Thursday, September 20, 2012
All Smiles at St Giles,story of my life from different lenses...
A memo on my day at St Giles Medical Rehabilitation Centre in Harare
“God puts us on certain positions of influence for a reason, and whatever He assigns us to do He equips us with adequate power and wisdom to execute it. With so much that I have achieved, there is so much I can learn each day. To my family, friends and workmates..Um just Ruvimbo, a daughter, a friend an acquaintance but to them I am more than the aforementioned.…”
What started as a noble visit to St Giles Medical Rehabilitation Centre in Harare turned to be such a valuable experience I wouldn’t trade for anything. When I left home today to spend my day at St Giles, I wasn’t aware of the great hospitality that was waiting ahead of me. I arrived there around 10.30am during the hour long interlude that the children have every Thursday between 10.30am and 11.30am where the children interact and do various enriching activities. Upon my arrival, I immediately joined the staff and amazing children in their break room where we broke into songs, a bit of dancing, mixing and just to get to know each other. (And for the record, even in my not so good voice I was made to sing infront of everyone..thanks to Mr Ticha Muzavazi for the prank, um not so bad after all).
What touched my heart the most is how much talent and passion these children have. They can sing, play instruments such as the mbira, hosho and ngoma; and they play them with so much perfection despite the fact that some of them are visually impaired, have challenges in perfect speech or hearing. What I witnessed today is that, talent has no boundaries and no limitation can stop you from realizing your goal so long as you have the passion. The children are also amazing composers, they performed some of the songs they composed and I was left speechless.
From this visit, I realized that we don’t need millions of dollars to make a difference. I went there today just as Ruvimbo, with no huge donations to give but I went there with an open and warm heart full of love…and in return, I received the love back in million folds. It made me realize that it’s not the material things that count but our time, love, dedication and passion can go a long way in brightening someone’s day. It was brought to my attention that the school, is also in need of things like stationary, toys, snacks for the children, carpets, curtains to mention but just a few. So my plea to the cooperate world and individuals like you and me is to join hands and be a movement that will go out of the ordinary to make sure we bring a smile on these children. If I made a difference as an individual by just a mere visit, what more could you and me achieve if we join hands as a team?
When I left St Giles School by the end of the day, I was already brainstorming things I can do using my current position of influence to effect the kind of change I aspire to see. As an individual who is good at sports like swimming, tennis, track and also very good at drawing and sewing and also a Chemist; I pledge to make use of my God given talents by volunteering every Thursday of my time in Zimbabwe, sharing my area of expertise with the children and passing my knowledge for the greater good.
But my question to you is…What is it that you can do? If you truly think you can come through and join me on this project that I have officially adopted, feel free to get in touch with me and we can exchange Ideas on how we can best move forward for the greater good. It will not be easy but it will be done with utmost perfection. How do you play your part in making a difference in building a nation that you are proud of?
Get up today, play your part by inspiring new ways. Start with small projects and keep on building step by step bearing in mind that every step does take us closer and closer to the future. Inspire new ways that will help build a better future that we are all proud of. My challenge to you is leave a sound legacy for generations to come.
The goal is all about leaving this world a better place than we left it. A better you, A better Me, A better Zimbabwe..Together we can do it, let’s start action now. Trust me; every little bit does count like a drop of water in an ocean.
With that I say, stay in peace and love…spread the word and share with the world! Be Inspired!
Story by,
Ruvimbo Violet Katiyo
Holds B.A Chemistry from Berea College,KY USA;
Current Miss Zimbabwe 2nd Princess;
Miss Zimbabwe-USA 2nd Princess 2011;
Plan International Ambassador;
E.P.G Fellow
More pictures below...
Tuesday, July 3, 2012
This is my story, what is yours....?
I consider youths as citizens that are full of energy and have inconceivably high levels of creativity and are full of fervor. Give them a platform to express themselves and they will surprise you with their vast talents and their ability to change their communities for the better.
For that reason, I do take youth mentorship seriously as a critical tool in bridging the knowledge gap between people from all walks of life, generations and various social circles. With the support and mutual partnership from Plan-Zimbabwe, I have already embarked on a nationwide mentorship program in Zimbabwe. Our first project with Plan-International was in Epworth, Harare where we spend our Saturday (June 2nd) with High school girls who have huge and amazing dreams. In attendance besides me, were doctors, nurses, accountants, engineers who took time to give some career guidance and motivational speaking to the girls. Most of these accomplished individuals who came to support the initiative are people who braved through their challenging upbringings and created lemonade out of lemons.
The launch was a success and we intend to expand to other remote areas around Zimbabwe. In line with Plan-International’s “Because I Am A Girl Campaign”, it is in my vision as an advocate and ambassador, to encourage other youths especially girls to reach their fullest potential amidst any form of adversity. Youths are at the center of my heart because they are very instrumental in shaping the future of any society. It is therefore very crucial to empower them with the right resources to become valuable assets to the nation of Zimbabwe and be effectual global citizens.
Take for instance this scenario I came across with recently…..
“Imagine if you were a young girl growing up in the rural areas and the most remote part of the country where globalization is just a word; don’t have access to internet, electricity and educational facilities and resources. And if you ever had access to education, you will have to walk 15 kilometers to school and another 15 kilometers back, with no food to eat during break time and no food for lunch. The only meal you know is a bowl of mealie-meal porridge without sugar that you take early in the morning and a plate of Sadza with green vegetables at night probably prepared without any cooking oil. Every day before you go to school you have to make sure that you fetch water from the river and pen the cattle; and after school, you have to go and work in the irrigation sites to earn a few dollars to survive on. Yet despite all that, you still dream big and have high aspirations for your future. And still remain adamant that your dreams will come true one day and will be able to take yourself out of poverty.”
These are some of the cases I experience in my work and inspire me a lot to keep on pushing forward amidst harsh conditions. I however wonder, if you were a young girl growing up in such circumstances, how would you overcome your circumstances and try to change your life for the better? I believe our environment does play a huge role in our development and has an influence on how far we go in life. Hence, unless we have had an opportunity to get exposed to what’s possible in life and have been taught about the value of education, equipped with the right resources to empower us, to believe in ourselves from a young age and have been encouraged to reach our fullest potential with the right support system; the changing of our circumstances for the better may require a huge huge huge abragada kind of miracle!
If you have been blessed with all resources to allow you inherit a prosperous future, do develop a keen eye that looks around to see where help is needed and act on it. As youths, we have the duty and mandate to serve our communities to the best of our abilities and make sure we leave a lasting legacy for generations to come. Change begins with us as individuals and it’s up to us to make an effort and be the change we aspire to see in our communities. If we all could advocate for the importance of education and strive to leave our communities a little better than we met, we will be able to effect change and create a sturdy foundation that allows individuals to develop, maintain peace and craft sustainable value for themselves. It is not an easy task but we can do it if we have a sense of strong will & conviction.
Those who grew up in the rural areas or under challenging circumstances, and have made it in life; do have the duty and mandate to go and give back to the communities they grew up in and motivate the youths there to keep dreaming big. If they made it coming from such an environment anyone else can make it too. We all have a greater responsibility to ensure that we prevent future generations from being trapped in perpetual ignorance. If we keep hope alive, the future looks bright. Let’s keep the fight and dreaming big!
Saturday, May 19, 2012
Choosing A Lifetime Partner
Social and Counseling Day at St Pauls Highfields
Today I was invited as a guest speaker at the Social and Counseling day, St Pauls Highfields Harare under the theme:
“Make a Choice, Get up and Go…” Joshua 24:15, Micah 2:10 & Deut 1:6-8”
The event was being organized by the Anglican Youth Association of Harare. Some of the guests included Mrs Avril Dhlamini, Rev Fr B.C Gwashero and Pastor Rupere. When I got a phone call from Mrs Dhlamini requesting me to go I was a bit hesitant. Coming from a very long and hectic working week, I was planning to dodge the invitation so that I will allow myself to sleep in and take some much needed rest. But when I woke up this morning, I told myself that I must go regardless how tired I was & indeed, I don’t regret the decision; If there is one person who benefited the most from this event, it was me.
I had an opportunity to interact with the youths and get to know them and did a bit of mentorship and motivational speaking. Fr Gwashero had the following words to share with the youths:
Fr Gwashero –Choosing a lifetime partner
In whatever we do, it is important to know what we stand for and be clear with what we want out of your lives. It is important to acquire wisdom from God and make it our daily bread. Principles of choosing a life partner are crucial and they have a huge effect in determining our future. As we move from the primary stage to secondary stage in life, we need to understand the responsibilities that come with adulthood. As a Christian it’s crucial to try living a mistake free life by all means. When it comes to marriage, note that marriage is a sacrament and it is a covenant that should never be broken. Once you decide to marry someone, make sure it goes according to God’s will and that you don’t regret the decision. Once you say I do on your wedding day, know it’s a sacrament that gets to be sealed in Heaven and should not be broken. It is not a heat and run situation like in a game of cricket.
Here are the seven principles that should guide us in the process of choosing a life partner
1.Do not marry a non believer who will compromise your faith.2 Corinthians6 vs 16-18. Light and darkness should never mix. Ask yourself is the person you call your girlfriend or boyfriend challenges your faith to keep growing? Does he/she inspire you to be a better person and make you keep growing in Christ? Does she stand in the values of God? If not, you may have to reconsider. If you meet a non believer, no matter how handsome or pretty or attractive they maybe, if they refuse to go in the line of God ask them why they don’t like God. If you can’t change them, then its best you change your route and leave them alone but keep on praying for them that maybe one day they will see the light. Don’t ever ignore the important fundamentals and the red flags. Don’t be deceived by the looks alone or physical aspects. Know that courtship and dating is like examination time, don’t ignore the fundamentals!
2.Do not get married when you are too young. Marriage is for adults, who can make deep-seated decisions. Getting married and starting a family comes with a lot of responsibilities that require a lot of dedication and commitment. Getting married while in your teens is highly discouraged. If you marry while too young, chances of getting divorce are high as well.
3.Do not marry based instant feelings of lust. Marriage is more that the physical appearance of someone and satisfying immediate feelings. There should be more substance, something that will still hold you together even when all the good looks are gone.
4.Sexual intercourse is designed for those who are married. There should be clear understanding that marriage is a fusion of cultural, mental, physical, intellectual, social and sexual connection between a couple. You should be able to relate with your partner in all aspects of the fore mentioned. You should be able to bond with whoever you wish to marry. If you start occupying your mind with sexual desires while still dating, it corrupts your mind and will lead you into temptation and the urge to indulge in sex with your partner. And this is not favorable in the eyes of God.
5.Do not get married under pressure. Internal and external pressures are both included here. Never get married from self induced thoughts like “I am ugly, I may never find anyone else who will love me as much, or I am too old now, if I wait any longer no one is going to marry me”. Never allow yourself to succumb to pressure, wait on God’s time; it is the best. Do not marry because your family is putting you under pressure and all your friends have families. If you are not ready and if God is telling you otherwise, be patient and listen to His voice.
6.Do not get married as a status symbol because it is like building a castle on sand, the foundation is not strong and is bound to crumple. Everyone was created different by God and have a different calling, so if everyone around you is married and has a family; stand strong in your faith knowing that at the right time, God makes everything work for the good!
7.You should marry someone you have thoroughly taken time to know and understand. Don’t be blinded by love at first sight. Take time to know your potential partner, what they like and what they don’t like. Always be assertive and know what you want, know yourself and what you stand for. Ask yourself what you want out of your relationship and make sure you don’t compromise. You may never fully understand a person but do get to know the fundamentals & see if you can tolerate them or not before you say yes to marriage. Do not marry someone you have known for less than a year, spend time together and get to know each other. Above all be responsible and take care of yourself.
Today I was invited as a guest speaker at the Social and Counseling day, St Pauls Highfields Harare under the theme:
“Make a Choice, Get up and Go…” Joshua 24:15, Micah 2:10 & Deut 1:6-8”
The event was being organized by the Anglican Youth Association of Harare. Some of the guests included Mrs Avril Dhlamini, Rev Fr B.C Gwashero and Pastor Rupere. When I got a phone call from Mrs Dhlamini requesting me to go I was a bit hesitant. Coming from a very long and hectic working week, I was planning to dodge the invitation so that I will allow myself to sleep in and take some much needed rest. But when I woke up this morning, I told myself that I must go regardless how tired I was & indeed, I don’t regret the decision; If there is one person who benefited the most from this event, it was me.
I had an opportunity to interact with the youths and get to know them and did a bit of mentorship and motivational speaking. Fr Gwashero had the following words to share with the youths:
Fr Gwashero –Choosing a lifetime partner
In whatever we do, it is important to know what we stand for and be clear with what we want out of your lives. It is important to acquire wisdom from God and make it our daily bread. Principles of choosing a life partner are crucial and they have a huge effect in determining our future. As we move from the primary stage to secondary stage in life, we need to understand the responsibilities that come with adulthood. As a Christian it’s crucial to try living a mistake free life by all means. When it comes to marriage, note that marriage is a sacrament and it is a covenant that should never be broken. Once you decide to marry someone, make sure it goes according to God’s will and that you don’t regret the decision. Once you say I do on your wedding day, know it’s a sacrament that gets to be sealed in Heaven and should not be broken. It is not a heat and run situation like in a game of cricket.
Here are the seven principles that should guide us in the process of choosing a life partner
1.Do not marry a non believer who will compromise your faith.2 Corinthians6 vs 16-18. Light and darkness should never mix. Ask yourself is the person you call your girlfriend or boyfriend challenges your faith to keep growing? Does he/she inspire you to be a better person and make you keep growing in Christ? Does she stand in the values of God? If not, you may have to reconsider. If you meet a non believer, no matter how handsome or pretty or attractive they maybe, if they refuse to go in the line of God ask them why they don’t like God. If you can’t change them, then its best you change your route and leave them alone but keep on praying for them that maybe one day they will see the light. Don’t ever ignore the important fundamentals and the red flags. Don’t be deceived by the looks alone or physical aspects. Know that courtship and dating is like examination time, don’t ignore the fundamentals!
2.Do not get married when you are too young. Marriage is for adults, who can make deep-seated decisions. Getting married and starting a family comes with a lot of responsibilities that require a lot of dedication and commitment. Getting married while in your teens is highly discouraged. If you marry while too young, chances of getting divorce are high as well.
3.Do not marry based instant feelings of lust. Marriage is more that the physical appearance of someone and satisfying immediate feelings. There should be more substance, something that will still hold you together even when all the good looks are gone.
4.Sexual intercourse is designed for those who are married. There should be clear understanding that marriage is a fusion of cultural, mental, physical, intellectual, social and sexual connection between a couple. You should be able to relate with your partner in all aspects of the fore mentioned. You should be able to bond with whoever you wish to marry. If you start occupying your mind with sexual desires while still dating, it corrupts your mind and will lead you into temptation and the urge to indulge in sex with your partner. And this is not favorable in the eyes of God.
5.Do not get married under pressure. Internal and external pressures are both included here. Never get married from self induced thoughts like “I am ugly, I may never find anyone else who will love me as much, or I am too old now, if I wait any longer no one is going to marry me”. Never allow yourself to succumb to pressure, wait on God’s time; it is the best. Do not marry because your family is putting you under pressure and all your friends have families. If you are not ready and if God is telling you otherwise, be patient and listen to His voice.
6.Do not get married as a status symbol because it is like building a castle on sand, the foundation is not strong and is bound to crumple. Everyone was created different by God and have a different calling, so if everyone around you is married and has a family; stand strong in your faith knowing that at the right time, God makes everything work for the good!
7.You should marry someone you have thoroughly taken time to know and understand. Don’t be blinded by love at first sight. Take time to know your potential partner, what they like and what they don’t like. Always be assertive and know what you want, know yourself and what you stand for. Ask yourself what you want out of your relationship and make sure you don’t compromise. You may never fully understand a person but do get to know the fundamentals & see if you can tolerate them or not before you say yes to marriage. Do not marry someone you have known for less than a year, spend time together and get to know each other. Above all be responsible and take care of yourself.
Monday, May 14, 2012
Re-Invent Yourself
Don’t wait too long to take action, it’s your life and you live it once so you better make it count. Remember there is more to life than being stuck in a pathetically abusive relationship. And by abusive it’s not only corporal abuse um talking about; poignant abuse does count as well. Don’t be stuck or caught “having forty winks”; love yourself enough to walk out and move on with your life. All human beings do grow and when we have outgrown our present circumstances, it could be time to move on or better still it could be time for reinvention.
Personally, I have taken some re-invention journeys in my life from career changes, to relocation to self-employment to ending toxic relationships. As long as your re-invention is a blessing to yourself and those around you, I say GO FOR IT. If the rhythm of life changes beat, it could be the perfect time to seek some re-inventions. Don’t be stuck in abusive relationships, there is more to life than someone foot stomping you. Keep your head up and move on. You deserve the best out of your life so perhaps it’s time to do something about it, Some Re-Invention On The Move!
You are Beautiful; God created you in His Image so love yourself and take care of yourself. Even when you feel hopeless in your situation, remember God cares, His grace is sufficient enough to see you through any obstacle.
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me, I have the power to face all conditions through the power Christ gives me”
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Miss Zimbabwe 2012 Finale
...and the winner is 'Drum Roll...'
Friday 27 April 2012.
It was a hive of activity at the HICC as people from all walks of life converged at Harare International Conference Center for the historic crowning of Miss Zimbabwe 2012. Artists to grace the event included the likes of Cindy Munyavi, Pauline Gundidza, Rocqui, Dereck Mpofu, Adiona, Willis Wataffi Afrika and the legend himself Mr Oliver Mtukudzi.
There were a total of 29 girls running for the Miss Zimbabwe crown. The theme for the 2012 Miss Zimbabwe pageant was “I am Zimbabwean" showing the nation of Zimbabwean and the world beyond how we are proud of our how heritage. As the nation of Zimbabwe celebrated its 32nd Independence, under the theme "Social and Economic Development through Youth Empowerment and Indegenization", the “I am Zimbabwean” was very befitting for the 2012 pageant.
By the end of the night, we saw,myself Ruvimbo Katiyo a delegate from Miss Zimbabwe-USA being crowned 2nd Princess while Petinah Nhamburo,1st princess Miss Mashonaland West 2011 was crowned 1st Princess. Bongani Dlakama Miss Bulawayo 2011 walked away with the much coveted crown of Miss Zimbabwe 2012. The Miss Zimbabwe 2012 pageant proceeded well against all odds and amidst all the challenges that the Miss Zimbabwe Trust faced along the journey. With that said, I would like to thank the Miss Zimbabwe trust for their dedication and tireless effort they put to make the pageant a success. As one of the rightfully chosen ambassadress of Miss Zimbabwe Trust for the coming year, I promise to do my best during my reign in-order to raise the banner higher for Miss Zimbabwe Trust within and beyond the borders of Zimbabwe. And I pledge to stay true to my roots,to raise Zimbabwe's flag higher on the International scene and carry my title with pride, honor and dignity.
I am Zimbabwean, Proud & Loud; Red,Green,Yellow,Black & White the colors of my flag,embroiled in my heart so that they Wont fade. Even beyond the borders of Zimbabwe,I stand tall & remain Proudly Zimbabwean!
I love my country #Proudly-Zimbabwean!
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Breaking the Silence about Miss Zimbabwe 2012 search
Regai kungo shora,there are two sides to every coin...
Ever since the Miss Zimbabwe 2012 search began, I have been reading a lot of negative comments and sometimes harsh remarks being passed on about the selection of the 2012 Miss Zimbabwe Finalists. Being one of the finalists, I am a bit insipid but not marred by some of the remarks being passed by my fellow countrymen. On various media platforms, the 2012 finalists are being ripped apart and butchered from left to right, and being regarded as ‘sad stories’ to ever happen in the Zimbabwe beauty pageant history. With the finals slowly approaching on the 27th of April we have successfully manage to remain tight-lipped and stay put. None of us has really broken the silence to retaliate but it doesn't mean that we are neither blind nor totally immune to the harsh words our fellow countrymen are passing towards us.
Surprisingly, most of the people who are passing on such a negative vibe are people who barely know the finalists in profundity and they have never met them in person. Everyone is entitled to their opinion, including myself but I believe if you all, my fellow Zimbos; would get a chance to meet some of the 2012 finalists in person you will get to appreciate their high level of competency and appreciate their worth as fellow Zimbabweans who are proud of their heritage and are working hard to represent the nation to the best of their abilities. I challenge you my fellow countrymen to stop looking at Miss Zimbabwe 2012 contestants from the top of the bottle but try to get to know us better and what we stand for. Some of the finalists are not only beautiful, but are very intellectually strong and accomplished members of our society.
I get moved when I get generalized and pre-judged before anyone takes a look at what I bring on the table. Dwelling on some of the comments passed , labeling the finalists 'as creatures from the bush that are incompetent to stand on the Miss World stage,' it just sounds so blunt & exhibits a certain level of ignorance to me. Speaking for myself here, I would like to complacently highlight that UM BEAUTIFULLY, FEARFULLY & WONDERFULLY MADE and um not a creature from the bush! I consider myself competent enough to meet the international standard in all aspects. For anyone who doubts my competence as an individual or that of any other Miss Zimbabwe 2012 finalist I would like to highlight that some of us have participated in international pageants before & fared really well, not to mention participating in some highly regarded fashion shows in New York, Texas, Washington DC to mention just a few. So if you doubt our capabilities to represent Zimbabwe on the international scene then you may need to think twice or at least give me proof of validity for your assessment of my incapability to be considered as Miss Zimbabwe Finalist 2012.
Like I said before, everyone is entitled to their own opinions, but brace yourselves up Zimbos, you may be shocked of how magnificently bright Miss Zimbabwe 2012 will shine on the Miss World platform by bringing the Miss World crown to Zimbabwe! Regai kungo shora-shora pese pese. Mucha shora mbodza neino zvimbira!
When all is said and done, people of benevolence and good faith; let’s try to achieve a common ground here and support our Miss Zimbabwe 2012 finalists on this journey of searching for a delegate that will represent Zimbabwe at Miss World 2012. Vaguely passing on none stop disparagement towards the finalists without giving sound advice yields no progress; & we will be all doomed to fail. By the end of the day, we all want to come up with the rightful delegate befitting to proudly represent Zimbabwe on the international scene, so let’s work together as a nation to bring the best out of the finalists without bringing them down and destroying their confidence. Bear in mind that a title like Miss Zimbabwe comes along with national duties, so let’s work together as a nation to make sure that our rightfully chosen candidate fares really well during her reign. Instead of dwelling on the bad and negativity in each other, let’s focus our energy on the positive in each other. Together, we can produce an antique that will prove to be rare and valuable within and beyond the borders of Zimbabwe!
Be Blessed and don’t forget to be a Blessing to others!
Ever since the Miss Zimbabwe 2012 search began, I have been reading a lot of negative comments and sometimes harsh remarks being passed on about the selection of the 2012 Miss Zimbabwe Finalists. Being one of the finalists, I am a bit insipid but not marred by some of the remarks being passed by my fellow countrymen. On various media platforms, the 2012 finalists are being ripped apart and butchered from left to right, and being regarded as ‘sad stories’ to ever happen in the Zimbabwe beauty pageant history. With the finals slowly approaching on the 27th of April we have successfully manage to remain tight-lipped and stay put. None of us has really broken the silence to retaliate but it doesn't mean that we are neither blind nor totally immune to the harsh words our fellow countrymen are passing towards us.
Surprisingly, most of the people who are passing on such a negative vibe are people who barely know the finalists in profundity and they have never met them in person. Everyone is entitled to their opinion, including myself but I believe if you all, my fellow Zimbos; would get a chance to meet some of the 2012 finalists in person you will get to appreciate their high level of competency and appreciate their worth as fellow Zimbabweans who are proud of their heritage and are working hard to represent the nation to the best of their abilities. I challenge you my fellow countrymen to stop looking at Miss Zimbabwe 2012 contestants from the top of the bottle but try to get to know us better and what we stand for. Some of the finalists are not only beautiful, but are very intellectually strong and accomplished members of our society.
I get moved when I get generalized and pre-judged before anyone takes a look at what I bring on the table. Dwelling on some of the comments passed , labeling the finalists 'as creatures from the bush that are incompetent to stand on the Miss World stage,' it just sounds so blunt & exhibits a certain level of ignorance to me. Speaking for myself here, I would like to complacently highlight that UM BEAUTIFULLY, FEARFULLY & WONDERFULLY MADE and um not a creature from the bush! I consider myself competent enough to meet the international standard in all aspects. For anyone who doubts my competence as an individual or that of any other Miss Zimbabwe 2012 finalist I would like to highlight that some of us have participated in international pageants before & fared really well, not to mention participating in some highly regarded fashion shows in New York, Texas, Washington DC to mention just a few. So if you doubt our capabilities to represent Zimbabwe on the international scene then you may need to think twice or at least give me proof of validity for your assessment of my incapability to be considered as Miss Zimbabwe Finalist 2012.
Like I said before, everyone is entitled to their own opinions, but brace yourselves up Zimbos, you may be shocked of how magnificently bright Miss Zimbabwe 2012 will shine on the Miss World platform by bringing the Miss World crown to Zimbabwe! Regai kungo shora-shora pese pese. Mucha shora mbodza neino zvimbira!
When all is said and done, people of benevolence and good faith; let’s try to achieve a common ground here and support our Miss Zimbabwe 2012 finalists on this journey of searching for a delegate that will represent Zimbabwe at Miss World 2012. Vaguely passing on none stop disparagement towards the finalists without giving sound advice yields no progress; & we will be all doomed to fail. By the end of the day, we all want to come up with the rightful delegate befitting to proudly represent Zimbabwe on the international scene, so let’s work together as a nation to bring the best out of the finalists without bringing them down and destroying their confidence. Bear in mind that a title like Miss Zimbabwe comes along with national duties, so let’s work together as a nation to make sure that our rightfully chosen candidate fares really well during her reign. Instead of dwelling on the bad and negativity in each other, let’s focus our energy on the positive in each other. Together, we can produce an antique that will prove to be rare and valuable within and beyond the borders of Zimbabwe!
Be Blessed and don’t forget to be a Blessing to others!
Sunday Mail Front Cover
Front Cover...
In September 2011, I attended Miss Zimbabwe 2011 Malaika Mushandu's fundraising dinner in New Lands. The dinner gave me an opportunity to socialize with a lot of people in Zimbabwe's Fashion circles. It was during the event that Sunday Mail approached me and brought to my attention that they wanted me to grace the cover of the upcoming Sunday Mail together with Malaika Mushandu (Miss Zimbabwe 2011 title holder) and Bisma Ahmed, fashion designer at B'zma Fashion Wear!
In September 2011, I attended Miss Zimbabwe 2011 Malaika Mushandu's fundraising dinner in New Lands. The dinner gave me an opportunity to socialize with a lot of people in Zimbabwe's Fashion circles. It was during the event that Sunday Mail approached me and brought to my attention that they wanted me to grace the cover of the upcoming Sunday Mail together with Malaika Mushandu (Miss Zimbabwe 2011 title holder) and Bisma Ahmed, fashion designer at B'zma Fashion Wear!
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe Fashion Week
My first big event in Zimbabwe upon my arrival from USA was Zimbabwe Fashion Week. I was invited for all the events that were scheduled for the fashion week and I truly had a very insightful experience while I was at it. However, I enjoyed most the last day of the fashion week which was Saturday, the FINALE. Vimbai Mutinhiri (Big Brother Africa finalist) and myself were invited to grace the finale show as show stopper and show opener respectively. My good friend Bisma Ahmed of B'zma fashion wear's collection closed the Zimbabwe Fashion Week curtains. Below are photos from ZFW!
My first big event in Zimbabwe upon my arrival from USA was Zimbabwe Fashion Week. I was invited for all the events that were scheduled for the fashion week and I truly had a very insightful experience while I was at it. However, I enjoyed most the last day of the fashion week which was Saturday, the FINALE. Vimbai Mutinhiri (Big Brother Africa finalist) and myself were invited to grace the finale show as show stopper and show opener respectively. My good friend Bisma Ahmed of B'zma fashion wear's collection closed the Zimbabwe Fashion Week curtains. Below are photos from ZFW!
Breaking the Silence...
My Return!
So its been a while since I last posted something on my blog. Days have been hectic but I will share a detailed account of what I have been up to and my current projects. I hope this blog will be as insightful and informative as ever. Since I last blogged last year,2011 that is; I will try to post a detailed run down of what I have been up to till this date.
So enjoy....
So its been a while since I last posted something on my blog. Days have been hectic but I will share a detailed account of what I have been up to and my current projects. I hope this blog will be as insightful and informative as ever. Since I last blogged last year,2011 that is; I will try to post a detailed run down of what I have been up to till this date.
So enjoy....
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
US-based Zimbo, Ruvimbo Violet Katiyo, Makes a Breakthrough in Fashion Industry
Below is an interview that I had all put nicely together:
Tuesday, 20 March 2012
by Aleksandra Solomatova (Sasha),Berea College Kentucky USA
With less than a year after attaining her Bachelors in Chemistry from Berea College, Ruvimbo Violet Katiyo, from Zimbabwe, is convinced that she is ready to conquer the world and keep flying her nation’s flag high. Jack-of-all-trades as we know her, Ruvimbo is also a designer, model, athlete and an artist. Being a trend setter she is, Ruvimbo used to play number 1 seed for Berea’s tennis team and was the first African at Berea to be awarded the Wilson Evans Tennis Award; a true reflection of her hard work and sheer dedication. As an Entrepreneurship for the Public Good fellow, she attended high profile conferences such as the Harvard Africa Business Conference in Boston and participated in the glamorous New York Africa Fashion Week. Ruvimbo is undoubtedly a phenomenal woman who works hard to make her dreams come true.
Tell us more about your life after Berea College.
It has been full of eye opening experiences. The biggest challenge I faced was making a decision to leave USA for Zimbabwe. My first stop was Johannesburg, South Africa where I was scheduled to start work but my heart was at home and I had a big vision and dream about things I wanted to achieve while in the Zimbabwean soils, so I left South Africa for Zimbabwe and never looked back. I always felt hugely indebted to give back to the country that raised me & cultured me into the person I am today, a nation whose cultural norms and values are embroiled in my heart & wrapped with red, green, yellow, black & white, the colors of Zimbabwe’s flag. When I arrived in Zimbabwe, I knew exactly what I wanted and went for that without blinking twice. I wanted to make a breakthrough in the fashion Industry and be a social entrepreneur and that’s exactly what I am working on right now. I haven’t fully established my empire, but um getting there.
What was the most profound experience for you at Berea and how did it impact your future?
Being at Berea College and in USA was very insightful on its own, however I have top encounters that really had a significant role in shaping me into the person I am today. Being selected to be an Entrepreneurship for the Public Good Fellow (EPG) in 2009 was definitely a big accomplishment for me. This prestigious feat opened so many doors of opportunities for me and it empowered me socially, economically and intellectually. It instilled in me the culture of entrepreneurship and groomed me into the lady I am today, very confident and hardworking. Attending the Harvard Africa Business Conference in Boston Massachusetts in February 2011 gave me an opportunity to meet and learn from leaders and entrepreneurs from all over Africa including Zimbabwe’s Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Arthur Mutambara. It was an eye opener and inspired me to dream bigger beyond just having a Chemistry degree. I was challenged to develop a mindset of an entrepreneur and to look around me for business opportunities I could pursue. My most significant accomplishment has got to be the prestigious Wilson Evans Tennis Award that I was honored with in April 2011. I couldn’t believe my ears when Coach Allen Jackson called out my name as the 2011 female recipient of the Award. Being the first African and definitely the first Zimbabwean to get that award, I was completely humbled and proud at the same time for flying Zimbabwe’s flag on the international platform. My name will be hanging in Seabury Centre’s wall of fame for ever; indeed what an honor for me and my country!
What was your dream career path at Berea?
To attain my Bachelors in Chemistry but during my second semester, I realized my real passion was in Art and Fashion and because of that, I started taking drawing and painting classes to perfect my skills in art while still focusing on my major, Chemistry. What are your future plans? None academic wise, I plan to take my passion for fashion seriously and launch my own label before the end of 2012. I am already working on the pieces as of speaking. I am also working with Plan International on some projects that are still underway and my plan is to reach out to more districts in Zimbabwe with the “Because I am A Girl Campaign”, inspiring and empowering the girl child to dream bigger and equip them with tools to become self sufficient. When all is said and done, I would like to get married and become a mother.
What suggestions would you give to current Berea students?
Dare to dream big! When you have a passion for something; go for it and don’t allow anything to stop you. When I made a decision to return back to Zimbabwe, some of my friends both in Zimbabwe & USA thought I was absurd and tried to talk me out of it. But I was very adamant and stayed resolute to my vision and what I wanted out of my life. Looking back, I am glad to say I have no regrets. I may not be doing huge “Oprah Winfrey” kind of projects but um slowly expanding my horizons and in no time, I will be where I want to be. I hope in a few years time, I will be an inspiration to other international students and challenge them to return to their home countries and be the agents of change they aspire to see. Life is not all about “the American dream”, we too can be trend setters and make it big in our home countries. Change begins with us as individuals and it’s up to us to make an effort and be the change we aspire to see in our communities.
Source: Berea College Alumni Web Page
Below is an interview that I had all put nicely together:
Tuesday, 20 March 2012
by Aleksandra Solomatova (Sasha),Berea College Kentucky USA
With less than a year after attaining her Bachelors in Chemistry from Berea College, Ruvimbo Violet Katiyo, from Zimbabwe, is convinced that she is ready to conquer the world and keep flying her nation’s flag high. Jack-of-all-trades as we know her, Ruvimbo is also a designer, model, athlete and an artist. Being a trend setter she is, Ruvimbo used to play number 1 seed for Berea’s tennis team and was the first African at Berea to be awarded the Wilson Evans Tennis Award; a true reflection of her hard work and sheer dedication. As an Entrepreneurship for the Public Good fellow, she attended high profile conferences such as the Harvard Africa Business Conference in Boston and participated in the glamorous New York Africa Fashion Week. Ruvimbo is undoubtedly a phenomenal woman who works hard to make her dreams come true.
Tell us more about your life after Berea College.
It has been full of eye opening experiences. The biggest challenge I faced was making a decision to leave USA for Zimbabwe. My first stop was Johannesburg, South Africa where I was scheduled to start work but my heart was at home and I had a big vision and dream about things I wanted to achieve while in the Zimbabwean soils, so I left South Africa for Zimbabwe and never looked back. I always felt hugely indebted to give back to the country that raised me & cultured me into the person I am today, a nation whose cultural norms and values are embroiled in my heart & wrapped with red, green, yellow, black & white, the colors of Zimbabwe’s flag. When I arrived in Zimbabwe, I knew exactly what I wanted and went for that without blinking twice. I wanted to make a breakthrough in the fashion Industry and be a social entrepreneur and that’s exactly what I am working on right now. I haven’t fully established my empire, but um getting there.
What was the most profound experience for you at Berea and how did it impact your future?
Being at Berea College and in USA was very insightful on its own, however I have top encounters that really had a significant role in shaping me into the person I am today. Being selected to be an Entrepreneurship for the Public Good Fellow (EPG) in 2009 was definitely a big accomplishment for me. This prestigious feat opened so many doors of opportunities for me and it empowered me socially, economically and intellectually. It instilled in me the culture of entrepreneurship and groomed me into the lady I am today, very confident and hardworking. Attending the Harvard Africa Business Conference in Boston Massachusetts in February 2011 gave me an opportunity to meet and learn from leaders and entrepreneurs from all over Africa including Zimbabwe’s Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Arthur Mutambara. It was an eye opener and inspired me to dream bigger beyond just having a Chemistry degree. I was challenged to develop a mindset of an entrepreneur and to look around me for business opportunities I could pursue. My most significant accomplishment has got to be the prestigious Wilson Evans Tennis Award that I was honored with in April 2011. I couldn’t believe my ears when Coach Allen Jackson called out my name as the 2011 female recipient of the Award. Being the first African and definitely the first Zimbabwean to get that award, I was completely humbled and proud at the same time for flying Zimbabwe’s flag on the international platform. My name will be hanging in Seabury Centre’s wall of fame for ever; indeed what an honor for me and my country!
What was your dream career path at Berea?
To attain my Bachelors in Chemistry but during my second semester, I realized my real passion was in Art and Fashion and because of that, I started taking drawing and painting classes to perfect my skills in art while still focusing on my major, Chemistry. What are your future plans? None academic wise, I plan to take my passion for fashion seriously and launch my own label before the end of 2012. I am already working on the pieces as of speaking. I am also working with Plan International on some projects that are still underway and my plan is to reach out to more districts in Zimbabwe with the “Because I am A Girl Campaign”, inspiring and empowering the girl child to dream bigger and equip them with tools to become self sufficient. When all is said and done, I would like to get married and become a mother.
What suggestions would you give to current Berea students?
Dare to dream big! When you have a passion for something; go for it and don’t allow anything to stop you. When I made a decision to return back to Zimbabwe, some of my friends both in Zimbabwe & USA thought I was absurd and tried to talk me out of it. But I was very adamant and stayed resolute to my vision and what I wanted out of my life. Looking back, I am glad to say I have no regrets. I may not be doing huge “Oprah Winfrey” kind of projects but um slowly expanding my horizons and in no time, I will be where I want to be. I hope in a few years time, I will be an inspiration to other international students and challenge them to return to their home countries and be the agents of change they aspire to see. Life is not all about “the American dream”, we too can be trend setters and make it big in our home countries. Change begins with us as individuals and it’s up to us to make an effort and be the change we aspire to see in our communities.
Source: Berea College Alumni Web Page
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