A Story of Grit, Vision and Unstoppable Ambition
What if you went from having no home as a teenager to building 40 houses in just five years?
It sounds like the plot of a rags-to-riches movie, but for Harold Mayaba—known as the Lion Hugger—it’s real life. Based in Nelson City, New Zealand, this Zambian entrepreneur is proving that resilience, discipline and unwavering ambition can turn even the boldest dreams into reality.
A Bold and Ambitious Goal
Harold’s real estate vision is nothing short of extraordinary: he plans to build 40 houses in Zambia within five years. While some might call it an impossible feat, Harold sees it as a calculated and achievable mission. Construction is already underway, and his progress speaks volumes.
He understands that real estate is more than just owning a home—it’s about scaling investments for financial security. Instead of stopping at one house, Harold is leveraging the power of multiple rental properties, allowing him to generate steady income and reinvest in future projects.
The Motivation Behind the Mission
Harold’s drive to build a property empire is deeply personal. As a teenager, he faced housing instability, moving from one home to another while struggling to complete high school. That experience ignited a fierce determination to own property and secure a stable future.
Initially, his goal was simply to build his own home. But after achieving that milestone, he saw real estate’s wealth-building potential. One house turned into two, then three, and soon, a vision of 40 houses took shape.
What He Has Achieved So Far
Harold has already made impressive strides. He has completed two houses and is finalizing six more flats. Within the next two months, he will have eight rental properties generating income. Additionally, construction is underway for six more houses in Silverest, which he aims to complete by the end of the year. By early 2025, he expects to have 14 completed homes, bringing him closer to his ambitious goal.
Managing a Construction Project from New Zealand
Many diaspora investors struggle to oversee property developments remotely, but Harold has mastered the art of long-distance project management. His secret? A strong, trustworthy support system.
His sister was the first person he entrusted with managing his projects. To ensure financial responsibility, he tested her with small transactions and monitored her accountability—she passed every test with full transparency. When she later got married, Harold transitioned project management to his brother-in-law, who has continued to uphold the same high standards.
Despite the distance, Harold remains actively involved. He sets clear expectations, ensures materials are purchased wisely, and swiftly replaces unreliable builders. His meticulous approach keeps his projects on track and safeguards his investments.
Financing the Dream
Real estate investment often comes with the challenge of securing financing, but Harold has found a simple yet effective strategy. In New Zealand, salaries are typically paid weekly or biweekly, which allows him to save consistently. By setting aside a certain amount per week he maintains a steady flow of funds for building materials and project costs.
This disciplined savings approach has enabled him to expand his portfolio. Over time, small, consistent contributions have translated into completed houses, reinforcing the power of strategic financial planning.
Key Takeaways for Diaspora Investors
Harold’s journey offers valuable lessons for Zambians in the diaspora looking to invest in property back home:
- Think Big and Scale Up – One house is great, but a portfolio of rental properties can multiply your financial returns.
- Build a Trustworthy Support System – Reliable people on the ground are essential for successful project management.
- Test Before You Trust – Start with small transactions before entrusting large sums of money to anyone.
- Save Consistently – Even modest weekly savings can fund major real estate projects over time.
- Quality Matters – Investing in good-quality materials and reputable builders ensures long-term success.
A Legacy in the Making
From experiencing homelessness as a teenager to becoming a major real estate investor, Harold Mayaba’s journey is a testament to resilience, vision, and discipline. His strategic approach, financial discipline, and strong support system have set him on the path to achieving his goal of 40 houses in Zambia.
For those in the diaspora dreaming of building wealth through real estate, Harold’s story proves that with the right mindset, careful planning, and a reliable team, anything is possible.
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