In a world where resilience often separates those who succeed from those who do not, Sharon James is living proof of what is possible when determination meets opportunity. Born an orphan and raised on a small farm, she did not have a head start in life. What she did have? An unshakable belief in herself. Today, she is an award-winning entrepreneur in Zimbabwe’s competitive business world, running a thriving furniture business. Her journey is not just about business, it is about perseverance, adaptability, and the courage to bet on yourself.

Sharon’s entrepreneurial spark was there from the beginning, though her path to success was anything but straightforward. Music was her first passion. She pursued it, gave it her all, only to realize it was not a sustainable path. Here is the thing about Sharon, she does not dwell on closed doors. She tried her hand at fashion, renting out clothes to friends. It was not a financial breakthrough, but it allowed her to express herself, to tap into her creativity, and to learn something valuable: every experience builds you.

However, Sharon was not meant to stop there. After two years in formal employment, she felt it in her gut that her true calling was business and at just 23 years old, she made a bold move. With no guarantees, no safety net, she started a small furniture business and hired her first employee. It was risky, but she believed in herself. Sometimes, that is all it takes.

Then the world changed.

Zimbabwe’s economy was already tough, businesses battling inflation, financial instability, unpredictable markets. Then came COVID-19. Everything shut down. Uncertainty was everywhere. Many businesses did not survive. Sharon adapted. She started selling groceries, delivering food, doing whatever it took to keep things moving because when life throws challenges your way, you have two choices: give up or pivot. She chose to pivot.

Fast-forward to today, her furniture business is thriving. Thirty employees. Industry recognition. A success story that proves resilience, strategic thinking, and an entrepreneurial mindset can defy even the toughest conditions.

Here is the reality, success does not mean the challenges disappear. Sharon knows firsthand the barriers women face in Zimbabwe’s business world. Limited access to funding. Male-dominated industries. Constantly having to prove yourself and yet, she stands. She rises because she has never been one to back down.

If there is one thing her story teaches us, it is this: No matter where you start, no matter what stands in your way, when you keep pushing, when you refuse to give up, when you choose to believe, you can rewrite your future.

“Honestly, the entrepreneurial space in Zimbabwe can be challenging for women. We face unique obstacles, such as limited access to funding, especially in male-dominated sectors,” she admits. “But I believe in moving at my own pace. There is no funding? Fine. I’m not waiting for loans to boost my business. I have focused on learning, seeking mentorship, and building my skills instead.”

Her advice to women looking to venture into business is clear:

“Stay focused, persistent, and true to yourself. Seek mentorship, build a strong support network, and never let anyone make you feel like you are not enough. Most importantly, always start from where you are!”

If Sharon could give her younger self one piece of advice, it would be to trust the process.

“I would tell my 23-year-old self to be patient and stay focused. It is okay not to have it all figured out. Explore your passions, take calculated risks, and step out of your comfort zone. Every experience, good or bad, is a lesson that will shape you into the person you are meant to be.”

With a growing business, a powerful story, and a mission to inspire, Sharon James is redefining what it means to be an entrepreneur in Zimbabwe. Her journey is proof that no dream is too big, no challenge too insurmountable, and no starting point too small. She is not just building a business, she is building a legacy.