Online Reporter
Langalihle Mhiti
Youth Interactive Writer
The year 2025 has been filled with exceptional milestones for Zimbabwe’s youth, with teenagers making bold moves in pageantry, music, fashion and education.
Their stories of resilience, talent, and determination have become a source of national pride, showing that age is no barrier when passion leads the way.
Four young achievers Taffy Kuveya, Nushel Nokutenda Kareko, Kayla Thomas, and Tinevimbo Muzavazi have become symbols of what it means to dream big and work hard.
Tafadzwa “Taffy Kuveya”, at just 23, with a flair for fashion, caught the attention of many when she was awarded the Best Gown Award at a prestigious youth fashion and talent event. Her gown, designed with elegance and modern flair, stood out on stage.
“Winning the Best Gown award was magical,” Taffy said. “It wasn’t just about the dress it was about expressing who I am. Fashion is my way of speaking without saying a word, and being recognised for that was a dream come true.”
In the world of beauty and pageantry, Nushel Nokutenda Kareko raised Zimbabwe’s flag high by competing at the Miss Teen Africa 2025 competition in South Africa. Amongst tough continental competition, she earned the title of 1st Princess.
“Being crowned 1st Princess was emotional,” Nushel said. “I’ve been rejected before, but I never gave up,” she said. “This title is a reminder that when you keep believing in yourself, the world starts to believe in you too. Representing Zimbabwe was an honour I will never forget.”
Music lovers were introduced to a rising star in Kayla Thomas, who shook up the youth music scene with the release of her vibrant single and music video titled ‘Trabablass’. The track quickly gained traction on platforms like TikTok and YouTube, becoming a popular anthem among teenagers.
“When I released Trabablass, I just wanted people to have fun,” Kayla said. “The support was overwhelming. It made me realise that young people have a voice in the industry. I feel inspired to keep writing and creating music that speaks to my generation.”
While others made noise on stage and social media, Tinevimbo Muzavazi quietly made history in the academic world. She received eight awards at Presbyterian High School in Mhondoro, standing out as one of the brightest students in the province. Her accolades included top performance in Science, English, Mathematics, Shona and more.
“I was shocked when they kept calling my name,” Tinevimbo said. “I’ve always believed in giving my best in everything, and getting eight awards was the confirmation that hard work pays off. I want to go even further next year and inspire others to aim high.”
These young individuals, though different in interests and backgrounds, are united by their drive to succeed and their willingness to represent Zimbabwe with pride. Their success stories are not just about trophies, songs or gowns they’re about defying the odds and showing what young people can do when they are encouraged and supported.
The journey wasn’t always smooth for any of them. Most shared stories of challenges, rejections and doubts, but they pushed through. Nushel, for example, highlighted how past failures never stopped her from chasing her goals. Kayla spoke about how music helped her overcome anxiety and build confidence, while Taffy said it took courage to put her creativity out into the world. Tinevimbo credited her teachers, family and school for guiding her academic journey.
As the year comes to a close, these young achievers are not only celebrating their own victories but are inspiring many others to rise and shine.
They’ve shown that you don’t have to wait to be an adult to make an impact all it takes is a dream, the discipline to follow it, and the heart to keep going.
Zimbabwe’s future is clearly in good hands, with its youth leading the charge in style, substance, and spirit.
