AGAINST ALL ODDS:

Starting a daycare from scratch is no small feat. When millions of African women transform their passions into profit (often in the face of extreme personal and professional hurdles), they push through the initial spark of inspiration because of a deep desire to serve their communities. For Kunda Wami Chilwesa, a Cohort 5 alumna, the spark into childcare and early childhood education was kindled with unwavering love for children and a fervent desire to create a safe, nurturing haven for them. Despite confronting academic and personal hurdles, including a battle with postpartum depression, Wami persisted and is taking Zambia’s childcare industry by storm.

A Pragmatic Optimist

Wami initially dreamed of becoming a chartered accountant and property owner, so pivoting into childcare came as a surprise both to her and her family. As she aptly puts it, "My husband was skeptical because of our backgrounds in accounting." Motherhood redirected her toward early childhood education, with her affection for children as her guiding light. Empowered by her two children, she overcame initial uncertainties, diligently pursuing qualifications in childcare management. The husband/wife duo faced all challenges head-on and brought a unique balance to their partnership—he was the pragmatic voice asking the tough questions, while she was the eternal optimist, believing that everything would work out.

They understood that childcare was not merely a business—it was a responsibility, a duty to safeguard the well-being of children entrusted to their care. Their approach was both professional and personal. They delved into the intricacies of childcare safety protocols, ensuring they adhered to the highest standards in the industry.

Wami’s navigation of the childcare and education space has been characterized by resilience and adaptability. Despite early financial challenges and the struggle to attract parents, she persevered and sought stable financing options. 

Wami's story showcases her passion for helping working parents balance their responsibilities through her business, which operates 24 hours a day. Little Sweethearts Daycare Centre offers online booking and enrollment, chat support with caregivers and doctors, real-time updates, CCTV surveillance, flexible payment options, and convenient locations in shopping malls. It provides both drop-in and subscription-based childcare services, showcasing her dedication to innovation and excellence in entrepreneurship. She renewed her commitment to providing comprehensive childcare, learning from medical professionals, and incorporating their advice.

Her tech-approach in the business led her to competing in the Standard Chartered's Future Changemakers Program in Tech program. She impressed judges with her ingenuity and plans to use tech systems in the daycare, and her compelling pitch won a $10,000 grant!