A talk I gave to a group of entrepreneurs being incubated at the Innovation Hub in Pretoria. They can use their experiences in the maths class as simulations to entrepreneurial lives.

1. CONFIDENTIAL
02 February 2015
This document is solely for the use of MathsGenius Leadership Institute personnel and Advisory Board. No part of
it may be circulated, quoted, or reproduced for distribution without prior written approval from MathsGenius
Leadership Institute..
Mathematical thinking for
entrepreneurial success
Gaussian Mind Trading and Projects
T/A MathsGenius Leadership Institute
Phone: +2778 585 8937
Title: Chief Genius
Website: www.mathsgenius.co.za
Email: edzai@mathsgenius.co.za
Presenter: Edzai Conilias Zvobwo
MathsGenius Leadership Institute
Twitter: @edzaizvobwo

2. MathsGenius Leadership Institute 2014 ©
Solve
Jane spent $42 for shoes. This was $14 less than twice
what she spent for a blouse. How much was the
blouse?

3. MathsGenius Leadership Institute 2014 ©
What is a problem?
Objective + Obstacle = PROBLEM
Problems arise when an obstacle prevents us reaching an
objective, e.g. when a breakdown in a company's
manufacturing plant (the obstacle) prevents it fulfilling
orders (the objective).
Objective = something we have decided we need to
achieve.
Obstacle = anything that prevents us achieving an
objective.

4. Why do we study maths in school?
MathsGenius Leadership Institute 2014 ©

5. • Structured and creative thinking
• Problem solving frameworks
• Manipulation of numbers
• Mathematical modelling of phenomena
• Persistence and Resilience
• Pass tests and exams
• Exploration and critical questioning
• Confidence and faith
• Social class
• Wider choice of careers
MathsGenius Leadership Institute 2014 ©

6. MathsGenius Leadership Institute 2014 ©
How do mathematicians think?
1.Identify the correct problem to solve.
2.Understand the problem (Analysis).
3.Believe solution(s) exist.
4.Devise a plan (Which formula/method?)
5.Carry out the plan (Execution).
6.Evaluate (on-going in all steps).

7. What is missing in the maths class?
MathsGenius Leadership Institute 2014 ©
• Identification of problems
• Creativity and Critical questioning
• Communication skills
• Utility value of the subject
• Project-based teamwork
• Acceptance of failure as part of
learning curve
• Faith and risk taking

8. Believe solution(s) exist
MathsGenius Leadership Institute 2014 ©
Flying machines are impossible. In 1895,
Lord Kelvin, president of the Royal Society,
said: "Heavier-than-air flying machines are
impossible”. On Dec. 17th, 1903, the Wright
brothers successfully made the first
controlled heavier-than-air human flight.

9. There will be experts…
MathsGenius Leadership Institute 2014 ©
There is market for maybe 5
computers. Thomas J. Watson Sr. presided
over the growth of IBM into an international
force between the 1920’s to the 1950’s,
largely on the basis of punched card
tabulating machines. In 1943, however, he is
alleged to have famously said: "I think there
is a world market for maybe five computers."

10. How can Entrepreneurs think like
mathematicians?
MathsGenius Leadership Institute 2014 ©
• Know your magic numbers
• Learn from every experience
• Explore, experiment & persevere
• Ask questions
• Learn to tell your story
• Be in love with your purpose
• Teamwork is important
• Be open to problems