About Us
We are passionate about transforming communities and strengthening the economy both in Scotland and in Zimbabwe, by creating links, opportunities, new networks, partnerships, marketing platforms, and supporting those wanting to travel or to do business between Scotland and Zimbabwe.
Who we are
We are a Social Enterprise and the premier network for the advancement of the Zimbabwean diaspora in Scotland that promotes Zimbabwe as a destination for trade and tourism, and delivers a membership programme for the Zimbabwean community and friends, associated businesses, stakeholders and supporters. Our mission is to promote and advance the socio-economic circumstances, welfare and wellbeing of Zimbabweans in Scotland by providing unique products and services that are important to them , and to raise awareness of Climate Change and Environmental issues in both countries. We offer business networking support aimed at transforming the communities and strengthening the economy both in Scotland and in Zimbabwe, by creating links, opportunities, new networks, partnerships, alternative business models and marketing platforms for enterprises, professionals and those wanting to do business in Zimbabwe. We support the Zimbabwean community more broadly, including families, students, older people, men and women, to access products, services and projects that will enhance their lives and wellbeing. All profits from operations will go back into developing the organisation or supporting the Zimbabwean community in Scotland and in Zimbabwe.
Our Story
ZIMSCOT was founded by Lydia Heather Mudhari, an international business woman, broadcaster, diplomat and social entrepreneur with many accolades to her name for her contribution to the diaspora, international and local communities.
As an immigrant in Scotland in the 2000s, Heather struggled to access products and services that were important to her. Accessing consular services and Zimbabwean products meant a costly long journey to London/Zimbabwe and with the Covid-19 travel restrictions, things became more difficult. In 2021 she devised and launched ZIMSCOT to provide easy access to many of the services she herself, and many of her friends in the Zimbabwean community, have wished for over the years. She decided to make a difference in a way that supports people exactly like her and improve the lives of the community she cares about. She saw the opportunity to combine her leadership role in the Zimbabwean community and her many years of experience in Broadcast Journalism, International Trade & Travel Consultancy, Events & Business Management, to create a network organisation that will promote and foster links between Zimbabwe and Scotland, whilst giving back to the community. Heather's vision of transforming communities and creating unique opportunities is at the heart of what we stand for today.
Our Vision
We envisions a thriving membership and link between Zimbabwe and Scotland where business between the two countries is supported by efficient and easily accessible services. We also strives for a thriving Zimbabwean community here in Scotland focussed around a go-to community hub offering practical benefits that enhance the socio-economic circumstances, welfare and wellbeing of our community.
Social Impact
We have created a go-to hub for Zimbabweans and friends in Scotland, (Zimbabwe House Scotland); to deliver services and projects that will enhance their lives and improve employability, and to support the community to undertake impactful projects including practical steps that significantly contribute to protecting the planet and combating climate change. We are establishing a network of members with whom we will deliver projects that impact the community and environment.
Inspired by COP26 in Glasgow which we fully participated in, our surplus profits will be invested back in the community through practical climate action aimed at projects and activities that reduce greenhouse gases as well as activities that reduce their concentration in the atmosphere. We will be participating in protecting, restoring and promoting sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss. Planned activities include a Tree planting project of a variety of 1000 fruit tree in collaboration with Grow A Tree Foundation.
