Discover how Kudzai Tinago transformed from a solo photographer to the founder of Tigzozo Media, navigating Zimbabwe's challenging business landscape with faith, resilience, and a vision to create something greater than himself.
When Kudzai Tinago reflects on his early days as a freelance photographer, he acknowledges the simplicity that once defined his work. "Life was much simpler when I was self-employed and handled production work by myself," he notes. "I would do some work and keep all the gains to myself but my desire to build something greater than myself has got me here." That pivotal decision of choosing legacy over comfort has shaped one of Zimbabwe's most inspiring media success stories.
Born into a large Christian family where storytelling was a nightly tradition, Kudzai developed both the creative vision and interpersonal skills that would later become instrumental to his business approach. His faith remains central to his entrepreneurial journey. "My faith is not just part of my business, it is the foundation of everything I do," Kudzai explained. "It gives me a fearlessness that defies logic. Through Christ, I believe anything is possible." This perspective shapes how Kudzai views business outcomes; successes represent divine endorsement while challenges offer valuable lessons. When facing business obstacles, prayer is both his refuge and a strategic planning tool.
Kudzai launched his entrepreneurial path in 2018 with Kudzai Tinago Photography—a solo operation built with minimal resources of burning passion and a basic camera. By leveraging his professional network, he began offering photography services at modest rates, simultaneously building his portfolio and market reputation. This foundation later evolved into Tigzozo Media, a brand name inspired by his nickname "Tigz."
The limitations of operating alone soon became apparent, leading Kudzai to accept a position at Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA). While the steady income provided security, he maintained larger aspirations. His time at ADRA proved valuable for developing his storytelling expertise, as he documented community narratives that earned recognition and awards. This experience eventually gave him the confidence and skills to leap into full-time entrepreneurship in 2021.
Nothing ever prepared me for the complexities of running a business,
The transition from his previous experience as an independent creator to business owner presented significant challenges. Equipment requirements expanded, studio space became necessary, and most critically, building a team introduced new layers of responsibility and financial responsibility. "Nothing ever prepared me for the complexities of running a business," Kudzai admitted.
In Zimbabwe's competitive media landscape, Tigzozo Media differentiated itself through exceptional storytelling, genuine client relationships, and consistent high quality product delivery. The company established a strong reputation in the humanitarian and development sector, creating compelling documentaries and award-winning photography that showcased stories across Africa and beyond. This value proposition has fostered long-term partnerships rather than transactional relationships.
A significant test came in February 2025, when US funding for development projects was withdrawn. Financial support for Tigzozo's primary client base, the United Nations (UN) agencies and Non-governmental Organisations (NGOs), suddenly disappeared. Having recently invested in studio upgrades and vehicle improvements, the timing presented a significant challenge. Kudzai utilized savings while pivoting toward corporate clients, only to discover a different market reality that corporations offer lower rates that barely cover operational costs. Despite these obstacles, Kudzai has been implementing adaptive strategies to navigate his team through this financial uncertainty. "Business is not linear; it is cyclical. An understanding of this rhythm has saved me from a lot of anxiety," he highlighted.
His advice to emerging entrepreneurs is candid: "No one is coming to save you. You have to put in the work." He recommends gradual scaling rather than rapid expansion, emphasizing continuous experimentation. His Podbeat studio exemplifies this approach where an initially experimental venture now contributes significantly to the company's revenue diversification and sustainability.
What began as a one-person operation has grown into a team of skilled storytellers, each contributing unique perspectives to the company's vision. While challenges remain, they have evolved alongside Kudzai's capacity to address them. "I'm building this for the next generation of storytellers and that is something greater than myself," Kudzai affirmed.
