It is often said that life’s toughest setbacks lead to the biggest breakthroughs. This is exactly how things unfolded for Chuma Memela: unemployment became the catalyst that sparked his innovative business model.

After graduating at the top of his class, Memela was unable to find employment and faced an uncertain future. Instead of losing faith in his abilities, he used his skills to create a digital innovation that is transforming how professionals interact with clients.

Graduate unemployment is a reality in South Africa. Transitioning from university to the workforce often brings anxiety and frustration, leaving graduates in situations of uncertainty and doubt. But many young graduates turn this anxiety into an opportunity, as evidenced by the story of Gambo, the name Memela chose for his business solution. For him, that transition ultimately led to success as an entrepreneur.

Memela graduated from the University of Fort Hare with a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics and Information Systems. He also completed an Honours degree in Information Systems, graduating with distinction and ranking number one in his class. However, even with his academic success, he experienced the harsh realities of being jobless. He pursued opportunities to lecture, but this was short-lived as his contract at the university ended.

"When my contract was not renewed, I had to find a way to support myself," Memela recalls. "I began offering consulting services and learning new skills such as artificial intelligence, Canva and website design. It was at this time that I decided to turn my skills into a business."

That decision marked the beginning of Gambo, which Memela describes as "Uber for Experts". Gambo is a digital platform where professionals can connect with clients seeking specialised advice, allowing users to receive expert consultation in as little as 15 minutes.

"The idea behind Gambo came from my own inconsistent experiences with freelance work," Memela explains. "I soon realised that many graduates were experiencing similar issues. With Gambo, professionals can list their skills, availability and services on one platform. Clients can then book and pay for their services directly, eliminating the obstacles associated with traditional consulting services."

After joining the Business Incubator Programme at Unisa subsidiary Inhlanyelo Hub, Memela's journey gained further momentum. "It has been a highly structured and rewarding experience," Memela states. "From the time we applied to be part of the programme, we received clear communication. Interviews followed, then selection, onboarding and mentorship. My mentor, Dr Gary Smith, has been fantastic. We meet once a week, and I've learnt a great deal about strategy, growth and business development."

Although Memela had previously taken part in various programmes supporting entrepreneurs, he felt that the approach offered by Inhlanyelo Hub was refreshingly practical. "In some programmes, you're left to figure things out on your own," he notes. "However, here the team is actively involved and provides ongoing support and consistency. They do not promise fame, but they give you the means to create something lasting."

Memela first learnt about Inhlanyelo Hub during a 2023 workshop led by Phumelele Mokoena, SME Development Manager at Inhlanyelo Hub, as part of the Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) competition. The session made a lasting impression.

"Mr Mokoena presented an inspiring session," he recalls. "He showed us how to present our ideas effectively and think strategically about our businesses. That experience encouraged me to stay connected with the Hub, and when I later saw their incubation opportunity, I immediately applied."

Today, Gambo continues to evolve as a platform designed to enable both professionals and clients to benefit from the simplicity, security and innovation it offers. Running Gambo is not just about running a business for Memela; it is about revolutionising the exchange of expertise in the digital era.

He reflects, "Entrepreneurship has taught me that the largest opportunities often arise from personal struggles. What was initially a challenge to find consistent employment has evolved into a solution to help others who may be facing the same type of issue."

As he moves forward, Chuma Memela remains committed to expanding Gambo and establishing it as a pioneering African innovation within the digital consulting industry. His journey from unemployed graduate to vision-driven founder serves as a testament to the boundless potential and resilience of young South African entrepreneurs.

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* Submitted by the Inhlanyelo Hub