Online Reporter
Cletus Mushanawani
Editor
WHEN the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC) Manicaland announced its prestigious businessman of the year award recently, the spotlight fell on a figure whose journey embodies resilience, vision, and transformation: Mr Stephen Mutsongodza, First Class Group of School’s Director-General.
For many in Mutare and beyond, Mr Mutsongodza’s recognition is more than a personal triumph — it is a testament to the power of determination and the belief that humble beginnings can lead to extraordinary heights.
Mr Mutsongodza’s story begins, not in a boardroom, but in a classroom. Trained as a teacher, he spent years shaping young minds, instilling discipline, and nurturing ambition. Yet, even as he marked exercise books and guided learners, he harboured a vision of building something bigger — an institution that would redefine education standards in Manicaland.
“I never imagined that one day I would be standing here as a celebrated businessman. My journey started with chalk in hand, teaching in modest classrooms. To be honoured by ZNCC today shows that dreams, when pursued with passion, can indeed come true,” he reflected.
From those early days, Mr Mutsongodza poured his energy into establishing First Class Academy, a school that quickly distinguished itself for academic excellence and holistic development. Under his leadership, the academy grew from a small operation into a thriving institution, attracting learners from across the province and beyond. A new baby, First Class High School was recently born, turning the empire into a group of schools.
His approach was simple yet profound: combine rigorous academics with entrepreneurial innovation. He invested in modern facilities, digital learning tools, and extracurricular programmes that prepared learners, not only for exams, but for life.
“Education is the foundation of every society. I wanted First Class Academy to be more than a school — it had to be a launchpad for future leaders,” said Mr Mutsongodza.
The ZNCC award is widely regarded as a benchmark of business excellence in Zimbabwe. It honours individuals who demonstrate innovation, leadership, and impact within their industries.
For Mutsongodza, being named Manicaland businessman of the year is both validation and inspiration.
“This award is not just mine. It belongs to my staff, my learners, and the community that believed in First Class Academy. I am humbled, and I marvel at how far we have come. From being a mere teacher to standing here today — it feels like a miracle,” he said with visible emotion.
Mr Mutsongodza attributes his success to a philosophy rooted in discipline, vision, and service. He often emphasises that leadership is, not about titles, but about responsibility.
“I lead with the mindset of a teacher. A teacher guides, corrects, and inspires. Those principles have shaped my business journey. I never stopped being a teacher — I simply expanded my classroom to include the wider community,” he noted.
His leadership style has earned him admiration, not only in education circles, but also in the broader business community. Colleagues describe him as pragmatic, innovative, and deeply committed to uplifting others.
Beyond First Class Group of Schools, Mr Mutsongodza has become a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs in Manicaland.
His story resonates with many who see in him proof that success is not reserved for those born into privilege.
He frequently mentors young professionals, encouraging them to embrace challenges and pursue their visions with courage.
“If I can rise from chalk dust to boardroom success, then anyone can,” he often tells them.
While the award marks a significant milestone, Mr Mutsongodza insists it is only the beginning.
He envisions expanding First Class Group of Schools into a network of institutions across Zimbabwe, each embodying the same commitment to excellence.
“My dream is to see First Class Group of Schools graduates leading in every sector — business, Government, science, and the arts. This recognition fuels me to push harder, to innovate more, and to serve better,” he said.
Mr Mutsongodza’s journey from teacher to celebrated businessman is a powerful narrative of perseverance and vision.
His recognition as ZNCC Manicaland businessman of the year is, not just a personal accolade, but a beacon of inspiration for educators, entrepreneurs, and dreamers across Zimbabwe.
As he stood on stage, award in hand, his words captured the essence of his remarkable journey: “I marvel at this honour. It reminds me that no beginning is too small, and no dream is too big.”
