CHITUNGWIZA- TWENTY-TWO youths have graduated with different life skills programmes as part of avoiding the trap of drug and substance abuse.
The young people who graduated in Hotel and Catering, Baking, Dressmaking, Hairdressing, Welding, Motor mechanic, and Beauty Therapy, among other programmes have seen transformation.
They graduated from Chitungwiza based Teen Rescue Mission (TRM) Centre situated in Seke.
TRM’s historic first graduation ceremony marked a milestone in empowering young people.
In a landmark event that underscores its commitment to youth empowerment, Teen Rescue Mission (TRM) hosted its inaugural graduation ceremony at its youth centre in Seke.
The ceremony marked a significant milestone for the youths who successfully completed TRM’s comprehensive life skills program, designed to equip them with the tools necessary to thrive in an ever-changing world.
The event was a poignant celebration of transformation, as graduates took to the stage to share their personal stories of struggle and triumph.
Many spoke of their journeys from uncertainty and vulnerability to confidence and purpose, crediting TRM’s supportive environment and mentorship for their growth.
Melissa Mugombe, who was studying Hotel and Catering, feels empowered.
“I am happy as a girl child, we have been supported.
“This helps to fight early marriages, drugs, and because of TRM, we have been saved.
“I am not able to determine my future as well as my parents, who now depend on me.
“I was doing hotel and catering, and I can start my own projects.”
Another student, Tinashe Mawodzwa, who graduated in mechanics said.
“I fought a hard fight.
“I was into drugs, and I spent most of my time.
“I was rescued for sure, I came here ndisina kana matama, ndanga ndaparara.
“Nditori makanika izvezvi, and I want to thank Mr Abraham Matuka for saving my life,” he said.
Parents and guardians in attendance were visibly moved, some overcome with emotion, as they testified to the profound impact TRM has had on their children’s lives.
“Seeing my child graduate from this programme is a dream come true.
“TRM has given them a second chance at life, and we’re eternally grateful,” said one of the parents,” Mrs Mawodzwa.
The graduation ceremony not only marked a significant achievement for the youths but also highlighted TRM’s dedication to empowering the next generation of leaders.
Through its life skills programme, TRM provides young people with critical skills in areas such as entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and conflict resolution, setting them up for success in their future endeavors.
“We are incredibly proud of our graduates and the progress they have made,” said Abraham Matuka, Director of Teen Rescue Mission.
“This milestone is a testament to the hard work and resilience of our youths, and we are honored to have played a part in their journey,” he added.
Guest of honour, Dionne Chivandire, also hailed TRM for helping transform the lives of youths.
“We have partnered with Teen Rescue Mission, we are empowering the youths and taking them out of drugs.
“This is a call for everyone to partner, to take the youths out of drugs, and Mr Abraham Matuka is doing an amazing job.”
As TRM continues to make a positive impact in the lives of young people, this graduation ceremony serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of investing in the next generation.
With its commitment to empowering youth with valuable skills and support, TRM is shaping the future leaders of tomorrow.
TRM has reached over 300 young people through direct mentorship, life skills training, and psychosocial support in Harare & Chitungwiza.
It has also provided counselling and mental health support to over 1,500 teens grappling with abuse, trauma, and addiction;
The organisation also launched and sustained the powerful “I Choose to Wait” campaign, contributing significantly to teen pregnancy and HIV prevention outcomes.
