Zuhura Uhadi, a determined agro-processing engineer and passionate disability advocate from Tanzania, has taken another significant step in her journey to drive social impact and inclusivity. Living with severe scoliosis, Zuhura has dedicated her life to empowering individuals facing similar challenges, founding The Curved Spine Initiative, an NGO focused on scoliosis awareness and advocacy. Through her efforts, she’s been spreading vital knowledge and fostering inclusivity within her community.
Zuhura recently celebrated a milestone achievement as she was selected to join the Mastercard Foundation’s Fund for Alumni Start-ups in Transition (FAST) Cohort 1. She joins 59 other young African entrepreneurs in this initiative, aimed at nurturing youth-led start-ups with training, mentorship, and financial support.
Over the next six months, Zuhura will receive $4,500 to establish and expand her social enterprise: an avocado oil processing business that aims to boost fair economic opportunities for local farmers while addressing post-harvest losses. With this funding, she plans to enhance her production capacity, helping small-scale farmers earn sustainable income and strengthen local supply chains.
Reflecting on this transformative opportunity, Zuhura expressed gratitude to YALI, TUSSAA, the US Embassy, and the Mastercard Foundation. She is excited to channel this support into building a sustainable future, uplifting livelihoods, and leaving a lasting, positive impact on her community.
Through her vision and resilience, Zuhura is paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable society, showing that with determination and support, barriers can be transformed into pathways for change.
