ZIMCN Investments Group chairman Collins Takunda Mnangagwa was among the standout winners at the Institute of Corporate Directors Zimbabwe (ICDZ) 40 Under 40 Innovative Business Leaders Awards held last Friday inHarare.
The awards, held under the theme “Innovate, Impact, Inspire,” celebrated emerging business leaders who are redefining success through both commercial performance and community impact.
Mnangagwa’s recognition in the 2026 edition underscores his growing influence in Zimbabwe’s corporate landscape, where he leads a diversified group with interests spanning mining, drilling and exploration, energy, and logistics.
Speaking after receiving the accolade, Mnangagwa described the honour as a call to sustained excellence.
“This award is a call to action for me and the entire ZIMCN team. While we have achieved a lot over the years, we remain committed to serving with passion, knowing we have a role to play in both community and national development,” he said.
ICDZ executive director Proctor Nyemba said the award recognises leadership rooted in professionalism, consistency and integrity.
“Engineer Collins presides over a diversified group operating in sectors where governance and responsible decision-making are critical. He has also demonstrated a strong commitment to uplifting less privileged communities through targeted interventions,” said Nyemba.
Mnangagwa emphasised that his leadership philosophy extends beyond business success to values such as discipline, resilience and service.
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“I believe in hard work, respect for others, giving back to the community, and maintaining a never-say-die spirit, even in difficult times,” he said.
He also dismissed the notion that influence can replace competence.
“Even where family support exists, it is not a substitute for competence. I have never treated influence as a shortcut or success as something that comes with a name,” he said.
Reflecting on his journey, Mnangagwa highlighted the importance of patience, mentorship and disciplined execution.
“I did not just wake up managing a diverse business portfolio. It has taken years of training, mentorship and business discipline to build what we have today. We have not arrived yet, but the results so far are encouraging,” he said.
He added that innovation and adaptability remain central to ZIMCN’s growth strategy.
“Over the years, we have continuously innovated and reinvented ourselves in line with evolving industry trends,” he said.
According to Nyemba, the ICDZ assessment also recognised Mnangagwa’s commitment to community development, aligning with a broader Pan-African leadership model that prioritises human dignity alongside economic growth.
“His approach is not only about profit, but about transformation — building enterprises that create value, drive social impact and expand opportunities for marginalised communities,” Nyemba said.
ZIMCN has implemented several community initiatives over the years, including food security programmes, road rehabilitation projects and life skills training.
“Our initiatives include food support programmes such as maize donations, youth empowerment through first aid and ambulance technician training, and assistance to small-scale miners through access to advanced equipment,” Mnangagwa said.
The group also supports disadvantaged families through partnerships with organisations such as the Twins Association of Zimbabwe and runs mentorship programmes for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Mnangagwa described his leadership style as disciplined yet grounded.
“I am strict in my professional approach but not arrogant. I value time and ensure tasks are completed to high standards, not for show, but because excellence matters. I believe in leading from the front, especially in key operations like mining and logistics,” he said.
The recognition, he added, reflects a broader message for young entrepreneurs.
“Progress must be credible, impact must be real, and character must remain central,” he said.
Looking ahead, Mnangagwa said his goal is to leave a lasting mark on Zimbabwe’s business and social landscape.
“My aim is to strengthen the business environment through legitimate ventures while empowering marginalised communities. I believe discipline, hard work, tenacity and faith have brought us this far, and the best is yet to come,” he said.
