The African Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Church, in partnership with DCK Group of Companies, has concluded a four-day youth empowerment programme aimed at equipping young people with practical skills and knowledge to succeed in life.
Held at the church centre at Industrial Sands in Gweru, the programme brought together youths from across the country for a series of workshops and activities designed to inspire, motivate and empower the next generation.
The initiative was facilitated by a team of experienced trainers and industry experts drawn from various government ministries, including the Ministry of Public Works, Labour and Social Welfare, and the Ministry of Youth.
Key facilitators included Elder Douglas Kwande, director of DCK Group of Companies, and Bishop Joshua Maponga, who delivered impactful sermons and lectures focusing on innovation, entrepreneurship and self-reliance.
The facilitators challenged young people to move away from a job-seeking mentality and instead embrace the idea of becoming job creators.
“We need young people who are innovative, creative and willing to take risks,” said Elder Kwande.
“Do not wait for someone to give you a job — create your own opportunities. Be proud of who you are, where you come from and your identity. Do not let circumstances define you; define your circumstances.”
Bishop Maponga echoed similar sentiments, urging the youths to adopt a mindset of possibility and resilience.
- New perspectives: Youth key in nation building
- New perspectives: Youth key in nation building
- Building narratives: If I were Education, Science and Tech Development minister
- Business commends AFM of Zim youth empowerment initiative
Keep Reading
“The world is full of opportunities, but it is up to you to seize them. Change paper into money, change your mindset into wealth and do not be afraid to fail — be afraid of not trying,” he said.
“Success is not just about making money; it is about making a difference in the lives of others.”
The seminar attracted a diverse group of participants, including youths with five Ordinary Level passes, Advanced Level students, college students and university graduates.
Many participants expressed appreciation to the organisers, saying the programme had equipped them with valuable skills and confidence to venture into entrepreneurship.
“This programme has opened my eyes to the world of entrepreneurship. I am now confident that I can start my own business and create jobs for others,” said college student Chinyama Talkmore.
Another participant, Sihlobo Ncube, described the experience as enriching.
“The facilitators were amazing, and the networking opportunities were invaluable. I am grateful for the experience,” he said.
Speaking on the sidelines of the seminar, African SDA church executive secretary Webster Manyika hailed the programme as a success and thanked the facilitators for their contribution.
“We are thrilled by the level of participation and enthusiasm shown by the youths. It is a testament to their eagerness to learn and grow,” said Manyika.
“We are particularly grateful to Elder Douglas Kwande and Bishop Joshua Maponga for sharing their expertise and experience.”
Manyika announced that the empowerment programme would become an annual event, with plans to expand its scope in future editions.
“This is now a yearly programme, and the next edition will be bigger and better. We are guided by the mantra of leaving no one and no place behind,” he said.
He added that the initiative was aligned with the country’s Education 5.0 philosophy, which emphasises innovation, industrialisation and entrepreneurship.
“The seminar was designed to empower youths to think outside the box and become job creators, not job seekers,” said Manyika. “We want to see a generation that drives innovation, creates opportunities and shapes the future.”
Participants also took part in interactive sessions, group discussions and networking activities, fostering a strong sense of community and shared purpose among the attendees.
