Elizabeth’s story

Youth empowerment in Zimbabwe

Elizabeth spent a two-month placement in Zimbabwe organised by the International Citizen Service (ICS). Working with ‘Restless Development’, an organisation that focuses on youth empowerment, she worked in two local schools in the small community of Biriiri, Chimanimani. Her primary role was to deliver sessions focusing on life skills and tackling issues such as alcohol and drug abuse or gender equality…

Whilst in Zimbabwe she lived with a local family, the Tuso family who opened their home in Biriiri to her and displayed such generosity of spirit.

Sadly, Elizabeth’s programme had to finish early because of security concerns in Zimbabwe. Even so Elizabeth reports that the friendships and connections she has made have educated her in so many more ways than just a simple cultural exchange, and they have offered her different perspectives on issues that she had never previously considered. She found it incredibly inspiring to see so many young people wanting to make a change and there is no doubt that her project has changed her life for ever.

Whilst in Zimbabwe Elizabeth was keen to meet with the local Catenian Circle and was grateful for their support and hospitality as well as the financial support from the Bursary Fund, which made it all possible.

Project Organiser: International Citizen Service (ICS)/Restless Development