I consider that I have always been an innovator. For as long I can remember, I have always looked at problems as things that can be solved: opportunities for lucrative ventures.
This past weekend, I was invited to speak with STEM students from the Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences, the Malawi University of Science and Technology, and the University of Malawi.
As I prepared to speak with the students on the theme Living as an Innovator, I reflected on my own entrepreneurial and professional journey—how I started, what I’ve built, and where I see innovation taking me and the next generation of creators.
Innovation to me is more than just a buzzword; it is a way of life. It is about seeing the world through a different lens, challenging conventional norms, and continuously adapting to new challenges and opportunities.
Defining Innovation: The Mindset Shift
Many people think of innovation as an advanced technological breakthrough or an entirely new invention. However, innovation is not just about building the next big tech product; it is about solving problems in ways that others haven’t thought of.
For me, innovation has always been about bridging worlds—whether it’s combining creativity and advocacy, business and social impact, or technology and education. It’s about looking at what exists, finding gaps, and creating meaningful solutions.
My Entrepreneurial Timeline: The Path of an Innovator
My journey in innovation and entrepreneurship didn’t start overnight—it has been a process of trial, learning, and refining. Here’s how my journey unfolded:
2013-2016: The Foundations of Creativity
During my undergraduate years, I realized the power of storytelling, content creation, and digital media. While my degree was in economics and demography, I was drawn to how creativity could be used as a tool for advocacy and business. I started blogging and experimenting with digital branding, unknowingly planting the seeds for future ventures.
2017-2019: Building Ntha Foundation & Kwathu Kollective
Recognizing the lack of structured opportunities for creatives and entrepreneurs in Malawi, I founded Ntha Foundation, an organization dedicated to youth empowerment through creativity and advocacy. These platforms became a bridge for young professionals to gain digital and entrepreneurial skills. Simultaneously, I launched the Kwathu Kollective—a space designed to connect, empower, and nurture innovative talent.
2020-2022: Scaling Innovation & Entering Global Spaces
I expanded my work beyond Malawi, collaborating with global organizations like the World Bank and the United Nations. My time at the UNDP Independent Evaluation Office reinforced my understanding of evidence-based decision-making—which, in simple terms, means using data to drive impact. This was a turning point where I saw that my ability to merge creativity with data and policy-making was a competitive advantage.
2023-Present: Global Innovator
Now, as an MBA candidate and a leader in business and technology spaces, I am integrating my expertise into new industries like gaming, AI, and digital transformation. My work with Microsoft Xbox and other global organizations continues to shape my understanding of how innovation can be leveraged for scale and sustainability.
The Key Principles of Living as an Innovator
After years of navigating different industries and markets, I’ve come to recognize a few core principles that define a successful innovator:
1. Curiosity is Your Greatest Asset
Great innovators never stop asking questions. Why does this problem exist? How can it be solved differently? What are other industries doing that can be applied here? Always challenge the status quo.
2. Resilience: Innovation Requires Grit
Failure is an inevitable part of the process. Not every idea will succeed, but every failure brings valuable lessons. Innovation is about testing, iterating, and improving until you create something truly impactful.
3. Learn to Bridge Creativity with Data
As a creative, I initially saw data as an intimidating space reserved for technical experts. But working with international organizations and businesses has shown me that data-driven creativity is one of the most powerful tools an innovator can have. Whether it’s digital marketing, AI, or product design—understanding and leveraging data makes your innovation more strategic and scalable.
4. Your Network Determines Your Net Worth
Innovation does not happen in isolation. Surround yourself with thinkers, builders, and changemakers. The people you engage with will either challenge you to grow or keep you stagnant.
5. Innovate with a Purpose
Innovation for the sake of innovation is meaningless. True innovators solve real-world problems. Ask yourself: What problem am I solving? Who benefits from this? How can I ensure lasting impact?
The Future of Innovation: What Comes Next?
As AI, automation, and digital transformation continue to shape industries, the role of innovators will be more critical than ever. Here are a few key trends that will define the future of innovation:
AI-Powered Creativity
AI is not here to replace human creativity—it is here to enhance it. From AI-generated content to predictive analytics, innovators who learn how to integrate AI into their processes will have a competitive advantage.
Sustainable Innovation
The future belongs to solutions that balance profit with environmental and social impact. Entrepreneurs must think beyond short-term gains and design systems that contribute to long-term sustainability.
The Rise of the Global Digital Workforce
Borders are becoming less relevant in today’s digital economy. Innovators who position themselves with global skills—coding, digital marketing, product management—will be able to work and scale their ideas anywhere in the world.
Final Thoughts: The Call to Action
Innovation is not just a career path—it’s a way of approaching life. Whether you are an entrepreneur, a corporate professional, or a student, embracing an innovator’s mindset will open doors for you in ways you cannot yet imagine.
I encourage you to:
✅ Think bigger. Don’t limit yourself to what exists—create what’s missing.
✅ Take risks. Comfort zones don’t lead to innovation.
✅ Embrace learning. The best innovators are lifelong students.
✅ Build community. Success happens when people collaborate.
As you move forward, I hope you see yourself not just as a student or a professional but as an innovator shaping the future.
Always rooting for you,
Ntha
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