TribesAndHistory:
Thank you so much for joining us today, Clara. To start, what’s your full name, and how would you like us to address you?

Clara:
Thank you for having me! Clara Mwenda is fine.

TribesAndHistory:
Great! And how can people connect with you online? Do you have LinkedIn, Instagram, or a personal website?

Clara:
Sure! My LinkedIn is Clara Mwenda, and on Facebook, I go by Clara Mwenda. I don’t have a personal website yet, but my email is always open for anyone who wants to reach out.

TribesAndHistory:
Perfect. So, where are you originally from?

Clara:
I’m Zambian, born in the Copperbelt Province, specifically Kitwe. I’ve moved around a bit within Zambia, lived in the Central Province for a while, and now I’m based in Lusaka, the capital.

TribesAndHistory:
So, Clara, what do you do?

Clara:
I’m an entrepreneur ,I run Rustic flowerpots and planters manufacturing limited, I’m a sustainability advocate. I’m also an award-winning business owner and a community leader in my area.

TribesAndHistory:
That’s impressive Clara. What inspired you to start your business? 

Clara:
Great question. It all started about two years ago when I was going through a tough time, my personal version of rock bottom. I had left university due to financial struggles and was working a sales job I didn’t enjoy. One day, I noticed a small plant on my doorstep in a pot I didn’t like. I went around town searching for a better pot that really spoke to me, but couldn’t find one. So, I decided to make my own pots. I started experimenting, and two years later, here we are.

TribesAndHistory:
Wow, so your business grew from simply wanting a nicer plant pot?

Clara:
Exactly! I just didn’t like the way the pot looked, so I took matters into my own hands. I practiced, experimented, and eventually created beautiful plant vessels that I’m very proud of.

TribesAndHistory:
That’s amazing! Did you ever imagine entrepreneurship would be your path?

Clara:
Absolutely not. It’s still one of the scariest and craziest things I’ve ever done. Every day, I wonder how I’m still doing this and why I’m doing it. But I do know my “why,” and it baffles me that two years later, we’ve made it this far and are still growing.

TribesAndHistory:
So, tell us more about your business. What do you do, and what makes it special?

Clara:
My business is called Rustic FlowerPots and planter’s Manufacturing limited. We craft handmade pottery using limestone and quarry dust to help plant lovers embrace sustainable gardening. Our pots are not just beautiful, they’re portable and act as a natural fertilizer because of the limestone, which enriches the soil.

Historically, farmers have used limestone to make soil more alkaline, and our pots continue that tradition. When I started, the business was small and unconventional. People thought it was odd, but I combined old African pottery techniques with modern design to create something beautiful and sustainable.

TribesAndHistory:
You mentioned the community initially didn’t receive it well. Why was that?

Clara:
When I started, everyone, family and friends included, would ask, “Why flower pots? Why not something else?” The big question was always, “Who’s going to buy pots?” Also, most pots in Zambia are large, but I wanted to create small, colorful pots that could fit on desks, windowsills, or kitchens something easy to carry and gift.

That idea was unconventional, but we stuck with it. Now, we have over 18 corporate collaborations, which is such a blessing.

TribesAndHistory:
That’s fantastic progress. Can you share a moment in your business that shaped the leader you are today?

Clara:
Sure. In 2024, I was invited by the government’s Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprise Development to exhibit. At the time, I was struggling with doubts, questioning if this was the right path. During the exhibition, the minister announced awards for outstanding entrepreneurs, and I unexpectedly received the Best Upcoming Youth Entrepreneur award for 2024.

That moment was overwhelming and eye-opening. It confirmed I was on the right path and that I was meant to do this. It was a turning point, a sign from the universe to keep going.

TribesAndHistory:
This is so inspiring Clara. Tell us, how has your African heritage influenced your business journey?

Clara:
Our ancestors made pottery from clay and used these vessels for daily life, carrying water and storing goods. That tradition is in my blood. I love creating beautiful vessels that hold plants and remind us of life’s beauty.

I’ve blended African heritage with modern sustainable practices to craft pottery that honors the past but fits today’s world. That connection to tradition shapes Rustic Flower Pots deeply.

TribesAndHistory:
Now what legacy do you hope to leave for the next generation of Africans?

Clara:
I have a big dream beyond entrepreneurship, I want to be a leader in Zambia, maybe even the first female president. I come from a tough background, and I’ve learned to navigate life independently.

I want to show young girls that despite difficult starts, they can achieve greatness with grace and love. In a patriarchal society, it’s important to prove you can succeed elegantly and inspire others to do the same.

TribesAndHistory:
So, what about your heritage makes you proud?

Clara:
I’m from the Senga tribe in Zambia. One proud tradition is the Chiswala ceremony, where a bull is sacrificed, and the chief eats a special blood paste symbolizing strength and leadership.

These traditions teach us values that shape who we are, especially as women, and influence even how we do business. Our culture is rich and full of lessons that still resonate today.

TribesAndHistory:
Thank you for sharing that Clara. Before we wrap up, any words of wisdom you’d like to share?

Clara:
Yes, a few! First, get comfortable being uncomfortable. Growth happens when you face your fears, like when I had to fire someone for the first time; it was scary, but I grew through it.

Second, carry yourself with grace. Give yourself credit, you’re doing better than you think.

And finally, give yourself permission to do what you love. Those are my three keys to success.

TribesAndHistory:
  I love that. Is there anything else you’d like to add that we didn’t cover?

Clara:
Just that I just want to encourage everyone to give themselves a chance. Start small, with whatever you have, and see where it takes you. Freedom comes from trying.

TribesAndHistory:
Thank you so much, Clara, for sharing your story and wisdom with us today.

Clara:
Thank you! It’s been a pleasure