Esther Samuel
Ellen Chilemba is a young Malawian entrepreneur who is making a significant impact in her country by empowering women through entrepreneurship. She is the founder and CEO of Tiwale, a social enterprise that seeks to economically empower women in Malawi.
Tiwale, which means “let us shine” in Chichewa, was founded in 2014 by Chilemba when she was just 18 years old. The organization provides a platform for women to learn new skills and start their businesses through access to training, mentorship, and financial support.
Chilemba’s inspiration for starting Tiwale came from her own experiences growing up in Malawi. She witnessed firsthand the challenges that women face in her community, including limited access to education and economic opportunities. She realized that empowering women through entrepreneurship could have a significant impact on their lives and the broader community.
Since its inception, Tiwale has provided training and mentorship to over 500 women in Malawi, helping them start and grow their businesses. The organization also provides microloans to women who do not have access to traditional financing options, enabling them to invest in their businesses and increase their incomes.
Through Tiwale, Chilemba has also created a community space for women to come together and share their experiences and support one another. The organization hosts regular events and workshops, providing women with opportunities to learn new skills and connect with others in their community.
In addition to her work with Tiwale, Chilemba is also an advocate for girls’ education. She has spoken at numerous international conferences and events, highlighting the importance of investing in girls’ education and providing them with opportunities to succeed.
Chilemba’s work has not gone unnoticed, and she has received numerous accolades for her efforts. In 2017, she was named one of Forbes Africa’s 30 Under 30 for her work in social entrepreneurship. She was also selected as a Mandela Washington Fellow in 2018, an initiative of the US Department of State that brings young African leaders to the United States for leadership training and networking opportunities.
In conclusion, Ellen Chilemba is a remarkable young woman who is making a significant impact in Malawi through her work with Tiwale. By empowering women through entrepreneurship, she is helping to create a more equitable and prosperous society. Her dedication to this cause is an inspiration to us all, and we can all learn from her example of how to make a difference in the world.
