Image: Natalie Moyo, Anzisha Venture Partner and Tsantatiana Rakotoarimanga from Madagascar, founder of Mapwess and Anzisha Prize Revenue Growth Prize Winner.

Running a business is tough, and starting one from scratch can be even more challenging. Entrepreneurs not only transform ideas into marketable products or services but also maintain a deep connection to their projects. They innovate solutions to real-world problems, and while this journey is inherently exciting, it’s also demanding, with highs and lows that can lead them to question the worth of their efforts.

This is where coaching becomes invaluable. It plays a pivotal role in an entrepreneur’s journey by providing essential encouragement, guidance, and strategic insights needed to navigate the complexities of business. This support is especially crucial in the context of African entrepreneurship, where unique challenges and opportunities require tailored approaches for achieving sustainable growth.

Natalie Moyo, a Venture Building Partner with Anzisha based in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe describes that a business coach primarily concentrates on enhancing the performance of the business to achieve specific objectives. Conversely, an entrepreneur coach is dedicated to assisting the individual entrepreneur in developing business acumen and leadership capabilities, while also facilitating improvements in the current business endeavour.

At Anzisha, we understand the value of coaching and mentorship, which is why we offer this to young and upcoming entrepreneurs on the African continent. Our goal is to empower the next generation of job-creators by providing them with the guidance, support, and resources they need to succeed. Through the Anzisha Prize fellowship program, we help entrepreneurs navigate challenges, refine their strategies, and achieve their visions, fostering a vibrant and innovative business landscape in Africa.

Moyo emphasizes the importance of relinquishing preconceived notions regarding the behaviour and mindset of entrepreneurs when one takes on the role of an entrepreneurship coach. She highlights that working with very young entrepreneurs (VYEs) necessitates an understanding of their varied backgrounds and maturity levels.  “It is essential for coaches to adjust their approach to align with the entrepreneurs’ comprehension, enabling them to identify and address their specific contextual challenges effectively,” shares Moyo.

Engaging with young entrepreneurs can be immensely fulfilling, yet it presents its own unique challenges. “As a coach, you will wear multiple hats such as cheerleader, thought partner, teacher, listener, connector, and voice of reason,” adds Moyo, “As the relationship with an entrepreneur deepens over time, the coach’s responsibilities evolve beyond mere problem-solving, requiring a continuous adaptation to meet the changing needs of the entrepreneur.”

Entrepreneurial coaching unleashes untapped potential and supports growth in a dynamic and ever-changing business environment. Coaching is beneficial to the entrepreneur in the following ways:

1. Focusing on what’s important. Coaching helps in identifying and prioritising the essential aspects of an entrepreneur’s professional and personal traits, values, and purpose. Receiving constant random “advice” from stakeholders and colleagues can be perplexing. However, a coach helps in achieving balance by asking profound questions about life, relationships, and friendships. Their aim is to uncover a set of core values and personality attributes that will purposefully reorient the entrepreneur when they need it and get you back into the game.
2. Spotting weaknesses and blindsides. As a coach, you assist the entrepreneur and guide them to spotting any weaknesses and blind spots that they may not be aware of. This prepares your client to address future threats and challenges effectively.
3. Competitive edge. Self-awareness is crucial for staying ahead of the game. It helps an entrepreneur discover answers to questions they may not have considered before. Coaching helps an entrepreneur build the confidence to take bigger risks and achieve higher goals for themselves and their business.
4. Refinement and enrichment. Coaching can help an entrepreneur refine themselves and their ideas, stacking the odds in their favour. This can enrich the entrepreneur both professionally and personally.
5. Influence and thought leadership. People are naturally drawn to individuals of power and influence. Coaching can help an entrepreneur gain influence and become thought leaders. A leader who supports the community and serves as a source of inspiration is particularly compelling.

Through effective coaching, entrepreneurs not only enhance their business acumen but also contribute to sustainable economic development across the continent. Coaching provides them with the skills and knowledge necessary to overcome obstacles and seize opportunities, fostering a culture of innovation and resilience. This ripple effect extends beyond individual success, as they create jobs, drive local economies, and inspire others to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.