Legacy in Motion: Tinashe Mutarisi and Son Build the Future With ‘Foodies
In a bold move redefining business succession in Zimbabwe, Nash Paints founder Tinashe Mutarisi has partnered with his teenage son, Tinashe Mutarisi Jnr., to launch a new food outlet, "Foodies." This collaboration offers a rare glimpse into the Mutarisi family dynasty, their modern approach to parenting, and a breakdown of the "seven children" who form the future of the empire.
Foodies: More Than Just Chicken
Located at the iconic Karigamombe Centre in Harare (Corner Samora Machel and Julius Nyerere), "Foodies" is the latest addition to the Nash Holdings portfolio. Tinashe Mutarisi emphasizes that this is not just a fast-food joint but a "casual dining" experience centered around community. The motto is "Good food, good vibes."
The menu features a diverse range including pizza, bakery items, and what Tinashe enthusiastically calls "huku inosimudza" (uplifting chicken). The vision is to scale this brand rapidly, establishing a Foodies outlet in every town in Zimbabwe.
The inception of Foodies began in 2023 during a conversation between father and son about university. Rather than sending his son off to learn business theory alone, Mutarisi Snr proposed a practical project. Tinashe Jnr is not a silent partner; he was involved in converting the space from a Nash Paints shop, hiring staff, and developing the menu. He describes his role as being "on the ground," learning the ropes of ownership firsthand.
Tinashe Mutarisi Jnr.: The Heir Apparent
Tinashe Mutarisi Jnr. is a fresh graduate from Lomagundi College, having just completed his Upper 6 exams. While his peers are figuring out their next steps, Jnr is already stepping into corporate ownership. He studied Business Studies, Economics, and Accounts—subjects he says he "lived" daily by observing his father.
He is articulate, driven, and possesses a clear understanding of his privileged position, viewing it as a platform to launch higher rather than a cushion to rest on. "I don't feel boxed in," he says about his father's legacy. "It's a continuation."
Despite his youth, Jnr displays a maturity beyond his years. He speaks about the importance of networking ("You can't put a price tag on connections") and customer experience. He admits that while he plans to study Business Administration eventually, he believes the hands-on experience he is gaining at Foodies is invaluable. His father describes him as having a "business brain" distinct from mere academic intelligence.
The Mutarisi Dynasty: The 7 Children
During the interview, Tinashe Mutarisi cleared the air regarding rumors about the size of his family, confirming he has seven children. He spoke proudly of each of them:
- 1. Dion Mutarisi: A brilliant academic ("brainy"), she is currently studying Artificial Intelligence in the Netherlands. Tinashe expects her to return and revolutionize the family business with technology.
- 2. Takomborerwa Mutarisi: Takomborerwa Mutarisi: She is noted as the daughter who comes after Tinashe Jnr, positioned in the family lineup as his younger sister.
- 3. Tinashe Mutarisi Jnr.: The third born and co-owner of Foodies.
- 4. Narini Mutarisi: Described affectionately by her father as "The Cool Ruler"—the coolest of the bunch.
- 5 & 6. The Twins (Matai Mutarisi and Nashe Mutarisi): The last borns with his current wife, adding a double dose of joy to the household.
- 7. Namwari Mutarisi - (The Cape Town Child: Mutarisi candidly acknowledged a child from a previous relationship who resides in Cape Town. He spoke respectfully of the child's mother and confirmed he has a full, supportive relationship with this child, who visits often.
A Modern Father's Philosophy
Mutarisi's parenting approach is radical compared to traditional Zimbabwean norms. He strongly opposes corporal punishment, comparing beating a child to "hot-wiring a car"—it might get a quick reaction, but it damages the system permanently. Instead, he relies on logic, negotiation, and friendship.
"I want my children to follow me because they understand the vision, not because they fear the whip," he explained. This philosophy has created a home environment where even the youngest can debate points with him without fear.
The relationship between Tinashe and his son is built on profound trust. Jnr revealed that he even shows his father pictures of potential girlfriends before posting them on social media. "I check with him, 'Is this okay?'" Jnr laughed. This level of transparency extends to business, where Tinashe Snr allows his son to make decisions and learn from the outcomes, aiming to build a multi-generational legacy akin to global giants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Foodies is co-owned by Tinashe Mutarisi and his son, Tinashe Mutarisi Jnr.
It is located at Karigamombe Centre in Harare, at the corner of Samora Machel Avenue and Julius Nyerere Way.
He has seven children: Dion, a second daughter, Tinashe Jnr, Narine, twins Matai & Nashe, and a child who lives in Cape Town.
He recently completed his secondary education at Lomagundi College.
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