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Thelma

Our local advisor and partner
Thelma Venichand is one of those rare individuals in life who combines the vision, passion and determination required to succeed as an entrepreneur. After studying the disastrous human and environmental costs of charcoal, Thelma established Zoe Enterprises in 2007 and commenced sale of clean cookstoves and ethanol fuel through a network of retail stores in Maputo.


Integrity and Commitment
Born and raised in Mozambique, Thelma has been heavily involved in business her entire life. In the early 80s, she learned the world of business from her father, who managed a flour mill, cinema and bakery throughout the civil war.

Whilst undertaking her bachelor’s degree at the American University in Washington DC, Thelma set up and secured resources for a scholarship fund for Mozambican women to earn their college degrees in Mozambique. Thelma has also led significant development initiatives in Mozambique in the agriculture, household energy and education sectors.

Thelma is highly regarded within Mozambique and beyond, for her integrity, capability and commitment to improving the lives of her fellow citizens. Thelma now serves as an advisor to CleanStar, whilst continuing to manage Zoe Enterprises, who are a core partner of CleanStar in the continuing development of the clean cooking industry in Mozambique.