Manzini – Zandile Mabaso, founder of Scoops N Giggles, has returned from a 10-day mentorship at the award-winning Gelateria De’ Coltelli in Pisa, Italy, where she gained advanced gelato production skills and exposure to commercial-grade systems. The programme was supported by the European Union and International Trade Centre and aimed at equipping her to scale her ice cream business.
Mabaso said the experience exceeded her expectations. “I am delighted to bring home a wealth of knowledge and new skills from Pisa. Being able to train under some of the best people in the world is something I never imagined possible.”
She is now working towards establishing a certified cottage factory and preparing to supply supermarkets and hotels in Eswatini. The training has strengthened her production processes and operational systems, positioning her business for growth. 
Eva-Maria Engdahl, EU Head of Cooperation in Eswatini, said the mentorship illustrates the importance of supporting young entrepreneurs ready to transform skills into competitive businesses. “Zandile’s journey shows how access to global expertise can unlock new opportunities for Eswatini’s micro, small, and medium enterprises,” she said.
The mentorship is part of the ‘Eswatini: Promoting growth through competitive alliances’ programme, implemented by the ITC in partnership with the EU and Eswatini Government to support small farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs in achieving export-led growth.
