Providing a platform for professionals across the continent to connect with industry leaders – Dr. Vumile Msweli.
Carob magazine talks to Pan Africanist leader, founder and CEO of Hesed consulting Dr. Vumile Msweli. She talks to Carob about her life, business and upcoming event, Africa career summit. The summit will see professionals all across Africa and industry leaders meet in one space to create the powerhouse continent that we all envision.
Carob Magazine Africa: Who is Vumile Msweli? Where were you born and how was it like growing up?
Vumile Msweli: I am an entrepreneur, philanthropist, proudly African and passionate about service. I come from a small township called Chesterville in Durban, South Africa. It is a place that is abuzz with a sense of community. I was raised by my mother and grandparents. I was especially close to my grandfather who was an entrepreneur. He was a kind, hard-working gentleman who always had time to be of service and support to others. I spent much of my childhood watching him build his business. As an adult, I am replicating what I grew up around as a child. I am a serial entrepreneur dabbling in personal services, education and retail. My journey is underpinned by a passion to learn.
Carob Magazine Africa: Tell us about Hesed Consulting. When and how was it founded? What services does the company offer?
Vumile Msweli: Hesed Consulting is a pan-African organization that specializes in human capital consulting, recruitment, training, coaching, and employee wellness. We facilitate leadership, executive, strategic, and operational learning and development skills within a global context. Our solutions and engagement model aim to educate and empower our clients to efficiently execute their goals. Our service offerings consist of coaching, training, and speaking. Our coaches and facilitators are experts who have
worked with senior executives, graduate employees, and managerial teams across various industries and countries. They use coaching techniques such as neuro-linguistic programming, negative emotional and transformational coaching in an interactive and engaging manner.
My career journey began in banking, from the contact center to an executive role. Becoming a career coach was born out of my frustration in my corporate career, where I faced challenges and wanted a coach who looked like me and understood my struggles. There were gaps I identified in myself, and I knew coaching could help close those gaps. A career coach aids people in achieving their career goals and gaining clarity on their career journey by equipping them with skills to overcome obstacles and succeed in their work. This is the service I have dedicated my time to—supporting people in their career journeys, overcoming obstacles, and finding fulfilling work.
Carob Magazine Africa: Hesed Consulting has a presence in Nigeria, South Africa, Botswana, Rwanda, and affiliates in Namibia, Ghana, and Uganda. What would you attribute the success of your company to?
Vumile Msweli: The success of Hesed Consulting can be attributed to a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within the African context, a commitment to empowering African professionals, and a focus on delivering tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of our clients. Our team’s expertise, dedication and passion for personal and professional development also play a crucial role. Additionally, our ability to build strong relationships and networks across the continent
has helped us expand our reach and impact.
Carob Magazine Africa: Tell us about your upcoming event, Africa Career Summit. What is it about and what kind of impact is it aimed at having for the continent of Africa?
Vumile Msweli: The Africa Career Summit is designed to provide a platform for professionals across the continent to gain insights, build skills, and connect with industry leaders. The summit will feature keynote speakers, panel discussions, and networking opportunities. It aims to equip attendees with the knowledge
and tools they need to advance their careers and contribute to Africa’s economic development. The impact we hope to achieve is to inspire and empower a new generation of African leaders who can drive positive change in their respective fields and communities. It is a space where people will have access to HR executives, thought leaders, information in order to accelerate their careers. We will also celebrate inspiring careers at the Awards.
Carob Magazine Africa: As someone who is well-traveled and has studied in different countries around the globe, what do you think Africa needs to do to become a leader in the global trade market?
Vumile Msweli: To become a leader in the global trade market, Africa needs to invest in education and skills development, infrastructure, and technology. It is essential to create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive by implementing supportive policies, improving governance, and ensuring political stability. Additionally, fostering regional integration and collaboration among African countries can strengthen our collective bargaining power on the global stage. Promoting innovation and entrepreneurship, as well as building strong international partnerships, will also be crucial.
Carob Magazine Africa: What is your biggest inspiration as a business person?
Vumile Msweli: My biggest inspiration as a business person is the desire to create positive change and impact in the lives of others. Seeing the transformation and growth of individuals and organizations I work with motivates me to continue pushing boundaries and striving for excellence. My family, particularly my grandfather’s entrepreneurial spirit, has also been a significant source of inspiration throughout my journey.
Carob Magazine Africa: Where do you see Hesed Consulting in 5 years from now?
Vumile Msweli: In five years, I see Hesed Consulting expanding its reach and impact across the African continent and beyond. We aim to be the go-to consulting firm for leadership and career development, known for our innovative solutions and commitment to empowering African professionals. I envision us having a more substantial presence in key markets, partnering with leading organisations, and continuing to drive positive change in the careers and lives of our clients. I see the impact of the Africa Career Summit
Carob Magazine Africa: What advice would you give to someone who is looking to venture into the same business as you? What qualities are important for them to become a success?
Vumile Msweli: For someone looking to venture into the same business, my advice would be to stay committed to your vision and purpose. Building a successful business requires resilience, perseverance, and a willingness to learn from failures. It is crucial to understand the needs of your clients and provide value through your services. Building strong relationships, continuously improving your skills, and staying adaptable in a changing market are also essential qualities for success.
Carob MagazineAfrica: Last but not least, please share with our Carob readers words of encouragement that you live by.
Vumile Msweli: You are the CEO of your career. You are responsible for where you find yourself in your journey and must lead the charge to where you want to be. Make the concerted effort to get the support you need to ensure you thrive in your career and life. There is a beautiful proverb in my mother tongue, isiZulu: “Indlela ibuzwa kwabaphambili,” which means “the route can be asked to those who have forged ahead before you.” To get to where you desire and to get to where you want to be, you must
seek counsel. The advice of others aids you in avoiding obstacles and evading errors through the wisdom that comes with experience. This knowledge has made me an eternal student, always eager to learn from others.