When I met Nqobizitha Takunda Mfandaidza during the HOS SADC Summit in Zimbabwe last year, I was struck by her undeniable presence. She is a force—bold, intelligent, and unapologetically driven. Her energy pulled me in immediately, as it always does when I meet people who seem destined to leave a mark on the world. She is one of those rare individuals who inspire you simply by being themselves, and I am so proud to call her a friend.
At just 20 years old, Nqobizitha has already accomplished what many spend a lifetime striving for: finding her voice and using it to advocate for others. She lives in Beitbridge, Zimbabwe, and has a vision that extends far beyond borders or personal ambitions. Her journey into advocacy began with a desire to be part of the spaces where decisions about young people were being made. “Anything for the young people without the young people is against them,” she told me, and this simple yet profound belief has fueled her work ever since.
Nqobizitha is not motivated by personal gain. Her drive comes from her desire to see meaningful change in the world—a world where young people thrive and are taken seriously. She dreams of giving hope to the next generation and being an example that it is possible to break barriers, challenge norms, and contribute to a better future.
Her story is both powerful and deeply inspiring. Before she joined the Southern Africa Youth Forum (SAYOF), she was hesitant to put herself out there. But all it took was one moment of courage. On the first day of a conference, she stood up, spoke her mind, and was heard. It was a turning point for her. That moment showed her that her ideas are valid and that she could make a meaningful contribution to the world. And she hasn’t looked back since.
For me, Nqobizitha is not just an inspiration; she is a reminder of what is possible when passion meets purpose. I am good at making friends, but keeping them is another story. It takes someone truly special for me to connect with them beyond events, borders, and online spaces. Nqobizitha is that person for me. She is the kind of person who challenges you to be better simply by being who she is. Her passion and intelligence make me want to be her when I grow up—and I say that with the deepest admiration.
What makes Nqobizitha extraordinary is not just her advocacy work but also the way she carries herself. She believes in young people. She believes in change. She believes in creating a world where the next generation is empowered and hopeful. And she doesn’t just talk about it; she lives it.
In a world that often underestimates young people, Nqobizitha is a shining example of what happens when we are given the space to thrive. Her story reminds us that our voices matter, our ideas are valid, and we have the power to create the world we want to see.
As I reflect on our friendship and the impact she continues to make, I am filled with gratitude and admiration. People like Nqobizitha are rare, and I am so proud to know her. I know that her journey is only just beginning, and I cannot wait to see all the incredible things she will achieve.
To Nqobizitha: Thank you for being a force, for inspiring me, and for showing the world what’s possible. You make me proud, and you make me hopeful for the future.
Let us all take a page from her book and remember that change begins with us. Let’s stand up, speak out, and create the world we want to live in—just as Nqobizitha does every single day.
