Meet Jennifer Ndlovu!
Based in Zimbabwe, Jennifer is a Salesforce MVP and Sales and Marketing Systems Administrator at Flash Academy. She’s also the force behind African Women in Salesforce and Africa Ohana, two communities she founded to empower and uplift African trailblazers.
Both communities were born from her desire to empower African trailblazers and create opportunities for growth across the continent.
“We’re trying to help trailblazers in their journeys, especially those in Africa. Because we just want them to get the most out of their Salesforce career. We’re helping them get the experience they need, and hopefully in the near future, we’ll be able to get them internships so that it can be a fruitful career for them.” 
How It All Started
Before joining the Salesforce ecosystem, Jennifer’s career path looked very different.
“I started off as a cleaner at a hospital in 2020 and then became a driver for a nonprofit organization in 2021, which is when I transitioned into Salesforce in 2022. That’s when my journey began.”
In just three years, she’s achieved more than most would in a decade.
“I’m still a newbie, but a lot has happened in the past three years that could happen in ten. It’s been an amazing journey for me because when I joined, there were not many African trailblazers at that time. So for me, it meant trying to find a space to fit in, getting mentors outside of Africa, and learning from people around the world.”
That global mentorship experience became life-changing.
“I was getting so many positive vibes from international trailblazers, and that motivated me to do better in the Salesforce world.”
Her story came full circle when she began mentoring others herself.
“People started asking how to navigate the ecosystem, and I found myself giving back. It wasn’t planned — I just wanted people to feel that they can do it, no matter where they are.”
Finding Freedom Through Salesforce
Jennifer’s discovery of Salesforce came from a very personal motivation: wanting to work remotely and be closer to her family.
“I used to work 220 kilometers away from home, so I would only come home on weekends. It was stressful because I didn’t have a relationship with my children anymore. One day, I met a colleague’s brother on a work trip, and I asked him what I could do to change my life.”
That’s when he introduced her to Salesforce.
“At first, I ignored it because I thought it was too expensive. I didn’t have a laptop, Internet was expensive, and certifications looked impossible to afford. But later, when I saw a Salesforce Admin job opening in my company, I realized — if I had started earlier, maybe that would be me getting promoted.”
So she decided to take a chance on herself.
“The person who told me about Salesforce said, you need to invest in yourself. And that’s exactly what I did. I wanted a career that would change my life — a career that would give me financial freedom and let me support my children without stress. That’s what motivated me.”
Jennifer landed her first Salesforce job just three months after discovering the platform, something she credits to the community and networking.
“It opened so many doors for me. Things I didn’t know I was capable of doing, I can do now. It gave me freedom, financial freedom, first of all. There were things I couldn’t do for my children before, places I couldn’t go, and now I can. It has changed my life completely.”
A Typical Day in the Life
Her day-to-day includes morning calls with her fully remote team, assisting users, and helping departments like Sales, Marketing, and Customer Success get the most out of Salesforce.
“I love working for Flash Academy. It feels like home because the team is super supportive. They support my initiatives, and I make sure I carry out my tasks in a way that makes them proud.”
Tips for Aspiring Salesforce Professionals
Jennifer’s advice for those starting or growing their careers (especially in Africa) is powerful, practical, and straight from the heart: Know why you want to start.
“If you don’t have a goal or vision, you’ll lose it when challenges come. Know your ‘why.’”
1.Be part of the community.
“There are so many Trailblazer groups around the world. You’re not limited to your region; attend anywhere, and you’ll feel welcome.”
2.Make use of Trailhead.
“It’s fun and it’s free! Trailhead is the easiest way to learn Salesforce.”
3.Network and stay visible.
“LinkedIn is your best bet. Be visible to employers, sponsors, and people who can help you.”
4.Stay consistent and persistent.
“If you commit to studying one hour a day, keep that habit. Be enthusiastic and passionate about learning.”
5.Keep up with the latest tech.
“When they talk about AI or Agentforce, know your stuff! It gives you a competitive advantage.”
Closing Thoughts
Jennifer’s story is one of resilience, purpose, and transformation. From cleaning hospital floors to becoming an MVP and community leader, she’s redefining what’s possible for African talent in the Salesforce ecosystem.
“Salesforce gave me a new life, and now I want others to experience the same.”
