Online Reporter
Blessings Chidakwa-Senior Reporter
FIRST Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa underscored her commitment to nurturing Zimbabwe’s future leaders by bringing accomplished professionals from across key sectors to mentor young participants at the annual Boys and Girls Mentorship Camp, inspiring them to dream big, remain in school and make informed career choices.
The week-long mentorship programme was enriched by a comprehensive career guidance component that exposed learners to a wide range of professions, broadening their horizons while equipping them with knowledge, confidence and motivation to pursue meaningful careers.
Distinguished resource persons from the aviation, medical fraternity, legal profession, Zimbabwe Republic Police, Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service, Air Force of Zimbabwe, Universities, agriculture sector, media, ZimParks, among several other sectors, shared their experiences and offered practical guidance.
The professionals took learners through various career pathways, academic requirements and the qualities needed to excel in different fields, while encouraging them to shun drug and substance abuse, embrace discipline and work hard at school.
The participants, drawn from Zimbabwe’s 10 provinces, including remote and historically marginalised communities including Binga, had the rare opportunity to interact directly with accomplished professionals, ask questions and gain first-hand insight into careers many had never previously encountered.
Pioneering female pilot Captain Chipo Matimba shares her experiences in breaking barriers in aviation, while inspiring learners, particularly girls, during Career Guidance Day organised by First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa in Nyanga.
They also enjoyed an immersive experience of various professions, including the rare opportunity to board a helicopter and gain first-hand insight into aviation and the realities of the profession.
The learners also toured the museum at Rhodes Nyanga Hotel, where they gained valuable insights into Zimbabwe’s rich history, culture and heritage.
The initiative reflects Dr Mnangagwa’s conviction that every Zimbabwean child, regardless of geographical location or social background, deserves equal access to mentorship, career guidance and opportunities, helping bridge the information gap and ensuring that no child is left behind in the country’s development journey.
“I brought professionals from different fields so that you appreciate the many opportunities available to you. Listen carefully, ask questions and begin preparing yourselves now because your future starts now,” she said.
Dr Mnangagwa urged the participants to remain focused on their education and become professionals who would contribute meaningfully to national development.
“Zimbabwe needs doctors, engineers, lawyers, teachers, journalists, pilots, police officers, farmers and many other professionals. Whatever career you choose, work hard and become the best. Never allow drugs or bad company to steal your future.”
One of the day’s highlights was an inspiring presentation by pioneering pilot Captain Chipo Matimba, who encouraged learners, particularly girls, to break barriers and pursue careers traditionally considered male-dominated.
Legal practitioners Hastings Sithole (right) and Evelyn Ngorima encourage learners to consider careers in law during Career Guidance Day in Nyanga, describing the profession as both rewarding and full of opportunities.
She explained that aspiring pilots should excel in subjects including Mathematics and Physics, maintain high standards of discipline and physical fitness, and complete rigorous flying training before qualifying to fly commercial aircraft.
“I was born and bred in Zimbabwe and grew up just like you. I became the first female Air Force pilot, the first female instructor and have flown several aircraft.
“When I started, one man said, ‘If God had wanted women to fly, He would have painted the sky pink.’ But I refused to be discouraged.
“I kept pushing, and today the sky is no longer the limit; it is my home. Never limit yourselves. Believe in your dreams, work hard and keep pressing forward.”
An energetic visually impaired legal practitioner, Mr Hastings Sithole, inspired participants by demonstrating that disability is not a barrier to success.
He described law as a noble profession that upholds justice and the rule of law. He explained that aspiring lawyers should build a strong foundation in Arts subjects, particularly English Language and Literature in English, while excelling in other subjects before pursuing a Bachelor of Laws degree at university and completing the professional training required to practise law in Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service officers engage learners on career opportunities within the organisation during Career Guidance Day in Nyanga.
He explained that the duration of a law degree varies across universities. At the University of Zimbabwe, the programme typically takes four years because students complete their industrial attachment during semester breaks. At Midlands State University, however, the programme spans five years, as students undertake a dedicated full year of industrial attachment.
“Law does not discriminate. I am blind, yet I completed my studies and practise law. Never allow any limitation to stop you. Law is not only about arguing in court. It is about ensuring justice prevails. So I urge you all to pursue it.”
District Medical Officer Dr Majoni John Muungani encouraged learners aspiring to become doctors to combine academic excellence with compassion.
He explained that medicine requires outstanding passes in Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry and Physics before studying for a medical degree at university, followed by internship and registration with the relevant professional bodies.
“For one to become a doctor, teamwork is essential because healthcare is built on collaboration. We work closely with nurses, pharmacists and many other healthcare professionals to provide the best possible care for our patients.
“A good doctor must also have empathy, as patients deserve to be treated with compassion, dignity and respect,” he said.
Air Force of Zimbabwe Flight Lieutenant Sibonile Tshuma motivates learners to pursue careers in aviation during Career Guidance Day in Nyanga.
University of Zimbabwe engineers Herbert Chirwa and Dr Engineer Loice Gudukeya inspired learners to pursue engineering careers, explaining opportunities in civil, electrical, industrial, automotive, aeronautical, chemical and geomatics engineering.
They said engineering demands excellent performance in Mathematics and Science subjects before undertaking specialised university training leading to professional registration.
Dr Engineer Gudukeya challenged girls to venture into science and technology fields.
“A girl child can excel. A woman can achieve anything she sets her mind to. Girls, do not be afraid of engineering or any field that has traditionally been dominated by men.
“Embrace science, technology, engineering and mathematics with confidence, because you are just as capable as boys. Believe in yourselves, work hard and never allow anyone to tell you that your dreams are beyond your reach,” she said.
Farmer Dr Perpetua Gumbo encouraged learners to embrace climate-smart agriculture, describing the sector as a rewarding career that is central to Zimbabwe’s food security, economic growth and sustainable development.
She explained that agriculture combines practical farming skills with scientific knowledge and opens pathways to careers in crop science, livestock production, agribusiness, agricultural engineering and research.
“Climate change is a reality, which is why we must adopt climate-smart agriculture. The sector is rich with opportunities for those who are willing to learn, innovate and work hard,” she said.
“Agriculture is not merely about growing crops or rearing livestock; it is a science, a business and a profession capable of transforming lives and communities. Do not overlook it as a career because the future belongs to those who can produce food sustainably.”
Air Force of Zimbabwe Flight Lieutenant Sibonile Chuma challenged girls to venture into professions traditionally dominated by men.
She said the defence forces require discipline, physical fitness, patriotism and good academic qualifications.
Musician Jah Signal thrills learners with a performance at the Boys and Girls Mentorship.
Flight Sergeant Chari urged learners to shun drug and substance abuse and maintain discipline, saying these values are essential for anyone wishing to pursue a career in the uniformed forces.
Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service Assistant Principal Correctional Officer Leonard Madzivanzira explained that correctional officers are recruited from individuals of good character who meet the required educational and physical standards before undergoing professional correctional services training.
He also outlined the organisation’s role in rehabilitating offenders into productive citizens.
Zimbabwe Republic Police Manicaland provincial spokesperson Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka said prospective police officers are required to have at least five Ordinary Level passes obtained in not more than two sittings.
He explained that joining the police service demands good academic qualifications, integrity, discipline, physical fitness and the successful completion of police training.
Assistant Inspector Chinyoka outlined the police’s role in maintaining law and order, preventing and investigating crime, protecting lives and property, and safeguarding the rights of all citizens. He also educated learners on child protection, urging them to report all forms of abuse without fear.
“Do not allow anyone to violate your body. Report such cases to your teachers, parents or the police. Your body is precious, and it deserves to be protected.”
From the University of Zimbabwe’s Faculty of Arts, Ms Chipo Musoko introduced learners to careers in musicology, broadcasting and heritage studies, explaining that these disciplines can be pursued through specialised university programmes leading to careers in museums, media organisations, cultural institutions and the creative industry.
Environmental Health Technician Mr Mukono reminded learners that prevention remains the cornerstone of public health.
He explained that environmental health practitioners study environmental and public health sciences before serving communities through disease prevention, sanitation and health promotion.
ZBC broadcaster Gay Matambo encouraged aspiring journalists to cultivate confidence, excellent communication, reading and writing skills, explaining that journalism and media studies at tertiary level open doors to careers in broadcasting, print, digital media and public relations.
She added that proficiency in indigenous languages broadens opportunities in broadcasting.
ZBC broadcaster and Manicaland Bureau chief Gay Matambo shares insights into the media profession with learners during Career Guidance Day in Nyanga, outlining pathways into the industry.
Officials from ZimParks, including Mr Phenias Sadondo, introduced learners to careers in conservation, ecology and tourism.
They explained that careers in wildlife conservation require studies in environmental science, ecology, forestry, wildlife management or tourism, coupled with a passion for protecting Zimbabwe’s rich natural heritage.
Renowned musician Jah Signal also enthralled learners with an inspiring interactive session, encouraging them to remain focused, disciplined and committed to pursuing their dreams through education.
The learners actively participated throughout the sessions, asking questions on aviation, medicine, policing, engineering, law, farming, wildlife conservation and journalism, with professionals providing practical guidance on academic qualifications, training and career progression.
During the interactive sessions, learners posed a number of intriguing questions to professionals from different fields, demonstrating their eagerness to learn and better understand the career paths available to them.
One learner asked whether a person who had previously been arrested could later become a prison officer. The response was that, in line with the country’s Constitution and Public Service regulations, individuals with criminal convictions are generally not eligible for recruitment into Government service.
Another learner, interested in farming, asked how beekeepers harvest honey from beehives without being stung.
The professionals explained that beekeeping is carried out by trained apiarists who wear protective clothing and use specialised equipment and proper techniques to safely handle bees.
One that left the audience in stitches was of a learner who also asked whether hotel managers live inside hotels. The response was that, although they do not ordinarily reside in the hotels they manage, employers provide decent accommodation or other benefits depending on the nature of the position.
A learner entertains others with some dances during Career Guidance Day in Nyanga.
Participants expressed excitement after interacting with professionals from diverse sectors, saying the sessions had broadened their understanding of career opportunities and inspired them to work harder towards achieving their dreams.
Charleene Mushata said the career guidance sessions had transformed her perception of what was possible, particularly for girls aspiring to pursue professions traditionally dominated by men.
“I learnt a lot about the careers of the people who came to teach us. I learnt that a girl can do any job she wants in Zimbabwe. We were taught that lawyers represent people and help them.
“I also learnt that doctors have different specialities, with some treating children while others perform operations. Seeing the helicopter inspired me to become a pilot,” she said.
Charmaine Nyangani said she had developed a keen interest in joining the Zimbabwe Republic Police after learning more about the profession.
“I learnt about many careers. The one I liked most is policing because I feel it is the career that suits me best.”
Karen Nyadute said the legal profession had captured her interest because of the important role lawyers play in protecting people’s rights and ensuring justice.
“The career I liked most is law because lawyers can represent people and help them as long as they are paid for their services.”
Luthando Njiva said the programme had not only introduced learners to various professions but had also instilled values of teamwork, discipline and leadership.
“They introduced us to many professions and taught us how to become team leaders and disciplined people. I now want to become a farmer because I have learnt the importance of agriculture.”
Melusi Nyathi said the sessions had strengthened his ambition of becoming a doctor while teaching learners the importance of discipline, responsibility and respect for others.
“I learnt that I want to become a doctor. We also met people from the prison service who taught us not to use drugs, to be good people and to respect others.
“A journalist told us that we need confidence when communicating with people and that even a person with a disability can become a journalist, including through sign language. Captain Matimbe taught us that if you want to fly, you must avoid alcohol because you will be responsible for many lives. We were also shown a helicopter by the Air Force.”
Learners gather around a helicopter learning about aircraft during Career Guidance Day.
Jesca Majagada described the programme as an eye-opening experience that had inspired learners to work harder and pursue their ambitions with confidence.
“I am very happy because we learnt a lot about career guidance. The people who taught us were confident and spoke very fluently. They inspired us to work hard and follow our dreams.”
Teacher Abraham Mudzimu said the Heritage-Based Education programme was highly beneficial as it exposed learners to Zimbabwe’s identity, culture and values while complementing classroom learning.
“This programme is highly beneficial to learners because it exposes them to their roots and helps them understand their country better. It creates a sense of love and pride for Zimbabwe.
“Through the different concepts covered, learners are also receiving guidance and counselling on the subjects they can choose as they progress in their education. They are being taught important values such as ubuntu, discipline and good behaviour, which are essential in moulding responsible citizens.”
Some learners gather around a trout fish pond at Rhodes Hotel in Nyanga during Career Guidance Day.
For many of the children, especially those from remote communities, the mentorship camp was more than an educational experience.
It was a life-changing opportunity that broadened their horizons, ignited their ambitions and reaffirmed Dr Mnangagwa’s enduring commitment to ensuring that every Zimbabwean child has an equal opportunity to dream, aspire and realise their full potential.
The career guidance programme forms part of Dr Mnangagwa’s broader vision of ensuring that every Zimbabwean child is equipped with the knowledge, confidence and inspiration to pursue meaningful careers while making informed subject choices at school.
As the sessions came to a close, the atmosphere was filled with renewed hope and determination, with many learners expressing confidence that the knowledge gained from the accomplished professionals had equipped them to make informed decisions about their future careers.
