Kapane Secondary School is one of Children in the Wilderness (CITW) Zambezi’s major secondary schools in Tsholotsho, and on the 31st of July 2026 hosted its first-ever Career Day. Sandra Kadzviti reports on this milestone event…
The initiative brought together professionals, institutions, educators, community representatives and mentors to introduce learners to a wide range of career opportunities, and help them begin thinking more intentionally about their futures. CITW and Wilderness Zimbabwe were proud to be part of the day, standing alongside the school representatives, and the many other partners who came out to support its learners.
CITW is proud to support the learners at the school, and 16 students are recipients of scholarships this year alone. When the school began planning its first Career Day, CITW was able to bring in professionals from across the Wilderness and CITW family to take part. Among them were Mr Peter Gava, a professional guide at Wilderness Linkwasha, Mr Mpala, a professional chef for Wilderness Zimbabwe, and Mr Dube, a lecturer from Ngamo Livestock Farm & Vocational Centre. Also present were representatives from Kapane Primary School, veterinary services, the Ministry of Education, Sipepa High School, the local clinic, the police, the Department of Journalism, and the army, giving learners the opportunity to explore careers across different fields.
With an enrollment of approximately 300 students at Kapane Secondary School, the learners were divided into nine groups, allowing them to rotate through the different career stations and departments represented at the event. At each station, learners had the opportunity to engage directly with professionals, learn about their respective fields and ask questions. This interactive approach ensured that the learners actively participated and explored different possibilities for their futures.
The theme of the Career Day, ‘Dream It, Build It, Be It’ captured the purpose of the event beautifully. Every achievement begins with a dream, but a dream on its own is not enough. Much like a seed, it needs the right environment, care and patience before it grows into something that bears fruit. Given the right guidance and encouragement, learners can nurture their passions, build the skills to match and grow into the people they hope to become. That was the practical message of the day too.
Learners were reminded that education is not simply about passing examinations, but about discovering who they are, identifying their interests and, where possible, turning those interests into a profession. The goal was to widen their sense of what is possible before they decide where they want their careers to take them.
This message was reinforced by Mr Ncube, the Senior Master at Kapane Secondary School, who shared his own personal journey with the learners. He spoke about how he once wanted to become an engineer but eventually became a teacher, and how he now also has aspirations of becoming a farmer. His story served as a powerful reminder that life does not always follow the path, we initially imagine for ourselves. Careers can evolve, interests can change and new opportunities can emerge along the way. What matters is remaining open to learning, continuing to discover oneself and having the courage to pursue new passions at different stages of life.
A particularly important part of the event was the participation of the Kapane CITW Literacy Mentors, whose dedication and teamwork contributes greatly to the success of the programme. Obright Ndlovu, the Poetry Organiser, played a key role by writing two inspiring poems and he co-ordinated students throughout their presentations, ensuring that the programme flowed smoothly and that learners received the guidance and encouragement they needed. Busisiwe Ndlovu, the Ndebele Poet, enriched the event through beautiful and meaningful Ndebele poetry. Her contribution celebrated the importance of language and culture while adding a creative and engaging element to the programme. Creating an energetic atmosphere was DJ Gareth Mhlanga, who kept the audience engaged and brought vibrancy to the event through music. Last but not the least, Doris Ncube, the Master of Ceremonies, confidently guided the programme from beginning to end, keeping the event organised, lively and enjoyable for both learners and guests.
The collaboration between the school, mentors, professionals and various institutions demonstrated what can be achieved when the community comes together to invest in young people. The event was not simply about introducing learners to careers; it was about inspiring them to dream, encouraging them to explore their potential and helping them understand that their future possibilities are much broader than what they may see around them today.
A particularly inspiring moment during the Career Day was the contribution of Praise Ncube, a Form 3 learner at Kapane Secondary School and Junior Councilor for Ward 3 in Tsholotsho District, who is also one of our CITW scholarship students. Praise delivered the Vote of Thanks, confidently representing the learners and expressing appreciation to the school, professionals, mentors and everyone who contributed to making the Career Day a success. Her participation was a powerful reminder that leadership can begin at a young age and that when young people are given the opportunity to find and use their voices, they can confidently step forward and make a meaningful contribution to their communities. Her journey also reflects the broader purpose of the Career Day – to encourage young people to recognise their potential, pursue their passions and develop the confidence to become leaders in whatever fields they choose.
The Career Day was a moment of reflection and renewal for the professionals who participated. Sharing their journeys, experiences and knowledge with the learners gave them an opportunity to pause and remember why they chose their respective professions in the first place. It allowed them to reconnect with the passion, purpose and dedication that first drew them to their fields, while reflecting on the heart they continue to pour into their work. In many ways, the experience served as a reminder of the impact their professions can have on others, renewing their sense of purpose and perhaps even making them fall in love with their craft all over again. It was therefore a mutually enriching experience – one where the learners gained inspiration for their futures, while the professionals were reminded of the value and meaning behind the paths, they had chosen.
As CITW Zambezi, we appreciate Kapane Secondary School for introducing this valuable initiative and creating such an important platform for its learners. We also extend our heartfelt appreciation to all the professionals, institutions, teachers, mentors, learners and organizers who contributed to making the day a success. May this initiative continue to inspire learners to make informed decisions about their futures, while laying the foundation for sustainable careers, communities and generations to come.
Together, we inspire. Together, we empower. Together, we build brighter futures.
