From Mkhosana to a Graduation Stage: Ratidzai’s Inspiring Journey

Growing Up in Mkhosana

At just 23, Ratidzai has already defied immense odds to achieve what once felt impossible. Born and raised in Mkhosana, a small community in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, her childhood was far removed from the images of luxury and breathtaking waterfalls often associated with the area.

“My parents worked so hard to put food on the table,” she recalls. Life in Mkhosana was simple and challenging. Without electricity, families relied on firewood for cooking, and water often had to be carried in buckets. Despite the hardships, resilience and determination were daily companions for her family.

At school, Ratidzai struggled with low self-esteem. “I couldn’t help but compare myself to other kids who seemed to have everything—fancy clothes, quality stationery, and delicious food. I felt invisible.” She often sat at the back of the classroom, afraid to speak, even when she knew the answers.

The Power of Mentorship

In 2016, everything began to change. Friends invited Ratidzai to join , a safe space for young girls in her community to learn, grow, and dream. Though hesitant at first, her life took a pivotal turn when her mentor, Procedure, at the club noticed her potential.

“I froze on my first day when they asked me to stand up and introduce myself. I even considered running away. But unlike the teacher who once punished me for being quiet, my mentor came looking for me when I didn’t return. She told me, ‘I want to help you. I see so much potential in you.’ Those words stayed with me.”

This simple act of care from her mentor was a turning point. “I started to see someone who cared about me and believed in me. She showed me that I wasn’t invisible, and that made all the difference.” Encouraged by her mentor’s belief, Ratidzai returned to the club and slowly began to build her confidence.

“Over time, I learned leadership skills, goal setting, and life skills like sewing and braiding. My mentor emphasized academic excellence, and she made sure we had the support we needed to succeed.” The club was where Ratidzai started to believe in her own potential.

Turning Dreams into Reality

One day, during a goal-setting session at , “I started dreaming big. I stood up in front of everyone. I told everyone I see myself wearing a gown, a graduation gown, walking across the stage and making my parents proud. That day, I started to believe it was possible,” she says. With the club’s support, she excelled academically, passing nine subjects at the ordinary level and progressing to advanced levels.

Her hard work culminated in a scholarship opportunity to study Business Administration in India. However, the joy was short-lived when her family couldn’t afford the remaining 50% of the tuition. “I was devastated, but my mentor told me to believe in myself and hang in there.’ Eventually, she was able to get the remaining 50% through the GSGC scholarship programme. This and the pivotal support from her mentor allowed Ratidzai to pursue her dream.

In India, Ratidzai faced new challenges, including language barriers and financial strain. She turned to the skills she learned at the club, braiding hair to support herself. Through it all, she remained focused on her goal.

A Dream Fulfilled

In June 2024, Ratidzai’s dream came true as she walked across the graduation stage, wearing her gown and making her family proud. “I cried because I thought of where I came from and all the challenges I overcame. The dream I had in 2016 came alive.”

Now back in Zimbabwe, Ratidzai works as an intern at GSGC and continues to inspire other girls through visiting other clubs. “Seeing everyone who believes in me proud keeps me going. I want to show other girls that it’s possible to achieve your dreams, no matter where you come from.”

Ratidzai’s journey is a powerful testament to the life-changing impact of mentorship. Through the support of those who believed in her, she has not only overcome personal struggles but is now on a path to help others do the same.