Online Reporter
Conrad Mupesa
Mashonaland West Bureau
FOR many, age is seen as a barrier. But for 75-year-old Diana “Gogo” Chisvo of Mboma in Zvimba West, it is nothing more than a number.
Her recent triumph, earning a Class Four driver’s licence, has sparked admiration and inspiration not only in her family but across her community.
Gogo Chisvo achieved this milestone through a skills training programme run by Tonganyika Trust, a development initiative funded by Tourism and Hospitality Industry Deputy Minister Tongai Mnangagwa.
Yet among all the success stories, it was Gogo Chisvo’s feat that stole the spotlight, a lifelong learner
Her notable achievement was however, not the first time she has proven that determination knows no age limit.
Nearly four decades ago, she boldly sat for her Ordinary Level examinations alongside her daughter, showing her lifelong commitment to self-improvement.
Speaking moments after receiving her licence, Gogo Chisvo held it aloft with pride and declared: “I wanted to inspire my children and grandchildren with this achievement. Dreams have no expiry date,” she said.
Her courage has already touched lives in unexpected ways.
Wallace Matambo (not his real name), a pirate taxi driver who ferried her to and from Murombedzi Business Centre, admitted that her discipline and persistence inspired him to take up driving lessons.
“I have been driving for over four years without a licence. Watching her commitment at 75 pushed me to change. I am now working on my Class Two licence,” he said.
Fellow graduates were equally moved. Hazvinei Sandra Gomera (35), who completed three courses, Hotel and Catering, Welding and Detergent Manufacturing, said Gogo Chisvo’s example gave her courage.
“She showed us all that nothing is impossible. I am going to enrol for driving lessons because of her,” she said.
In addition to her driving licence, Gogo Chisvo also graduated with certificates in Detergent Making and Hotel and Catering, proving that her vision extends far beyond the driver’s seat.
Tonganyika Trust’s national coordinator, Mr Wellington Danda, described her as a “torchbearer” whose story should encourage women and the youth nationwide to pursue their dreams relentlessly.
And Gogo Chisvo is not stopping here. Despite her age, she says she is already setting her sights on new challenges and higher goals.
From empowering her grandchildren to inspiring unlicenced drivers to change their ways, Gogo Chisvo has become living proof that age is no barrier to learning, growth and achievement.
