Startup Story
Technology has become a real gamechanger in the world of healthcare, providing those in need with access to medical advice and healthcare professionals via apps and digital platforms. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, entrepreneur Michèle Mianza, founder of 2mk Healthcare empowers people to manage their health journeys using technology.
LoA learned more about Michèle Mianza and her journey to becoming a life-changing techpreneur.
What does your company do?
2mk Healthcare connects patients and their relatives to healthcare professionals, so they can more easily in case of an emergency, alert nearby health services through our digital tools (Website, web application, and Connected Bracelet), access healthcare, and manage their health journey.
“Our product and service inspires people to think outside the box.”
“We have been where our customers are and understand their needs.”
What inspired you to start your company?
The idea behind 2mk Healthcare came from a very sad moment. It all started with a sudden impulse I had after seeing a young girl with sickle cell anaemia having a crisis at the mall while I was waiting for a friend who had to take my painkillers from the pharmacy to calm my endometriosis crisis. While I was in severe pain, the young girl on the other side was also between life and death. It was a wake-up call for me to alert her relatives and the available health services near the location for medical treatment. After this incident, I immediately began my research on chronic diseases and investigating the business idea in order to offer strategic solutions that meet the needs of patients and their relatives. This was midway through 2017, and I started pitching it to my friends and families. The feedback was positive and we officially launched in September 2018. Actually, we are enjoying the entire process. Think Big, Start Small, Move Fast!
Why should anyone use your service or product?
Our product and service inspires people to think outside the box. We have been where our customers are and understand their needs. We give our customers the opportunity to participate to the development of our product and we are transparent about things we do and why. So, we offer what they can’t ignore to improve quality of life!
Tell us a little about your team
When I think of my team, I think of the people I work with. We learn, collaborate and take time to listen to everyone’s ideas. It has made a noticeable difference in our productivity and deadline management. I also see workplace diversity and inclusion as long-term projects, ones that will need continuous nurturing and dedication.
Share a little about your entrepreneurial journey. And do you come from an entrepreneurial background?
We are all, to some degree, the products of our environment. My parents have been the root of my drive and inspiration to become an entrepreneur. My mother owned her own business for over 25 years, so as a child I grew up watching her work hard for what she earned but also helping others along the way. She taught my siblings and I how to sell at a very young age, and said that we can always achieve anything we put your mind to, dream big and persevere. Starting 2mk Healthcare has been my dream since childhood. In one of my old notebooks I have a note stating that I would like to own a company in the healthcare sector or own a private hospital. In 2018, I was finally able to save money from previous businesses (Wedding and party rentals, selling clothes, shoes, cosmetics…) to launch a prototype. The journey has not been easy at all but it’s worth travelling. The experience has taught me to be more open to learning, to trust myself, and to have confidence in my vision.
“We give our customers the opportunity to participate to the development of our product and we are transparent about things we do and why.”
What are your future plans and aspirations for your company?
As to the future of 2mk Healthcare, we will be going through various improvements and additions, the most notable will be to launch our connected bracelet “ConnectCare” with the goal of being the leading marketplace of its kind in Europe and Africa.
What gives you the most satisfaction being an entrepreneur?
Firstly, taking an idea and bringing it to life and the opportunity to change lives as well as the world with my vision. Secondly, entrepreneurship is interesting! I am never bored. Every day presents new challenges and new opportunities to keep me on my toes. Thirdly, the obstacles I face along the way provide me with an experience I won’t find anywhere else. Lastly, the responsibility and the freedom to pivot every time my business model slows down.
What's the biggest piece of advice you can give to other women looking to start-up?
Show passion in what you do, work on something that means a lot to you, always be committed, be consistent and transparent. Know where to focus energy and time. You get to constantly learn. As an entrepreneur you are always learning lessons ... sometimes the hard way. It is such a priceless education that you can’t get anywhere! You have to believe in yourself before anyone else will. Never fear asking for help and do not be afraid to fail but learn from mistakes. Empower those around you, be authentic, stop comparing yourself to others and, above all, seize every opportunity with confidence.
Contact or follow 2mk Healthcare
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | EMAIL info@2mkhealthcare.com
More about the founder
Michèle Mianza is the co-founder and CEO of 2mk Healthcare in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and is also in charge of Yajte, a non-profit organization promoting Young Talents and Entrepreneurs worldwide. With her biotechnology background, she is very passionate about harnessing the power of the web and new technologies to make a difference.
Why LoA loves it….
Digital technology has been a real game-changer in providing access to healthcare on the African continent, connecting patients to essential information and support when they most need it. In the DRC, Michèle Mianza is responding to this need with her company’s digital platform, app and Connected Bracelet. She is genuinely changing and improving lives by harnessing the power of technology to make a difference. — Melanie Hawken, founder & ceo of Lionesses of Africa