Be the difference in your own community
Today, we take a moment to celebrate and showcase the remarkable journey of Kwanele Leslie Mbiza, a young man whose roots are firmly planted in Hwange. Born and raised in this vibrant community, Kwanele’s story is one of determination, leadership, and a commitment to making a difference.
Kwanele’s educational journey began at St. Ignatius Primary School and continued at Thomas Coulter Junior School, where his passion for debate and public speaking first ignited. His journey in the world of debate is nothing short of inspiring. As a former national debate champion at the Zimbabwe Debate Challenge, Kwanele has showcased his skills on international platforms, representing Zimbabwe at the Pan African Universities Debate Championships three times—in Kenya in 2022, Togo in 2023, and Uganda in 2024.
Now a dedicated volunteer, Kwanele serves as a debate and public speaking coach for the teacher’s college in Hwange. His commitment to nurturing young talent is evident in his organization of the Prunitian Debate Championship in February, a high school tournament he sponsored entirely by himself. This initiative not only provided a platform for young debaters but also showcased the potential of local youth in competitive settings.
Kwanele’s leadership extends beyond local borders. He was selected as one of 40 youth leaders globally by UNESCO for their Youth Leadership Workshop conference held in New Delhi, India, in April this year. This honor reflects his dedication to making a significant impact in his community. In August, he participated in the Africa and Middle East Regional Dialogue for the International Forum, We the Youth (IFWY), organized by UNRISD in Botswana, further solidifying his role as a change-maker.
Recently, Kwanele was accepted into the Aspire Institute’s Aspire Leaders Program, an online leadership training course developed by Harvard University faculty. This program aims to equip leaders from low-income communities with essential skills to maximize their impact, and Kwanele is eager to apply what he learns to benefit his community.
Despite his numerous achievements, Kwanele remains humble and grounded. He acknowledges that he is still on a journey toward realizing his vision of improving education, basic literacy, critical thinking, and leadership development in Hwange. He believes in taking measured steps and is committed to making a lasting impact, stating, “I am not in a rush, but I think I have made some considerable strides.”
Kwanele’s story serves as a powerful reminder that anyone, regardless of their background or the challenges they face, can make a difference on both the national and global stage. His journey inspires others who may feel marginalized or disenfranchised, proving that with dedication and passion, change is possible.
As Kwanele continues to pave his path, he remains open to collaborations for organizing tournaments for schools in and around Hwange. His commitment to uplifting others exemplifies the spirit of community and leadership that we should all aspire to embody.
Let Kwanele’s journey inspire you to take action and make a difference in your own community!
