Online Reporter
Solomon Bhumu
Post Reporter
IN a ground-breaking initiative, Zoe Empowers Zimbabwe has launched a pioneering programme aimed at empowering orphans and vulnerable children with practical skills to build sustainable futures.
The youth mentorship programme, undertaken in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training and Marange Vocational Training Centre, provides hands-on vocational training tailored to foster self-reliance and community development.
The programme, designed for children between the ages of 15 and 19, addresses critical needs such as food security, healthcare access, income generation, and education.
Participants benefit from nutritious diets, learn to earn a living without external aid, and receive health education that helps prevent disease.
Additionally, child rights advocacy and secure housing form cornerstones of the initiative.
A significant milestone was celebrated at Marange Vocational Training Centre on Wednesday, where 112 youth – 57 young women and 55 young men – graduated with certificates in various trades, including carpentry, building, hairdressing, sewing, catering, welding, and barbering.
The programme facilitator, Mr Kevin Dawa said the courses are designed to be inclusive, open to passionate youth regardless of prior experience.
“These programmes provide a pathway away from destructive choices such as drug abuse and early marriages, offering a brighter future for these young individuals.
“This programme also serves as a robust prevention strategy, reducing the risks of drug abuse and child marriage. Empowered youth are far less likely to fall into those traps,” said Mr Dawa.
Turning to the graduates, he urged them to move forward with purpose and determination.
“This certificate is just the beginning. Continue dreaming, building businesses, serving your local communities, and sharing the skills you have acquired,” he said.
To empower the graduates to embark on their entrepreneurial journeys, Zoe Empowers Zimbabwe provided them with comprehensive start-up kits, including sewing machines, carpentry sets, and welding tools.
The two-month training programme was firmly rooted in the local community, with guidance and mentorship provided by experienced local mentors and supervision from Marange Vocational Training Centre.
Marange Vocational Training Centre principal, Mr Silent Murigwa said the institution will be accepting a new intake of trainees in September, prioritising a strong desire to learn over formal academic qualifications, such as five O-Levels.
