1. Tell us a bit about yourself.
I’m a Female founder based in South Africa with more than 15 years as an Entrepreneur spanning Industries like Construction, Mining, and now Health Technology. I have spoken on Entrepreneurship at Global stages like the World Bank, Harvard Business School, Oxford Business School, and GIBBS. I am passionate about utilising entrepreneurship as a vehicle to solve problems in our African continent and globally.
2. What work do you do?
Welo Health operates in HealthTech, solving the problem of access to health by merging human touch and Technology. I’m the CEO and founder of Welo Health.
3. How long have you been in the industry?
Since 2024.
4. Has your work always been your passion? Tell us why.
My passion has always been to solve African problems through entrepreneurship and Covid ushered me to solve health problems through entrepreneurship and Innovation. We not only offer services but we touch on impact and changing of lives. Our mission is to bring back dignity and convenience in the way that people access healthcare. We are on the exciting trajectory of merging human touch and Technology to accelerate health access for the people who need it the most.
5. Being a woman in the industry – what does it take?
It takes grit, tenacity, leadership, and a continuous path to learning. It also takes a lot of self-introspection and admitting that there is no balance, you only have to strive to prioritise and ensure that you never drop your glass balls…only drop rubber balls. My glass balls are family, my team, and our vision at Welo Health.
6. What has been the most difficult challenge of your career?
Access to good talent, hiring the right people to build with, and ability to afford the right talent. The other challenge was being taken seriously in the often male-dominated Tech Industry where females receive less than 2% in funding. One had to break through ceilings and misconceptions to attain respect in the Ecosystem and I believe these are challenges faced by other female entrepreneurs.
7. What advice do you have for other women in your industry?
Learn your craft, surround yourself with a good team, and always be executing. Empower other women around you as you climb the ladder. Operate with integrity and learn to say no to distractions that do not serve the vision of your Company. Be assertive and do not be afraid of taking up space.
8. Plans for the future?
Africa expansion, global expansion, and more collaborations and partnerships in building an African HealthTech giant that solves Health problems in real-time.
To get in touch with Zanele, you can email her at zanele@welo.health or call 061-5197419
