Online Reporter
Cletus Mushanawani
Editor
THE journey of Mutare-based education entrepreneur, Mr Stephen Gwinyai Mutsongodza is a compelling story of humility, perseverance and visionary leadership.
From his modest beginnings as a classroom teacher to becoming one of Zimbabwe’s most celebrated businessmen, Mr Mutsongodza has demonstrated that success is achievable through hard work, determination and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
His recent recognition as the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC) national businessman of the year marked yet another milestone in a career that has been defined by ambition and transformation.
The award placed him among the nation’s leading business figures and highlighted the growing influence of the education sector as a powerful driver of economic development.
Mr Mutsongodza is also basking in the glory of being honoured at the prestigious World Summit School x COA 32nd Edition in London recently.
The 32nd Edition, held in London in January 2026, was particularly significant as it was hosted in partnership with the House of Commons and Oxford University, institutions synonymous with intellectual prestige and democratic tradition.
Being recognised in such spaces elevates the award beyond a personal accolade—it becomes a statement of global credibility.
For many residents of Mutare, Mr Mutsongodza’s success story is more than an individual achievement. It is a source of inspiration, particularly to young entrepreneurs and professionals who aspire to rise above difficult circumstances and build lasting enterprises.
Born into humble circumstances, Mr Mutsongodza did not begin life with vast resources or privileged connections. His professional journey started in the classroom, where he worked as a teacher dedicated to nurturing young minds. Those who knew him during those years describe a hardworking and disciplined educator who always believed education could change lives, like his famous motto: “We left home to change home.”
Looking back at his journey, Mr Mutsongodza admits that he never imagined his path would eventually lead him to becoming one of Manicaland’s most successful education entrepreneurs.
“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 shows that dreams, when pursued with passion, can indeed come true,” he said after receiving the prestigious award.
While many educators choose to remain within the traditional school system, Mr Mutsongodza saw an opportunity to contribute more broadly to the education landscape.
Driven by a vision to create an institution that would combine academic excellence with innovation, he ventured into private education and founded First Class Academy, now First Class Group of Schools.
Starting a school was no easy feat. Like many entrepreneurs, he faced financial constraints, administrative hurdles and stiff competition. However, he remained focused on his long-term goal of building an institution that would provide quality education while nurturing future leaders.
His persistence paid off.
Over the years, First Class Academy grew steadily, earning a reputation for academic excellence and holistic learner development. The institution expanded its facilities, embraced technology and consistently produced impressive examination results. What started as a small educational venture gradually evolved into a respected education brand in Manicaland.
For Mr Mutsongodza, education has always been at the centre of his entrepreneurial philosophy. “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,” he said.
His approach has been characterised by a willingness to invest in modern learning infrastructure, digital education tools and extracurricular programmes that prepare students for life beyond the classroom. This blend of educational excellence and sound business management has transformed the institution into a thriving enterprise.
Long before being named businessperson of the year, Mr Mutsongodza had already earned recognition for his contribution to education and community development.
In 2023, he received the ZNCC lifetime achievement award during the chamber’s regional business awards ceremony, a distinction that acknowledged his sustained impact on the education sector and the wider community.
His latest accolade represents the culmination of years of dedication, innovation and resilience.
Awarding him the businessperson of the year title, the ZNCC recognised his role in transforming education into a successful and sustainable enterprise while contributing significantly to economic growth and employment creation in Manicaland.
Despite the recognition, Mr Mutsongodza remains grounded and attributes much of his success to the people who have supported him throughout his journey.
“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.
Colleagues describe him as a leader who values teamwork and continuous improvement. His leadership style has helped create a culture of excellence within the First Class Group of Schools, motivating employees to pursue high standards in their work.
Beyond business success, Mr Mutsongodza’s story reflects the importance of vision. While many entrepreneurs pursue opportunities in mining, retail or manufacturing, he chose education—a sector that demands patience, long-term planning and substantial investment.
His success offers valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs. It demonstrates that significant achievements often begin with small steps, that challenges can be overcome through persistence, and that investing in people can generate lasting returns.
At a time when Zimbabwe continues to encourage entrepreneurship and innovation, Mr Mutsongodza stands as an example of what is possible when dedication meets opportunity. His rise from a classroom teacher to an award-winning businessman proves that success is not determined by where one starts, but by the determination to pursue a vision relentlessly. As he looks to the future, Mr Mutsongodza remains focused on expanding educational opportunities and maintaining the standards that have made the First Class Group of Schools a household name in Manicaland.
His story is one of transformation—from chalkboard to boardroom, from educator to entrepreneur, and from humble beginnings to becoming one of Zimbabwe’s most respected business leaders.
Indeed, Mr Stephen Gwinyai Mutsongodza’s meteoric rise is, not merely a personal success story; it is a powerful testament to the transformative power of education, resilience and visionary leadership.
Moffat Mungazi