Marceline: I’m speaking up for girls and students with disabilities whose voices often go unheard

5 minute read

From long walks to big dreams of becoming a Veterinary Doctor

Growing up in Zimbabwe’s rural Mount Darwin district as the eldest of three children, I always loved science and dreamed of continuing my education. However, living with a physical disability meant that everyday tasks were far more challenging than they should have been.

For many years, simply getting to school was one of my biggest challenges. My mother and grandmother worked tirelessly, yet still struggled to afford my school fees, stationery, and transport. As a result, I walked long distances every day, often leaving home as early as 5 am. By the time I arrived, I was already exhausted. 

The physical strain was heavy and focusing in class after such a journey was incredibly difficult. There were days when I wondered whether I could keep going. My confidence was low, and I labelled myself as a nobody. I couldn’t even begin to dream. 

Everything changed when my community recommended me for CAMFED support. CAMFED covered my school fees, and provided everything I needed to thrive in school, including stationery and food. 

I am also mentored by a Learner Guide, Yvonne, who, like me, was once supported in school by CAMFED, and is now a member of the CAMFED Association of women leaders. She is like a “big sister” and role model, guiding us through My Better World life skills and wellbeing sessions.

Here I am with my Learner Guide and classmates during a study circle session at my school.

A major turning point came when CAMFED supported my community to establish a low-cost, sustainable boarding facility at my school. For the first time, I was able to live just minutes away from my classroom. Together with my fellow female students, we’ve created a warm and safe environment, where we can rest, study, and support one another.

The boarding facility is run by Ms. Guta, our matron and Teacher Mentor—a government teacher trained in guidance and counseling by CAMFED. She lives with us and provides both academic guidance and emotional support. Her presence, along with the supportive environment, has made it possible for me to focus fully on my studies and pursue leadership roles.

Ms. Guta, my Teacher Mentor (left,) with Angeline (Angie) Murimirwa, CAMFED CEO.

Reaching new heights through education and leadership

With the burden of long, painful walks lifted, I began to thrive—not only academically, but as a leader. Today, I serve as the President of my school’s Child Protection Committee, looking out for my fellow students and raising awareness about safeguarding issues, including early pregnancy and neglect. 

I am also a Junior Parliamentarian and Senator, speaking up for young people—especially girls and students with disabilities whose voices often go unheard. Leadership has helped me grow in confidence and shown me that my experiences can be a source of strength, not limitation. 

Meeting CAMFED’s leader, Angeline Murimirwa, was one of the most powerful moments of my journey. Sitting with her and hearing her story made everything feel possible in a new way. When she told me, “The sky is not even the limit—you can go beyond it,” those words stayed with me, reminding me that my background, disability, and challenges do not define how far I can go.

Here I am with Angeline (Angie) Murimirwa, CAMFED CEO.

Seeing a woman who had once faced her own hardships now leading and transforming the lives of so many girls made me believe that my dreams are truly achievable. It inspired me to imagine a future where I, too, can lead, serve and uplift others.

Rising and lifting others

My dream is to become a veterinary doctor. I love animals and science, and I want to help improve the health of livestock that so many families in our communities depend on. Beyond that, I want to show other girls—especially those living with disabilities—that they too can succeed.

Many girls in my community still drop out of school because of challenges rooted in poverty. I know how easily dreams can fade without help. The CAMFED family became my ray of hope, and because of that support, I now believe in a future where girls like me are not defined by circumstance or disability, but by possibility. I hope one day to stand beside CAMFED, reaching out to the next generation of girls searching for hope.

To everyone who has walked beside me on this journey, your belief has given me strength. I am no longer just surviving, I am leading, dreaming, and shaping a brighter future. Surrounded by a strong support network and driven by purpose, I am ready to step into the world not only as a student of science, but as a changemaker.