In the vibrant city of Wolverhampton, Nimo’s Restaurant & Catering, owned by Nico Tawanda Chitsa, stands as a cultural beacon, blending the rich heritage of Zimbabwean cuisine with the warmth of African hospitality. Nico, a multi-talented professional and community leader, has turned his passions into thriving ventures while excelling in mentorship, finance, and storytelling.
The Man Behind the Brand
Meet Nico Tawanda Chitsa, FCCA, President of ZPUK, and a Chartered Accountant with extensive expertise in financial analysis, IFRS reporting, tax, and regulatory compliance. A proud graduate of the University of Glasgow with a 2:1 Honours in Accounting and Finance, Nico is not only a skilled professional but also a visionary entrepreneur and mentor.
Known for his inclusivity, integrity, and growth mindset, Nico has spent over a decade mentoring young individuals, guiding them into further education and successful careers. He resides in the West Midlands with his wife and children, balancing his professional and personal pursuits seamlessly.
Finding Purpose Through Food
Growing up in Zimbabwe, food was central to Nico’s life, forming the heart of family gatherings and celebrations. These experiences inspired his deep appreciation for its power to connect people. After moving to the UK, Nico identified a gap in the market for authentic Zimbabwean cuisine, sparking the creation of Nimo’s Restaurant & Catering.
“Food has always been a way to connect, celebrate, and share stories,” Nico shares. “I wanted to bring that warmth to the UK and create a space where people could experience the taste of Zimbabwe.”
From its inception, Nimo’s aimed to serve high-quality dishes that celebrate Zimbabwean culture while fostering a sense of community in Wolverhampton.
A Multifaceted Entrepreneur
While food is central to his journey, Nico’s entrepreneurial spirit extends beyond the kitchen. His ventures in finance stemmed from his desire to empower the African community in the UK by helping them achieve financial independence.
He has also authored two children’s books and is currently working on his third, using storytelling as a tool to inspire creativity and pride in cultural heritage.
“Each venture reflects my commitment to uplifting others. Food connects people, finance empowers them, and storytelling inspires them,” Nico explains.
Overcoming Challenges as an Immigrant Entrepreneur
Like many immigrant entrepreneurs, Nico faced significant hurdles, including navigating regulatory complexities and overcoming biases in the UK business environment.
“I had to work twice as hard to prove my worth,” Nico admits. “But challenges are opportunities. Networking, mentorship, and consistent quality were key to building credibility.”
For Nimo’s, introducing Zimbabwean cuisine to a diverse audience was an ongoing challenge. Nico addressed this by partnering with reliable suppliers, ensuring operational efficiency, and educating customers about the unique flavors of his homeland.
Celebrating Wins and Building a Legacy
Nico’s proudest moments include the successful launch of Nimo’s Restaurant, where a full house on opening day confirmed his vision. Another highlight was catering for a high-profile event, receiving rave reviews for his authentic dishes.
As President of ZPUK, Nico has created platforms for Zimbabwean professionals in the UK to connect, grow, and support one another, while also championing causes like financial literacy and entrepreneurship.
“I’m proud of the young people I’ve mentored who’ve gone on to achieve great things and of the positive impact my books have had on children,” Nico reflects.
Expanding the Vision
The future holds exciting opportunities for Nico. Plans include expanding Nimo’s Restaurant & Catering to cities like Birmingham and London, launching a retail line of Zimbabwean sauces and spices, and opening a cooking school to preserve traditional African recipes.
Additionally, he is exploring tech solutions with an app designed to connect professionals within the African diaspora, demonstrating his innovative mindset.
“My vision is to make Nimo’s synonymous with authentic African cuisine across the UK,” Nico says confidently.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Nico’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly immigrants, is both practical and inspiring:
“Start with a clear vision and take small, consistent steps. Learn the market, network, and don’t hesitate to ask for help. Embrace your cultural identity—it’s your superpower in standing out.”
A Legacy of Culture, Community, and Connection
Nico Tawanda Chitsa’s journey from Zimbabwe to the UK is a testament to resilience, passion, and dedication. Through food, finance, and storytelling, he has built a legacy that uplifts his community and inspires the next generation.
From the bustling kitchens of Nimo’s Restaurant to the pages of his children’s books, Nico’s work is more than entrepreneurial—it’s a celebration of Zimbabwean culture and an enduring inspiration for those who dare to dream big.
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