From a rural village to the top of her class

Tatenda

Growing up in the rural village of Mhondoro, Tatenda watched her father pass away, and her mother, a subsistence farmer, struggle to raise money to pay school fees for Tatenda and her siblings.  At risk of dropping out of school, Tatenda was identified as a candidate for sponsorship through Tariro by a local village headman and Tariro trustee, Cosmas Magaya.  Tatenda was enrolled in Tariro in 2003, and has made amazing progress during the six years she has received sponsorship through our organization.

Studying at the Rwizi Secondary School in her village, Tatenda dreamed of someday becoming a college graduate.  She achieved an important first step on the road to college when she passed her Ordinary Level exams in 2007, with high marks which put her on track to pursuing college preparatory classes.  Because her rural high school did not offer the advanced level studies necessary to apply to university, Tariro helped Tatenda transfer to the UMMA Institute, a secondary school with boarding facilities, where she has studied and lived for the past two years.

In July, Tatenda wrote her Advanced Level exams.  Not only did Tatenda pass all three of the subjects she wrote for her exams, but she received the highest score in geography in her entire school.  Tatenda is now well on her way to realizing her dreams of attending college.  Through Tariro, Tatenda has also been matched with a mentor who has hosted her during school holidays, and who is working with her to help her formulate plans for next year, once she finishes high school.

Through Tariro’s sponsorship, this remarkable young Zimbabwean woman has benefited from the chance to finish her education.  She is a true future leader for her community.   Please join Tariro in helping young women and girls like Tatenda to receive an education!  Spread the word about Tariro’s great work to family and friends, and visit our website to learn more about our work.