In a world where first impressions matter more than ever, Nelly Paulser, co‑founder and CEO of Graphic House Zim, is putting Zimbabwe on the map as a hub of excellence in graphic design, printing, branding, and creative event solutions.
What began as a modest partnership with her husband has evolved into a multi‑award‑winning venture that blends artistic precision with social responsibility—anchored by a mission to amplify African voices and spotlight young female talent.
Paulser’s trajectory from high-school student to creative powerhouse is one defined by adaptability and tenacity.
Initially pursuing an academic career, she rediscovered early lessons in design and flower arrangement—skills she once dismissed but later recognized as foundational to her entrepreneurial journey
Her husband, Ray, brought deep technical expertise in graphic design, and together they forged Graphic House Zim, officially launched in 2020.
From the outset, they noticed a gap: startups often ignore branding until late, undermining the power of design in establishing credibility.
Paulser’s vision was to change that narrative, offering high-quality, bespoke branding from day one. This ethos attracted young businesses and large clients alike—earning them international interest and contracts.
Operating in a traditionally male-dominated field wasn’t easy. Paulser encountered skepticism from peers who doubted a woman’s authority in design and print services.
Instead of retreating, she leaned in—building relationships, asserting her expertise, and countering bias with performance. Her firm’s success reframed industry perceptions and set an example for aspiring women entrepreneurs.
Under Paulser’s leadership, Graphic House Zim blossomed into a one-stop creative house offering digital and large-format printing, branding, exhibition stand construction, corporate gifting, and events décor—services that align with international standards.
Their reputation for quality and reliability recently earned trust from UK and Indian clients, who commissioned exhibition stands worth tens of thousands—proof that African firms are fully capable of competing globally .
Paulser attributes much of her growth to rigorous marketing. She deploys an “unapologetic” approach: daily social media activity, word-of-mouth campaigns, LinkedIn outreach, and sponsored posts are all strategic tools to expand visibility and credibility.
Alongside marketing, she continuously invests in professional development via programs like the Academy of Women Entrepreneurs, Tony Elumelu Foundation, UPG Biashara, and ILO’s sustainability training—programs that also unlock funding.
Social impact sits at the heart of Paulser’s mission. Through Lerato Trust —a nonprofit born from Graphic House Zim—she leverages design to combat school bullying, inspire youth, and guide emerging kid-preneurs.
The trust facilitates youth events, anti-bullying campaigns, and career-exposure sessions in creative industries—all rooted in UN Sustainable Development Goals .
Looking ahead, Paulser is set on empowering the next generation of creatives.
In 2025, she plans to launch formal programs for youth education, women’s empowerment in business, and skills training in branding and printing .
With a sharpened focus on emerging technologies like AI in design and global collaborations, she aims to elevate both Graphic House Zim and Zimbabwe’s creative economy.
Nelly Paulser’s ascent from self-funded startup to recognized leader encapsulates the transformative power of vision aligned with service.
She challenges the norm, proving that high-quality, impactful branding is not only profitable—it’s purposeful.
As she expands Graphic House Zim’s reach and champions young designers, her legacy grows beyond profit: it shapes the future of African creativity.
In a world where brands are built on bold ideas and stronger values, Nelly Paulser’s story isn’t just inspiring—it’s a blueprint.
