Chronicle Editor
Mbulelo Mpofu [email protected]
LAST Saturday, Eveline Girls High School in Bulawayo alumni, staff, learners, parents, and friends gathered for the inaugural “Eveline Old Girls Homecoming: A Celebration of Legacy and Vision” event.
This momentous occasion served as a heartfelt tribute to the rich history of one of Bulawayo’s oldest and most prestigious educational institutions.
Founded in 1910, Eveline Girls High School has long been a beacon of excellence, nurturing generations of leaders who have made their mark in various fields worldwide.
Notable alumnae include actress Bathabile Dlamini, gospel artiste Thandiwe Tanewe, ZBC’s Marylin Ngwenya, and media personality Mbonisi “Mbo Mahocs” Mahonondo.
The theme of the event, “Celebrating the Legacy of Eveline and Shaping Future Leaders”, underscored the school’s commitment to fostering excellence while addressing future challenges. Attendees enjoyed a line-up of engaging activities, including an inspiring keynote address from esteemed guest Georgina Musekiwa.
Her speech resonated with many, as she warmly expressed, “It is good to be home. I am excited to be here.”
Musekiwa, a proud former student, shared her journey from humble beginnings to becoming a successful entrepreneur and semi-commercial farmer. She emphasised the importance of education and intentional living, urging students to strive for excellence beyond their current circumstances.
Although the event which Musekiwa termed a trial phase was a success, she laid the gauntlet for other alumni to join in.
“We had a sizeable crowd in attendance, but we can do better. Perhaps the concept is still new, but to truly inspire the next generation, we need to show up in greater numbers and make our presence felt.
“So, I urge other members of the school alumni to come and make Eveline great again through donations and everything in between to help with set projects,” she said.
Comedian Ntando Van Moyo served as the event’s MC, bringing humour and charm to the proceedings. The entertainment featured live performances from the Eveline High Choir, traditional and modern dances, and dramatic poetry, showcasing the school’s vibrant cultural heritage.
A significant aspect of the celebration was the fundraising drive to secure vital resources for the school’s future. Proceeds from the event will support critical projects, including drilling boreholes, revitalising the swimming pool, maintaining school buildings, and upgrading transport facilities.
Event coordinator, Thabani Moyo called upon the Eveline alumni and the Bulawayo business community to unite in support of this initiative which is set to be held regularly emphasising, “It’s through such collective efforts that the legacy of Eveline can be preserved and strengthened for future generations. Today was a testament to the power of unity and we met some of the set objectives, but we need more bodies in,” he said.
The family-friendly event welcomed everyone, offering children free entry and numerous activities to entertain younger attendees. It provided a perfect opportunity for families to bond and for alumni to reconnect with their roots while contributing to a noble cause.
@MbuleloMpofu
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