Zimbabweans are deeply committed to maintaining strong family and community connections, which might explain why it wasn't unusual for three sisters and their niece to embark on a joint business venture. Thenji Moyo, Nomagugu Moyo, Nomagugu Matshazi, and Shamiso Malvas, all part of the same family, established Moyoco Events in Dubai, registering the company in the IFZA Freezone. Their goal was to assemble a team capable of orchestrating spectacular events for significant life moments and special occasions.
“Our team of seasoned event planners is dedicated to crafting experiences that you and your guests will never forget. We help you breathe life into your event! And our mission is to celebrate with you,” explained co-founder Thenji, a British-born Zimbabwean lawyer in her forties who has resided in the UAE for 13 years and is a seasoned partner in an international law firm. She launched the events business alongside her younger sister.
In the legal sector, Thenji frequently finds herself organizing corporate events such as ladies’ golf days and networking sessions. Moyoco Events was born out of a profound passion for uniting people, a love for events that has been passed down through generations, according to Nomagugu, a South African/Zimbabwean in her 30s who is a teacher by profession. Known as Noma, she possesses exceptional organizational skills that are invaluable in the business and often takes on MC roles at weddings and corporate events due to her passion for public speaking.
“We come from a large extended family, and our late father had a natural flair for hosting unforgettable gatherings. Whether it was a family celebration or a community event, he always found joy in creating meaningful moments in unique ways. We felt the joy from these special moments and wanted to share that gift,” said Noma. “This passion laid the foundation for Moyoco Events, focusing on creativity, attention to detail, and a commitment to excellence, aiming to make every event as unique and special as the people attending. From grand birthday celebrations and engagements to corporate functions, our aim is to create experiences that are not just seen, but felt,” Noma added.
Nomagugu, the creative director of Moyoco Events in her late 20s, is the niece of the co-founders. She has a natural talent for creativity and is passionate about event decor, balloon arrangements, and planning unique experiences by sharing innovative ideas. “At Moyoco Events, we believe that every event tells a unique story, and we are here to help you tell yours in the most unforgettable way,” said Nomagugu.
Shamiso Malvas, a Zimbabwean/South African and full-time legal secretary, is a cousin of the co-founders and volunteers her free time to network and foster relationships that help grow the business. “The business environment in the UAE is very supportive of entrepreneurship. We were able to register our business swiftly and efficiently without much difficulty. The government has established a supportive ecosystem for entrepreneurship, with regulations that encourage investment and innovation,” said Malvas, highlighting the appeal of free zones offering benefits like tax exemptions and full ownership to all stakeholders of Moyoco Events.
“The UAE’s multicultural population offers a diverse consumer base, which we felt as a small family business would allow us to cater to various needs and preferences. We are all adept networkers, and the UAE hosts numerous networking opportunities that facilitate connections between small businesses and potential clients. These factors collectively create a thriving ecosystem for small businesses in the UAE, contributing to their growth and success,” said Thenji.
Starting a business with family can be both rewarding and challenging. It is crucial to define roles and responsibilities based on skills and interests. “Maintain open communication with regular check-ins to address concerns and keep everyone aligned. Set boundaries to know when to discuss business matters and when to focus on personal time. Be prepared for conflict; disagreements are natural. Approach conflicts constructively and be willing to compromise,” concludes Nomagugu.
