Online Reporter
Sipepisiwe Moyo, [email protected]
Youths from the rural areas were well represented at the recently held National Youth Day celebrations in Bulawayo, with Mr and Miss Rural Zimbabwe contestants showcasing their diverse cultures and learning from other youths.
Adorned in varying traditional attires, the models showcased the rich Zimbabwean culture in dress. Not only did they display cultural attire, but some of their outfits were themed to raise awareness on various important issues.
Some of the outfits focused on drug and substance abuse awareness, while others aimed at educating people on environmental issues.
Sharing her experience at the youth day event was Miss Rural Zimbabwe Matabeleland North Province representative, Peggy Ngwendu, who highlighted the challenges faced by youths in rural areas.
“I’m excited to have been part of the celebrations as a youth from Mbembesi’s Xhosa community. I had the opportunity to explore more and meet up with other young people from different parts of Zimbabwe.
I realised that youths everywhere face similar challenges such as drug and substance abuse, early marriages, and rising cases of school drop-outs. I believe that if youths from rural areas were given more exposure, it would help empower them,” Ngwendu shared.
Representing Mr Rural Zimbabwe Masvingo Province, Menard Ngoya, said many rural boys engage in drug use due to financial challenges.
“We’re happy to showcase our rich culture as youths from the village. We face a lot of challenges, especially when it comes to drugs, because of financial difficulties. Some of us end up missing school, and others, even after excelling academically, fail to secure employment,” Ngoya said.
Marrisca Mapare, also from Masvingo expressed that attending the youth day celebrations helped them get familiar with Bulawayo.
“As rural youths from Masvingo, we really appreciate this opportunity to mix with people from different backgrounds, as it has boosted our confidence,” she shared.
Sipho Mazibuko, the founder of Mr and Miss Rural Zimbabwe, highlighted the importance of rural youths joining such events to ensure that no one and no place is left behind.
“For many of them, this was their first time in the city, and they totally enjoyed being part of such a big event that is specifically meant for youths nationwide. Urban youths flocked to our stand to experience culture first-hand. The rural models came out in full force, dressed in their traditional cultural wear.
“We had two Xhosa models from Mbembesi, as well as Tshangani, Tonga, and Ndebele models.
“They had the opportunity to show urban youths what their tribes represent,” Mazibuko said.
“I encourage rural youths, even those outside of Miss Rural Zimbabwe, to attend such functions so they can gain exposure to life beyond the village,” Mazibuko added.
