Startup Story
Thelma Chimbganda is a dynamic entrepreneur and leader in e-commerce, supply chain, and logistics, with over five years of impactful experience across Africa. As the CEO of Beyond Borders Logistics Group in Zimbabwe, founded in 2020, she has guided the company to become a significant player in the industry, delivering practical solutions in first- and last-mile logistics, warehousing, freight forwarding, and supply chain management. Her leadership is characterized by a focus on tackling industry challenges, enhancing operational efficiency, and continuously improving services to meet the unique needs of clients and stakeholders.
Thelma's educational background includes a Master’s in Strategic Management and a Certificate in Import and Export Logistics Management from the University of Cape Town, as well as being an alumna of the prestigious Stanford Seed. Her dedication to excellence has earned her several prestigious accolades, including: Business of the Year, presented by Dr. Tererai Trent, celebrated as one of Oprah Winfrey’s all-time favorite guests. Recognition in the Choiseul Africa 100, showcasing Africa’s most promising young leaders. Inclusion in the Top 100 Most Influential African Women in Supply Chain. Recognition among the Top 50 Women in Management in Africa.
As the President of Women in Logistics and Africa (WILA) Zimbabwe, Thelma is devoted to expanding opportunities for women in logistics and creating a supportive environment for female professionals in the sector. Her initiatives emphasize mentorship, skill development, and the promotion of equitable practices to strengthen the industry's overall capacity and diversity. In addition to her corporate and advocacy work, Thelma actively engages in advancing the logistics and supply chain sector by participating in industry discussions and sharing insights. Her grounded approach to leadership and problem-solving continues to inspire peers and professionals across the continent, fostering sustainable and effective practices within the supply chain ecosystem.
LoA spoke with the impact-driven Thelma Chimbganda about her entrepreneurial journey and her future vision for her business and brand.
“What sets Beyond Borders Logistics apart is our focus on solving real, everyday challenges for businesses in Africa, particularly MSMEs. We don’t just move goods—we enable growth.”
What does your company do?
We empower MSMEs and corporates to achieve sustainable, long-term success through streamlined procurement services, customized logistics solutions, and strategic partnerships. Beyond Borders Logistics (BBL) provides a comprehensive range of services, including procurement and sourcing, freight forwarding, customs clearing, project freight management, logistics contract consulting, import and export documentation, and last-mile delivery and courier services throughout Zimbabwe under the Tsoka brand. By covering a full spectrum of logistics services, BBL enables its clients to focus on core business activities without the burden of supply chain inefficiencies.
What inspired you to start your company?
The inspiration came from two key drivers: the struggles I saw and the potential I believed in. MSMEs in Zimbabwe and across Africa were dealing with high logistics costs, inefficiencies, and unreliable service providers. These challenges were stifling their growth, and I knew that without access to dependable logistics solutions, businesses couldn’t thrive. Beyond Borders Logistics was born to fill that gap. We focused on providing streamlined, affordable, and tech-driven solutions to support MSMEs, start-ups, and corporates alike. It wasn’t just about moving goods from A to B—it was about creating opportunities for businesses to scale and compete on a larger stage. The rise of e-commerce further inspired us to address last-mile delivery challenges. Under our TSOKA brand, we’ve brought smarter, more accessible delivery solutions to businesses and individuals, even in the most remote areas. Our goal has always been to empower trade, remove barriers, and make logistics a growth enabler for businesses across Africa.
“We’re not just in the logistics industry; we’re building the infrastructure that will drive Africa’s economic future, one delivery at a time.”
What makes your business, service or product special?
What sets Beyond Borders Logistics apart is our focus on solving real, everyday challenges for businesses in Africa, particularly MSMEs. We don’t just move goods—we enable growth. Our services are tailored to the unique needs of our clients, whether it’s sourcing and procurement, freight forwarding, or last-mile delivery through TSOKA.
Three things make us special:
Our Customer-Centric Approach
We prioritize understanding our clients’ needs and pain points. For MSMEs, logistics can make or break their business. We work closely with them to deliver affordable, reliable, and scalable solutions, ensuring they can focus on growth while we handle the complexities of supply chains.
Innovation and Technology
We embrace technology to drive efficiency. From real-time tracking to cloud-based systems and data-driven insights, we’ve made logistics smarter, more transparent, and accessible. Our focus is on bringing world-class solutions to African businesses without the high price tag.
Our Commitment to Impact
Beyond Borders Logistics isn’t just a business; it’s a mission. Through community initiatives like Dignity for All and partnerships with MSMEs, we are building a business ecosystem where small and large players can thrive. Our tagline, ‘We keep delivering so that life can move forward,’ perfectly captures our purpose—because when businesses succeed, families, communities, and economies move forward too.
We’re not just in the logistics industry; we’re building the infrastructure that will drive Africa’s economic future, one delivery at a time.
Tell us a little about your team
Our team is the heartbeat of Beyond Borders Logistics. We are a close-knit group of professionals who share a common vision: to keep delivering so that life can move forward. What makes our team special is our mix of skills, passion, and unwavering commitment to solving challenges for our clients.
We operate with a lean but highly efficient structure across our Harare and Bulawayo branches. Each person plays a critical role, whether it’s managing procurement, coordinating freight operations, ensuring customs compliance, or delivering packages through our TSOKA last-mile service.
The beauty of our team is in its diversity—everyone brings something unique to the table. We have experienced logistics professionals, problem-solvers who thrive under pressure, and team members with a deep understanding of MSMEs and what it takes to help them grow.
We’re big on collaboration and shared responsibility. I believe that leadership isn’t just about guiding a team; it’s about empowering each individual to see themselves as part of something bigger. That’s why we invest in training, professional development, and fostering a culture where every team member feels heard, valued, and motivated to excel.
As we grow and expand into cross-border transportation and new markets, we’re also laying the foundation for building a larger, more dynamic team. We’re not just looking for employees; we’re looking for people who are passionate about innovation, impact, and shaping the future of logistics across Africa.
At BBL, we move more than goods—we move together as a team, delivering solutions that make businesses thrive and lives better.
Share a little about your entrepreneurial journey. And, do you come from an entrepreneurial background?
My entrepreneurial journey is a story of resilience, resourcefulness, and learning on the go. Growing up in Chitungwiza, I witnessed firsthand what it meant to be an entrepreneur through my father. He was a true visionary, juggling multiple businesses, including furniture manufacturing, the kombi transport industry, and even starting a school. Each of those ventures had its challenges, and I saw him face setbacks that would make many people give up. But he never did—he kept finding a way to move forward, and that left a lasting impression on me.
My father’s entrepreneurial spirit was coupled with my mother’s discipline as a schoolteacher. She managed to balance so much with limited resources, always teaching us the importance of hard work, education, and integrity. That environment taught me that there’s no shame in starting small as long as you start, and that grit and perseverance are non-negotiable if you want to succeed.
As for me, entrepreneurship started as something I did on the side growing up. Whether it was small hustles to earn extra income like selling burgers at University or finding creative ways to solve problems, I always had that entrepreneurial curiosity. I entered the corporate world, working in Business Development, Marketing, and Public Relations, where I learned to maximize limited budgets and creatively build value.
The major shift happened during the COVID-19 pandemic. Businesses—especially MSMEs—were struggling with logistics, and I saw a massive gap in the market. Together with my sister Michelle, I took a leap of faith and launched Beyond Borders Logistics from our parents' living room. We started with nothing but a vision, determination, and a belief that we could make logistics accessible, affordable, and reliable for businesses across Africa.
So, yes, I come from an entrepreneurial background, but my journey is also my own. It’s been about building something that solves real problems, drives impact, and creates opportunities for others. Every milestone we hit, whether it’s launching our TSOKA last-mile delivery service, reaching our 100th consolidated container, or empowering MSMEs, reminds me of where I started and why I keep pushing forward.
Entrepreneurship, to me, isn’t just about business—it’s about building something bigger than yourself and creating a legacy that moves others forward.
What are your future plans and aspirations for your company?
The future of Beyond Borders Logistics Group is bold and transformational. Our vision is to drive the digitalization of logistics and e-commerce across Southern Africa, creating seamless, tech-driven systems that make trade more efficient, transparent, and accessible.
We are expanding our cross-border transportation services with haulage trucks to strengthen trade routes within the region. This will allow businesses of all sizes to move goods reliably and cost-effectively across borders, unlocking opportunities for regional integration and economic growth.
On the e-commerce front, we are working on introducing smart delivery solutions that bridge the gaps between businesses and consumers, even in underserved areas. By leveraging technology—real-time tracking, automated systems, and data-driven tools—we aim to make last-mile delivery faster, smarter, and more responsive to customer needs.
Our long-term aspiration is to become the backbone of trade in Africa, connecting markets and empowering MSMEs, corporates, and individuals alike. Southern Africa has immense potential, and our goal is to create an ecosystem where businesses can scale confidently, supported by a logistics partner that’s as committed to their growth as they are. We keep delivering because when businesses move, economies thrive, and lives improve.
“Entrepreneurship, to me, isn’t just about business—it’s about building something bigger than yourself and creating a legacy that moves others forward.”
What gives you the most satisfaction being an entrepreneur?
The most satisfying part of being an entrepreneur is seeing the tangible impact of our work. When we started Beyond Borders Logistics, the dream was simple: to solve real problems and empower businesses to grow. Today, when I see MSMEs expanding because they trust us to handle their supply chain, or a customer receiving their goods on time through TSOKA, I know we’re making a difference.
I also find great satisfaction in creating opportunities—not just for businesses but for people. Building a team, watching individuals grow in their roles, and seeing their contributions shape the success of the company is incredibly fulfilling. Entrepreneurship allows me to be part of something bigger than myself, a legacy of service, innovation, and transformation.
Lastly, I love the challenge. Every day as an entrepreneur is different, and every obstacle we face teaches us something new. It’s not always easy, but the journey—learning, adapting, and making an impact—is what keeps me going. When I hear our tagline, ‘We keep delivering so that life can move forward,’ it’s a constant reminder of our purpose, and that gives me immense satisfaction."
What's the biggest piece of advice you can give to other women looking to start-up?
My biggest advice to women looking to start up is this: just start. Don’t wait for the perfect moment, the perfect resources, or the perfect idea because those rarely exist. Start where you are, with what you have, and trust your ability to figure things out as you go.
As women, we sometimes feel we need to have everything lined up or 100% figured out before we take the first step. I’ve learned that progress comes from action, not perfection. When my sister Michelle and I started Beyond Borders Logistics, we didn’t have fancy offices or big funding. What we did have was a vision, a willingness to work hard, and a belief that we could make a difference.
Second, don’t shrink yourself. The business world can feel intimidating, but your voice, ideas, and perspective are powerful. Use them unapologetically. Surround yourself with people who believe in you—mentors, partners, and even clients—and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Finally, stay resilient. Challenges will come, and there will be moments when doubt creeps in. But remember: every setback is a lesson, and every failure is part of the process. Keep showing up, keep learning, and keep moving forward.
You belong at the table, and if there isn’t one, build your own. Women have an unmatched ability to see opportunities, solve problems creatively, and drive change. The world needs more of that energy, and there’s no better time to start than now.
Find out more
Email: thelma@bblogisticsgroup.com
Website: http://www.bblogisticsgroup.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Fu9pjAn6j/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Why LoA loves it…
Africa needs great logistics to enable businesses to efficiently move their goods across countries and the continent. But for entrepreneurs with small to medium-sized businesses, that can present a challenge, and can often impede growth potential. That’s where Thelma Chimbganda, founder of Beyond Borders Logistics is a real game-changer. She is creating practical and efficient solutions for entrepreneurs to move their goods to key customers, and in the process is helping them drive the growth of their businesses and their local economies. This is an impact-driven business to watch over the coming months and years. — Melanie Hawken, founder & ceo, Lionesses of Africa