Dorus Silwizya
Lusaka
Summary
Dynamic and results-driven Senior Innovation Associate and 2025 Mandela Washington Fellow, specializing in Human-Centered Design and Lean Startup methodologies within diverse, fast-paced environments. Proven expertise in crafting and executing impactful program strategies that meet project deadlines and deliver significant outcomes. A commitment to continuous learning and a positive mindset drives innovation and adaptability in a rapidly evolving landscape. Skilled at cultivating strong, collaborative relationships with stakeholders and partners, fostering an atmosphere of open communication and teamwork that enhances project success.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Innovation Associate
BongoHive Innovation Limited
06.2023 - Current
- Identifying opportunities for innovation and aligning them with BongoHive's mission to co-create sustainable solutions leveraging technology, innovation and entrepreneurship to unlock Africa's potential.
- Leading and supervising two Junior Innovation Associates in managing the application of Human-Centered Design methodologies across various sectors, ensuring project objectives are met by coordinating cross-functional teams, managing timelines, and delivering innovative solutions that enhance customer satisfaction and product usability.
Innovation Associate
BongoHive Innovation Limited
07.2022 - 05.2023
- Enhance consulate services by streamlining processes and implementing innovative strategies.
- Lead project management and coordinate the development of work plans, deliverables, and activities.
- Manage internal and external client relationships and cultivate new relationships to support innovation priorities.
- Leverage BongoHive Consult’s unique data to power innovative approaches to address business challenges.
- Support the application and extension of project work using the latest corporate, social, and student-led innovations.
- Support startups and corporations with business development, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
AfriLabs Project Lead
Jacaranda Hub
02.2022 - 07.2022
- Liaison officer for all AfriLabs communications and activities.
- Coordinate the 2022 AfriLabs Annual Gathering, focusing on inter-Africa connectivity, collaboration, and innovation.
- Initiate sponsorship proposals and secure funding for the gathering from both local and international institutions.
- Compile weekly reports for review by the AfriLabs Secretariat in Nigeria on the Zambian status quo towards the gathering.
Research Assistant
FHI360 Zambia
05.2021 - 12.2021
- Company Overview: USAID Youth Lead Project
- Facilitate focus group discussions for the Youth Lead end evaluation project.
- Coordinate Lusaka Youth Champions and relevant stakeholder engagement meetings.
- Support the development of research-backed advocacy messages.
- Facilitate engagement meetings between youth and stakeholders in the Youth Lead project.
Project Assistant
ActionAid Zambia
06.2020 - 03.2021
- Lead liaison for programs and relevant units on all project activities.
- Facilitate the implementation of the Zero Violence (C190) project with the Ministry of Labor and Social Security.
- Liaison for all meetings, events, and logistical arrangements.
Youth Leader
FHI360 Zambia
01.2019 - 06.2020
- Co-team lead for the governance capstone project, strengthening civic participation for people living with disabilities in Kanyama township.
- Mobilized and facilitated capacity-building training and workshops on civil rights.
- Volunteered as part of YADIZ, training 120 young people living with disabilities in Kanyama township in civic participation.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Development Studies
University of Zambia
03.2019
Skills
- Computer skills
- Leadership qualities
- Decision-making
- Client engagement
- Cross-functional teamwork
- Strategy development
- Complex Problem-solving
- Relationship building
- Courteous and professional
Accomplishments
Mandela Washington Fellow Representative - Closing Ceremony Speaker, July 2025
BongoHive Innovation Limited - Beyond The Call of Duty Award, December 2023
Languages
English
Proficient
C2
Zambian local languages
Advanced
C1
ICT Skills
- Knowledgeable in MS Office Suite (Power Point: advanced; Word: advanced; Excel: good)
- MS Teams: advanced
- Collaborative and whiteboarding tools: advanced
Certifications
- Keough School of Global Affairs, University of Notre Dame - Certificate of Completion in Leadership in Business Institute, July 2025
- Mendoza School of Business, University of Notre Dame - Certificate of Completion in Capstone Simulation, July 2025
- BeRelevant Leadership Academy - Service Delivery Leadership, December 2022
- Kectil Youth Leadership Program - Certificate of Excellence, October 2022
- National Youth Development Council - Entrepreneurship Masterclass, August 2022
- World Youth Alliance Africa - Certified Training Program - July 2022
- Mckinsey Academy - Mckinsey Forward Program, February 2021
References
Mr. Simunza Muyangana
Director Innovation and Entrepreneurship BongoHive Technology and Innovation Hub 6th Floor, ZEP-RE Business Park, Alick Nkhata Road, Mass Media, Lusaka
simunza@bongohive.co.zm
Mr. Brian Chipasha
Senior Training Coordinator, National Youth Development Council
16th Floor Independence Avenue, New Government Complex, Lusaka
chipashabrian@gmail.com
Mrs. Natasha Mawila Chipoya
The University of Lusaka
Leopards Hill Campus
mawilanatasha@unilus.ac.zm
Timeline
Senior Innovation Associate
BongoHive Innovation Limited
06.2023 - Current
Innovation Associate
BongoHive Innovation Limited
07.2022 - 05.2023
AfriLabs Project Lead
Jacaranda Hub
02.2022 - 07.2022
Research Assistant
FHI360 Zambia
05.2021 - 12.2021
Project Assistant
ActionAid Zambia
06.2020 - 03.2021
Youth Leader
FHI360 Zambia
01.2019 - 06.2020
Bachelor of Arts - Development Studies
University of Zambia
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