innovation, growth, and societal transformation.
Entrepreneurial Journey and Dedication to Empowerment
Tatenda’s entrepreneurial journey began when she identified a gap in the market for processed agricultural products. Driven by her passion for health and well-being, she launched The Basket Grocer, a company that not only provides healthy products but also creates employment opportunities for women and contributes to food security.
With over a decade of experience in various fields, Tatenda brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role as CEO of The Basket Grocer. Her professional journey began in 2010 as a Youth Development Specialist at the Ministry of Youth Development, Indigenization, and Economic Empowerment, where she worked for four years. She later transitioned to the role of Principal Immigration Officer at the Zimbabwe Immigration Department, a position she held for nine years.
In addition to her public sector experience, Tatenda worked as a Television Presenter for Zimbabwe’s The Awakening Giant from 2013 to 2018. These diverse roles have equipped her with the skills necessary to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship successfully.
Tatenda’s passion for women’s empowerment, poverty eradication, and healthy lifestyles aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. With a strong background in international affairs, agribusiness, and public relations, she is a strategic thinker, a dedicated leader, and an advocate for climate conservation and organic living.
However, Tatenda’s journey was not without its challenges. She faced hurdles such as leaving formal employment, securing funding, and entering the competitive agro-processing space. Despite these obstacles, Tatenda persevered, relying on her faith and strong family support system to drive her forward.
Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Resilience
When discussing the challenges of entrepreneurship, Tatenda shared her insights in a LinkedIn post: “Many people make the mistake of assuming that success is ready-made, like it happens overnight. But what no one talks about are the meals missed, the friendships lost, or the profound personal transformations endured while building an enterprise.”
She emphasized the importance of resilience and determination: “When you choose to become an entrepreneur and fully commit, you have to be tough. The battle begins the moment you decide to push forward. If you’re not prepared to watch yourself evolve into someone new, this journey might not be for you.”
“I’m still in the process, but I understand and appreciate the price I’m paying. It’s a difficult but necessary part of the journey. You have to be a little bit crazy to go through it, but that’s what makes entrepreneurs different,” Tatenda added.
Recognition and Achievements
Tatenda’s dedication and hard work have recently been recognized with several prestigious awards. She was named one of the 40 Under 40 Young Leaders in Zimbabwe for 2024, a testament to her leadership potential and hard work. She also received the Megafest Outstanding Woman Entrepreneur of the Year (Bronze) Award for 2024, recognizing her outstanding contributions to entrepreneurship and women’s empowerment.
Additionally, Tatenda was honored as one of the 50 Most Inspirational Women in Zimbabwe for 2024 by The Women Corporate Directors Network Zimbabwe. This recognition further underscores her resilience, passion, and dedication to her entrepreneurial journey with The Basket Grocer.
Tatenda is also a proud African Climate Leaders Fellow, demonstrating her commitment to addressing climate change and promoting sustainable development.
In response to these accolades, Tatenda expressed gratitude and humility: “These recognitions fuel my drive to continue empowering communities, promoting sustainable agriculture, and creating lasting impact. To all the inspiring women in business and beyond, these awards are a reminder that our contributions matter. May we continue to rise, lead, and inspire.”
Looking Forward: Farming in Heels 2.0
Tatenda is also set to speak at Farming in Heels 2.0, an event dedicated to empowering women in agriculture and business. The event, taking place on November 30th, aims to create opportunities for women to share their experiences, overcome challenges, and expand their networks. It also provides a platform for women agropreneurs to gain valuable insights and make a meaningful impact.
Inspiring Change and Empowering Women
As Tatenda continues to break barriers in Zimbabwe’s agricultural industry, her journey inspires others to pursue their passions and make a meaningful impact in their communities. Her commitment to providing healthy and organic products has created a ripple effect, contributing to a more inclusive and sustainable food system.
Tatenda’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of empowering women and providing them with opportunities to succeed. As the world continues to work toward achieving inclusive economic justice, it is essential that women’s voices and potential are amplified to create a more equitable and prosperous society for all.