A HAIRDRESSER from Lundazi District in Zambia’s Eastern Province has won K20,000 after impressing judges at an entrepreneurs’ brunch held in Lusaka yesterday.
Cynthia Nkhoma, who also works as a crocheter, emerged as the top winner at the event organised by entrepreneur Sarah Mako, owner of Royalty Make Up and Hair and other businesses.
The competition saw participants pitch business ideas based on how they would invest K20,000, with judges assessing creativity, sustainability and long term impact.
Nkhoma stood out with her proposal to acquire a clothes making machine, a move she said would allow her to expand her business and increase production.
Judges, led by Great North Road Group of Companies chief executive officer Rozious Siatwambo said the winning idea demonstrated clear potential for growth.
“The focus was on identifying a business concept with long term value and the ability to make a meaningful impact,” said Dr Siatwambo.
Two other contestants were also recognised with one receiving an iPhone 7 Plus and another awarded a cash prize donated by Magoye Member of Parliament Nachombe Kabunda, among other supporters.
Speaking after her win, Nkhoma thanked the organisers for the opportunity.
“This has given me hope and motivation to grow my business. This feels like getting something from a silver platter. I travelled all the way from Lundazi hoping for the best and the best has happened.”
“I would like to thank Royalty for organising the event and the Entrepreneurs Financial Center (EFC) for the sponsorship,” said Nkhoma.
The event is part of broader efforts to support small scale entrepreneurs, particularly women, by providing funding and platforms to showcase their ideas.
Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprise Development permanent secretary Subeta Mutelo officiated the event and called on entrepreneurs to learn more about the opportunities found in the ministry.
Mutelo said the SME ministry was created specifically for entrepreneurs.
By Catherine Pule
Kalemba, April 13, 2026
