Leadership Spotlight on Technology and Marketing: Meet Tongayi Choto

In this edition of our Leadership Spotlight series, we had a Q&A with Tongayi Choto about his role as Co-founder & CEO of AfriBlocks.

Who are you, and what is your current role?

I am Tongayi Choto, a Zimbabwean-based software developer and the Co-founder & CEO of AfriBlocks, a Pan-African freelance talent marketplace where African freelancers can provide remote services worldwide.

AfriBlocks made history as the first Zimbabwean based startup to be accepted into TechStars Accelerator and also funded by Google Black Founders Fund.

In 2020, I was recognized as one of the Most Influential People of African Descent under 40. From  2018 - 2019, I served as Vice-Chair for the Science & Technology Sector for the African Union | Pan African Diaspora Youth Association. (African Union Representative To The USA) 

Based in Harare, Zimbabwe, I have built a track record as a leader and innovator in Africa's tech ecosystem. Most recently, serving as the lead Product Manager at BillMari, a pan-African fintech startup based in Washington DC, USA, and played a pivotal role in building the first platform to receive a Bitcoin remittance license from a federal reserve bank.   

Over the years, I have been a leader in the web3 and Blockchain space. My startup, AfriBlocks, is a co-host of the Black Blockchain Summit, an annual fintech summit that takes place in Washington DC USA, at Howard University. This year's third annual summit is taking place from 20-21 September 2024.

Before starting my professional career, I studied at the University of Zimbabwe, where I earned a BSc in Computer Science & Mathematics. 

Could you describe your goals and key accountabilities to get you there?

My primary goal is to position AfriBlocks as a leading global platform for African freelance talent. I am also focused on enhancing our technological capabilities by integrating AI to efficiently match projects and freelancers. Additionally, I advocate for supportive freelance policies in Africa and strive to establish AfriBlocks as a thought leader by engaging in key industry forums and publishing insightful research.

What is most rewarding about your role?

The most rewarding aspect of my role is the ability to directly impact and uplift the lives of African freelancers by providing them with global opportunities. It's incredibly fulfilling to see individuals leverage our platform to achieve financial independence and professional growth.

What are the biggest challenges you are facing in your role? What are the biggest lessons learned?

Challenges:

1. Market Expansion: Breaking into new markets while competing with established platforms.

2. Scalability: Enhancing technology to support a growing user base.
   
   

Lessons Learned:

1. Adaptability: Flexibility in strategy is vital.

2. Partnerships: Crucial for growth and overcoming challenges.

3. Community Engagement: Staying connected with user needs drives relevance. 
   
   
   

What advice would you give to your younger self?

I would advise my younger self to embrace every challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow. 

Build strong relationships and network actively, as these connections can open doors you never knew existed. Always keep your values in focus; they will guide you reliably through your choices and challenges.

How does the remote work environment impact your role?

This setup helps in fostering a diverse and innovative team culture where ideas can flourish without the constraints of physical borders. However, it also requires robust communication tools and strategies to ensure everyone remains connected and motivated.

How do you balance work life and personal life?

Balancing work and personal life involves setting clear boundaries and priorities. I make it a point to allocate specific times for work and strictly adhere to them, ensuring I disconnect after hours to spend quality time with family and friends. Regularly scheduling downtime helps to recharge and maintain productivity at work. 

What's the last thing that made you smile?

Where do you see yourself and your role in the future? What are you looking to accomplish?

In the future, I see myself continuing to lead and expand AfriBlocks, aiming to establish it as the foremost platform for freelance talent in Africa and beyond.

What's on your bucket list to do within the next five years?

Mostly traveling.

To support AfriBlocks and its mission to empower African freelancers, consider using the platform to hire talent for your projects. You can also help by spreading the word within your networks, partnering with us if you represent a corporation, and providing feedback to improve our services. Each contribution helps us expand opportunities for African professionals and promotes global diversity in the workforce.

The Aspiration Marketing team thanks you, Tongayi. We appreciate your time for this interview and look forward to continuing to mutually shape our organizations through this partnership with you. Additional spotlights include Leadership Spotlight on Marketing and Leadership Spotlight on Hospitality. They are part of our focus on Marketing Strategy.