Zimbabwe: Youth who thrive and shine in a DrugFree and GBVFree society

My name is Mpofu Shelyne Chisango, an ALevel student and Junior Chairperson for Gokwe South Rural District. I come from Gokwe South, Zimbabwe a community full of potential but deeply affected by the challenges facing many rural youths today: drug and substance abuse, gender based violence (GBV), limited opportunities, and the social pressures that derail young people before they realize their purpose. 

Growing up in this environment shaped my passion for youth empowerment. I became determined to become the voice of the voiceless, especially young people whose futures are threatened by drugs, peer pressure, and unhealthy relationships. My leadership is driven by a belief that youth are the foundation of community development, and that their wellbeing determines whether communities thrive or crumble. 

My vision is clear: a drugfree and GBVfree Gokwe South by 2027 a community where young people learn, lead, create and shine. Before our interventions, many young people in Gokwe South were spiraling into dangerous patterns. Drug and substance abuse was destroying futures. Academic performance declined, with learners struggling to concentrate or dropping out of school altogether. GBV cases especially among teenagers in unhealthy relationships were rising, leading to early pregnancies, early marriages, and long-term trauma. 

Young people lacked accurate information about mental health, healthy relationships, and the risks associated with drug misuse. Stigma and silence prevented many from seeking help. Youth engagement was low, community participation weak, and the social environment unsafe for many girls and boys. Gokwe South’s youth needed support, guidance, education, and safe spaces. They needed someone to stand up and say: Enough is enough we deserve better. 

Determined to create a safer community, I launched the Youth for a Safe Future campaign a youth led movement aimed at fighting drug abuse, preventing GBV, and promoting mental wellbeing. Through school workshops, creative competitions, guidance sessions and community outreach, we educated young people about, the dangers of drug use, healthy, respectful relationships, mental health and seeking support, rights and responsibilities as youth, the importance of staying in school and pursuing their dreams 

We created platforms where survivors of GBV could share their experiences without fear or judgement breaking the silence that had held many captives for years. Young people began opening up about their challenges, leading to the formation of support groups to provide ongoing encouragement and mentorship. We also organized art and music competitions, giving young people the opportunity to express themselves creatively while raising awareness about drugs and GBV. Community cleanup days encouraged teamwork, responsibility and a positive sense of belonging. 

Schools reported improved academic performance and fewer disciplinary issues. Youth participation in programs increased. More young people are now joining community led projects, showcasing talents, and focusing on personal growth. GBV awareness has strengthened relationships built on respect, while drug abuse is gradually declining as attitudes shift. Gokwe South is becoming a community where young people no longer live in fear or silence, but stand tall, speak out, and work together for a brighter future. 

Before the campaign, youth had limited safe spaces. After launching Youth for a Safe Future, young people began attending events in large numbers, with schools reporting improved behavior, openness and peer support. More learners were speaking confidently in class, participating in discussions, and advocating for their own rights. Today, Gokwe South is witnessing a shift from hopelessness to empowerment a shift led and sustained by young people themselves. 

Mpofu Shelyne Chisango, Zimbabwe

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