Visionary Entrepreneur & Chancellor
A Journey of Pupose and Impact
The Narrative of a Trailblazer
Dr. Divine Simbi-Ndhlukula’s story is one of Africa’s most celebrated narratives of resilience and vision. From her rural beginnings in Gutu, Masvingo, she navigated a path that led to the creation of award-winning institutions that combine excellence, innovation, and social impact.
In 1998, with only $1,000 in savings and a bold vision, she founded SECURICO Security Services. What started in a traditionally male-dominated sector has grown into Zimbabwe’s largest private security company and the country’s first ISO-certified firm. Today, SECURICO employs over 4,000 professionals, including a groundbreaking achievement of having nearly a quarter being women. Her vision has positioned the brand as a leader in professional security solutions.
“Competence speaks louder than gender, and success is meaningless if it isn’t shared.”
Beyond security, Dr. Ndhlukula has shaped the future of agribusiness through Zvikomborero Farms (Zviko). Located in Featherstone, Zviko has become a Centre of Farming Excellence, renowned for climate-smart agriculture, livestock management (especially extensive goat production), and rural empowerment. Her impact connects agriculture, innovation, and community development to strengthen Zimbabwe’s farming economy.
As a passionate advocate for gender parity, she founded the Women Owned Brand (WOB) initiative to help women-owned businesses scale. She also leads the Mentorship in Practice programme and established the Mbuya Mary Simbi Library in Gutu to provide educational resources for rural pupils. Her appointment as Chancellor of the Women’s University in Africa serves as a prestigious testament to her lifelong commitment to education and empowerment.
Spheres Of Influence
Leadership & Governance
Chancellor
Women's University in Africa (WUA). Championing education, leadership, and gender equality through academic leadership.
President
PROWEB. Leading the forum for professional women, executives, and businesswomen across Zimbabwe.
Founding Trustee & Chairperson
Women Owned Business Trust (WOBT). Advancing women's economic empowerment via corporate and government supply chains.
Former President
Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC). Pioneered the Women's Desk to support female entrepreneurs.
Advisory & Board Roles
Influential positions in chambers of commerce, mining, and pan-African women's leadership networks.
Recognition
Awards, Honours & Legacy
2001
Empretec Entrepreneur of the Year
Pioneering change in Zimbabwe's private security industry.
2019
Forbes Woman Africa: Businesswoman of the Year
Recognised as one of Africa's most successful women entrepreneurs.
2011
Africa Awards for Entrepreneurship
Grand Prize winner for innovation and sustainable business growth.
2021
JA Global Business Hall of Fame Inductee
One of the highest distinctions in international business leadership.
2011
Legatum Africa Award for Entrepreneurship
Recognition for advancing entrepreneurship across Africa.
2025
National Arts Merit Award (NAMA)
Awarded for Outstanding Non-Fiction for "Entrepreneurial Success".
2014
UNCTAD/Empretec Top 10 Global Women in Business
Honouring her impact as a global business leader in international arenas.
2025
Chancellor Appointment
Recognising contributions to education and gender equality at WUA.
