Lumbie Mlambo
(Founder & CEO of JB Dondolo)
Lumbie Mlambo, a Computer Science and Mathematics graduate from Indiana University South Bend and Texas Woman's University, is a passionate advocate for clean water access and women's empowerment. Raised in rural Zimbabwe, Lumbie was inspired by her orphaned father's humanitarian legacy to establish the nonprofit organization JB Dondolo, named after him.
As a Global Goals Ambassador and UN advocate, Lumbie utilizes her platform to address the worldwide challenges facing women and girls. Her dedication to making a difference has led her to volunteer for various initiatives, including serving as a Judge for Africa's Business Heroes (ABH) Competition, Hub Lead for the Tony Elumelu Foundation, and Advisor for Accelerate Africa. Additionally, she has been invited to speak at prestigious events such as the University of Arizona Forbes School of Business and Technology Center for Women's Leadership and World Water Day.
JB Dondolo, founded in 2016, is a social enterprise committed to removing barriers to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene in underserved communities. With a focus on empowering women and girls, JB Dondolo aims to break the cycle of poverty by providing access to essential resources and creating economic opportunities. Lumbie's efforts have garnered recognition, including the UN Global Leadership Award for Clean Water and Sanitation in 2019.
Driven by her personal experiences and the desire to transform lives, Lumbie envisions a future where access to clean water is no longer an obstacle to a better and more equitable life. Leveraging science, technology, and digital solutions, JB Dondolo pioneers innovative approaches to meet the pressing needs of underserved communities, empowering women and girls and fostering economic growth.
Reflecting on her journey, Lumbie draws strength from her parents, who were social entrepreneurs themselves and instilled in her a deep sense of purpose. She remains committed to her mission, continuously striving for improvement and innovation, and embracing the power of technology to drive positive change.
Lumbie's story is a testament to the transformative impact of individuals who follow their passion and support initiatives aligned with their values. Her message to others is clear: be true to yourself, pursue what you are passionate about, and never underestimate the role of women in society. Whether through personal initiatives or supporting the efforts of others, every contribution, no matter how small, can make a significant impact in improving lives and creating a more equitable world.
(Information from Lionesses of Africa, jbdondolo.org, Africa Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum)