We are excited to announce our ninth pitching event, the “Bants2Business Pitching Competition Finals 2024“. This event will take place at Mafumu Hotel on August 9th, 2024, from 17:00 to 20:00 at the Mafumu Hotel at Area 3 in Lilongwe.
About the Project
The Muzi Ecosystem Initiative, supported by the Ntha Foundation and part of GIZ’s MIERA II project, empowers women-led and youth-led SMEs in Malawi’s tourism sector. Under the Kwathu Upgrade: Malawi Wanga edition, the Ntha Foundation trained 39 tourism entrepreneurs in digital and entrepreneurial skills.
Initial pitch events were held in Salima on July 17th and in Zomba on July 20th, 2024. Four participants from these sessions were selected for the final pitch event in Lilongwe on August 9th, 2024. Finalists will compete for top awards: €800 for first place, €500 for second, €300 for third, and €200 for fourth. We look forward to welcoming you to the final session in Lilongwe.
Panel Discussion
The event will feature a panel discussion on the topic of “Digital Tools for Tourism Management” moderated by Alex Kachepa and Abigail Zingani. It will feature representatives from the Ministry of Tourism, the Tourism Council, and a tourism operator. The discussion will focus on utilizing digital skills and tools to boost tourism and improve digital marketing in Malawi’s tourism sector.
Meet the Panelists
1. Ian D’heygere | General Manager of Nature’s Gift Ltd/Kumbali
Ian D’heygere is the General Manager at Nature’s Gift, which includes two boutique hotels and a 60-hectare banana farm. His extensive experience in hospitality and environmental management has led to successful ventures such as the Lilongwe Wildlife Centre and the ‘Lake of Stars’ festival. Ian’s leadership skills have been instrumental in managing over 200 employees and overseeing expansion projects.
2. Emma Chitanda | Front office Manager at Mafumu Hotel
Emma Chitanda is a seasoned hospitality professional with a passion for Malawi’s tourism industry. With over 8 years of experience, she has held various managerial roles and is currently the Front Office Manager at Mafumu Hotel. Emma’s dedication is evident in her efforts to promote tourism in Malawi.
3. Chikondi Mbewe | Manager of Chingalire Rural Home-stay
Chikondi Mbewe is the Manager of Chingalire Rural Home-stay, a cultural village offering an immersive Malawian rural life experience. A recent graduate in Culture and Heritage Tourism from Mzuzu University, Chikondi is bringing innovative ideas to enhance the cultural heritage tourism experience at the Home-stay.
Join us for an evening of innovation, inspiration, and networking as we celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit of Malawi. We look forward to seeing you there!
About the Author
