Before diving into part two, check out part one of this blog series for the full story.

The gap year internship was a transformational experience for the three young girls, with many lessons they will carry forward. 

Yeukai attributes much of her personal growth to her involvement in the Girl Mentorship Program at Makomborero. She emphasizes the power of communication and the value of appreciating diversity, skills she developed through interactions with fellow students.

Nicolle’s internship experience taught her lessons in building respectful relationships, having fun at work, and effectively managing her time. She mentions that one of the skills she specifically appreciated from the internship is maintaining confidentiality and respecting others’ privacy.

“It has been a big help in college to remember that if it’s not my story, it’s not mine to tell,” says Nicolle.

Nyasha’s curiosity led her to become a gap year intern at Makomborero, where she gained insights into the behind-the-scenes efforts that ‘make everything flow.’ She learned to appreciate the significance of every contribution, no matter how small, and how they impact an organization’s success.

‘For someone with a poor memory, I learned how to stay on top of my plans by using my diary to plan my days.’ Nyasha

Since completing their internship programs, the three girls have now started on their new academic journeys. 

Yeukai, on the left, now studying Biomedical Science at the University of Zimbabwe, benefits from a Makomborero University Grant, which covers her tuition fees. She lives within the Makomborero University Residence and can walk to and from campus, reducing her daily cost. Although challenges come along the way, Yeukai embraces her daily routine and is committed to excelling in her studies and social life. 

Nicolle, at the center, on a Mastercard Scholarship, is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering at the African Leadership University in Kigali, Rwanda.  She appreciates the supportive environment and the friendships she has created on campus. Despite facing gender biases in the tech industry, she remains steadfast in her pursuit of excellence.

Nyasha, on the left, is in her first year at Harvard University. She is an Undeclared STEM Major since she has yet to decide what exactly she would like to pursue. While at Harvard University, Nyasha sometimes struggles with cultural differences and living abroad as a young Zimbabwean woman. However, she also embraces every moment, cherishing time spent with friends, dedicating herself to her studies, and participating in choir practice.

As they navigate their paths, Yeukai, Nicolle, and Nyasha remain committed to empowering others and giving back to their communities. 

Yeukai aspires to become a surgeon, ready to make a difference in her community. Nicolle dreams of becoming a mental health nurse and using her software engineering skills to enhance patient care. 

“I hope to be in a better position to provide for my family and give back to the community.” Nicolle

Nyasha would like to become a neurosurgeon. She sees a future where she continues to embrace diversity and create meaningful connections with others.

As the Jacaranda flowers bloom and fade, the stories of these three young women, Yeukia, Nicolle, and Nyasha, remind us that every dream is within reach with perseverance and support. Despite the challenges, the three young women’s journey with Makomborero Zimbabwe has been a testament to the organization’s unwavering commitment to helping low-income families access A-level education, further their studies, and see lives and families changed forever.