Charity N Tshivhengwa

With over 19 years of diverse experience in international development, education, and nonprofit sectors, I bring a unique combination of skills honed through hands-on work in rural and urban communities across Africa. My career has been defined by a strong commitment to project management, social impact, and community empowerment, particularly within cross-cultural environments. I am deeply skilled in leading multifaceted projects that require strategic planning, resource management, and stakeholder engagement to achieve sustainable outcomes.

Project Management and Leadership:

I excel in developing and executing large-scale, complex projects, particularly in education, health, and community development sectors. I have managed projects funded by major international donors such as USAID, FCDO (UKAID), and UNAIDS. My experience includes leading a £30 million UKAID-funded Strengthening Education Systems for Improved Learning program in Uganda, where I was responsible for designing project timelines, overseeing deliverables, managing risks, and ensuring alignment with both donor and partner expectations. My ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, often across different countries, has sharpened my capacity to navigate fast-paced, high-stakes environments while ensuring that objectives are met on time and within budget.

Stakeholder Engagement and Partner Relations:

Building and maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders is a cornerstone of my work. I have worked closely with governments, non-governmental organizations, donors, and community leaders to co-create impactful solutions that address the specific needs of the populations I serve. Whether facilitating collaboration with the Ministry of Education in Uganda or managing partnerships with local cooperatives in East Africa, I am skilled at ensuring that all parties remain aligned and invested in the success of the program.

Cultural Sensitivity and Localization:

Having lived and worked in Africa for over 17 years, I have developed a deep understanding of diverse cultural contexts and regional needs. My ability to localize initiatives, adapt educational materials, and tailor program approaches has been a key factor in the success of projects across South Africa, Uganda, and Kenya. This experience has been particularly valuable when recruiting participants from rural communities, ensuring that initiatives are relevant, accessible, and culturally appropriate.

Communication and Content Development:

With a strong foundation in communications, I am adept at crafting compelling messages that resonate with a variety of audiences. From creating educational content and training materials to managing messaging across digital platforms, I ensure that initiatives are effectively communicated and consistently reflect the mission and values of the organization. My experience includes moderating high-level events, creating content for global audiences, and working with media outlets to amplify project visibility.

Entrepreneurship and Innovation:

As the founder of ZOTE Projects, I have led initiatives that combine volunteerism and tourism, particularly focused on supporting rural communities in Limpopo, South Africa. I am passionate about creating global market channels for locally produced goods, such as Nilotica Shea Butter from women-led cooperatives in East Africa. These efforts highlight my entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to sustainable, market-driven development that empowers marginalized communities.

Data-Driven Decision Making and Reporting:

I am highly proficient in using data analysis tools and project management software to track KPIs and measure impact. My experience in reporting includes preparing detailed assessments and impact reports for both internal and external stakeholders, ensuring transparency and accountability in all initiatives.

In sum, my diverse skill set, extensive field experience, and unwavering dedication to community development make me well-equipped to drive successful initiatives and create lasting, positive change.