“Just choose yourself…” with social entrepreneur Elizabeth Mhangami

More Than Work

his week’s guest is Elizabeth Mhangami, social entrepreneur.

Lizz grew up in Zimbabwe and moved to the US when she was 19. After working in various jobs including at the Chicago Athletic Foundation, she also earned her bachelor’s degree at Loyola University. She then started the job that would define her career so far, working with young people from underserved communities.

Prior to moving to the states the first time, Lizz was part of the Rotary international as a youth. Her later work with Rotaract started her thinking more about youth communities, especially at home. She founded Vanavevhu, a 5013c for kids in Zimbabwe, many who are heads of household. She ran the organization for 7 years and has handed over the day to day operations. Now, she is back in the US and heading up major gifts at the Mikva Challenge in Chicago.

We talk about her childhood through adulthood and the influences and experiences that led to to a path of working in and leading service organisations.

Topic we discuss:

• Youth service organizations
• Impact of having a mother who was engaged in service
• Immigrating to the US
• Poverty in America
• Working with underserved communities
• Being a founder and what that entails

Note from Rabiah (Host):

This conversation was a long time coming since Lizz and I became acquaintances, virtually, and would often joke around but then would also get into serious conversations. It was a pleasure to bring this experience to More Than Work to share with you! She is a wonderfully interesting and intelligent person who has dedicated her career to serving youth. I learned so much about her experiences moving to the US from Zimbabwe and you will too. I hope you enjoy this insightful and also joyful discussion. Maybe it’ll inspire you too.

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Find Elizabeth

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emhangami/

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Mentioned in this episode:

Vanavevhu: http://www.vanavevhu.org/

Rotary International: https://www.rotary.org/en

bell hooks: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bell_hooks

Mikva Challenge: https://mikvachallenge.org/

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