Staff Reporter
Thikhoi Constance Molapo, a HigherLife Foundation Lesotho fellow and student at Waterford Kamhlaba United World College of Southern Africa, has emerged victorious at the Allan Gray Business Pitch Competition, clinching first position in a contest bustling with over 200 young entrepreneurs from the southern Africa region. Molapo secured first place during the grand event held in Sandton, Johannesburg, from October 4-6. Her success, achieved through hard work, mentorship, and a strong entrepreneurial vision, has made waves across Lesotho and beyond. In this heart-to-heart interview, Thikhoi opens up about her journey, the lessons learned, and what the future holds for her as a young entrepreneur.
Who is Thikhoi Constance Molapo?
I am an 18-year-old from Leribe. I was raised in a family of four, where my parents instilled in me the values of hard work and education. I have a sister who is currently studying medicine, which motivates me to strive for excellence. I attended St. Monica’s Primary School, where I excelled in my studies, achieving advanced levels in all subjects. I then moved on to Holy Family High School, graduating among the top ten students. My journey continued with the Higher Life Foundation Merit Scholarship, which allowed me to study in Zimbabwe for a year at Star Leadership Academy. Currently, I am pursuing the International Baccalaureate (IB) program at Waterford Kamhlaba Eswatini United World Colleges.
You have just recently clinched the Allan Gray Business Pitch Competition. How did you know about this prestigious competition?
I learned about the Allan Gray Business Pitch Competition through my school, Waterford Kamhlaba, where we are constantly introduced to various opportunities for personal and professional development. The school’s commitment to fostering an entrepreneurial spirit made it easy for me to discover and participate in this prestigious competition.
What inspired you to participate in the competition?
My passion for entrepreneurship and innovation inspired me to participate. I wanted to challenge myself, gain valuable experience, and network with like-minded individuals. The opportunity to secure funding for my business idea was also a significant motivating factor.
How did you prepare for this challenging competition?
Preparation for the competition involved extensive research on my business idea, creating a solid pitch, and practising my presentation skills. I sought feedback from mentors and peers, which helped refine my approach. Additionally, I participated in workshops and coaching sessions, including invaluable guidance from Meliswa Mthethwa.
What was your experience rubbing shoulders with some of the talented students from the countries that participated?
Rubbing shoulders with talented students from Eswatini, Botswana, South Africa, and Namibia was both inspiring and humbling. It was incredible to see the diversity of ideas and the passion that each participant brought to the competition. The collaborative environment fostered creativity and encouraged us to learn from one another.
After making it through to the top 10, take us through what went through your mind; were you optimistic that you had what it takes to make it to the grand prize? Reaching the top 10 was an exhilarating moment. I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness, but I was optimistic. The coaching and preparation I received gave me confidence in my ability to perform well. I believed that my hard work and dedication would pay off.
And after being announced as the grand prize winner, how did you feel?
When my name was announced as the grand prize winner, I felt an overwhelming sense of joy and disbelief. It was a culmination of months of hard work and perseverance. I was grateful for the recognition and excited about the opportunities that lay ahead.
After having taken a moment to reflect on this accomplishment as a Higher Life Foundation Fellow, what would you like your win to mean for the entire Econet & Higher Life Foundation family?
I hope my win serves as an inspiration to fellow Higher Life Foundation Fellows and the broader Econet community. It reflects the support and guidance we receive and demonstrates that with hard work and determination, we can achieve our goals. I want this to encourage others to pursue their dreams fearlessly.
Can you share the idea that you pitched and where to with it now that you walked away with the ultimate prize?
I pitched a business idea centered around an innovative cyclic electro-culture process that uses electricity to grow plants, designed to enhance agricultural productivity and improve food security in Lesotho. This approach not only optimises resource use but also has the potential to create jobs in both the agricultural and technology sectors. With the additional capital of 45,000 from the STEAM Competition, I plan to develop a prototype that can be scaled up for commercialisation. My vision includes establishing a Key Performance Area (KPA) focused on sustainable growth and efficiency, which will facilitate an import-export-driven economy. By fostering local production and export capabilities, this initiative aims to drive economic growth and create job opportunities, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and prosperous community.
What is your advice to your fellow young Basotho regarding opportunities of this nature?
I urge fellow young Basotho to seize every opportunity that comes their way. Engage in competitions and programs that challenge you, and do not hesitate to seek mentorship. Believe in your ideas, stay resilient in the face of challenges, and always be open to learning and growth. Your potential is limitless.
