Tinashe Mutarisi: From Humble Beginnings to Zimbabwean Business Leader

 

Born: 21 April (in Wedza, Zimbabwe)
Founder & Executive Chairman: Nash Holdings (Nash Paints, Nash Furnitures, NashTV, and more) 

Early Humble Beginnings

Raised in a polygamous family of 27 children, Mutarisi lost both parents at a young age. He and his siblings overcame hardships — from molding bricks to having retail jobs — just to complete their education

Building a Paint Empire

  • 2006: Launched a dilapidated paint outlet called Nash Paints in Chitungwiza with just three staff members 

  • Expanded the brand into manufacturing and distribution, with over 30–36 branches and 500+ employees across Zimbabwe, Botswana, and South Africa 

  • Under NASH Holdings, he also heads subsidiaries such as Eastlea Paints, Nashrin Cargo Carriers, Avion, Spec Paints, Fishmongers Penman, Coloursel Furnishers, and Project56 Construction

Entrepreneur with Academic Drive

Beyond primary and secondary schooling in rural Zimbabwe, Mutarisi pursued an MBA from Marjon University, UK 

Luxury & Lifestyle

A show of his success, Mutarisi acquired a Tesla Model X (reported value up to US $750,000 in 2018), stirring significant attention

Awards & Recognition

  • Top Business Leader of the Year (Paint & Construction) – 2016

  • Megafest Businessman of the Year – 2016

  • Young Leader of the Year (Zimbabwe Institute of Management) – 2017 

  • Quality Man of the Year (Standards Association of Zimbabwe) – 2018

Philanthropy & Cultural Engagement

He supports local arts through House of Hope Foundation and Tinashe Mutarisi Trust, backing initiatives like Bustop TV, events for Jah Prayzah, and community development in education and entertainment

Why His Story Matters

Tinashe Mutarisi stands out as a self-made entrepreneur who built a powerful business empire from the ground up — with no major inherited advantages — and has used his platform to uplift communities, embrace innovation, and leave a legacy in Zimbabwe’s business landscape.

Final Take

Tinashe Mutarisi’s trajectory — from early hardship to founding Nash Holdings — mirrors the spirit of modern African entrepreneurship: bold, resilient, and socially minded. His influence continues to stretch across industries, making him a key figure for emerging business leaders in Zimbabwe and the region.

 

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