In applying for and maintaining their scholarships, the CLUBHOUSE Scholars are required to write letters and essays focusing on the hopes, challenges, and plans for their community. Here are a few of them from the class of 2017!
Blessing Muchafa is an alumnus of the CLUBHOUSE Ambassadors program, joining while in sixth grade at Rujeko Primary school. Distinguishing himself as a remarkable writer and elite athlete while in school, Blessing would go on to obtain his A-Levels at St. Dominic’s High School in Mutare, excelling in his chosen subjects Mathematics (B), Biology (B), and Chemistry (A.) He has been working as an assistant program coordinator with CLUBHOUSE International since the beginning of 2024.
He awaits to start his University studies in Pharmacy
Marvel Wadzanai Mashingaidze is a resilient and determined woman who rose above challenging circumstances growing up in Chikanga to achieve great academic success. She completed her secondary education at Mutare Girls High School, where she laid a strong foundation for her future. Marvel went on to pursue her Bachelor’s Degree in Insurance and Risk Management with honors at Midlands State University.
Driven by her ambition for continuous learning, she pursued a Master of Commerce in Finance at the Great Zimbabwe University, where she honed her expertise in financial management and analysis. Currently, Marvel’s dedication and expertise are utilized at Manicaland State University of Applied Sciences, where she works in the Risk Management Office. Through her work, she helps the institution navigate and mitigate potential risks, ensuring a secure financial foundation for the university’s future. Marvel’s journey is a testament to her strength, resilience, and drive for excellence.
Mom to three adventurous kids. Born in Kwekwe and attended primary education in Zimbabwe. She is very passionate about building relationships with people and organizational excellence. I look forward to bringing my administrative expertise to continue building engagement within CLUBHOUSE International
Fernando Anleu, is originally from the vibrant city of Guatemala City, Guatemala. He possesses an impressive educational background, having earned dual Bachelor’s degrees. The first degree in Allied Health Sciences was obtained from Grand Valley State University, while the second in Nuclear Medicine Technology was awarded by Ferris State University.
Currently, Fernando’s professional pursuits find him at BAMF Health, a renowned theranostics medical facility. In this esteemed setting, he engages in groundbreaking cancer research, utilizing cutting-edge imaging technologies and administering advanced treatments. Furthermore, Fernando holds the prestigious position of Student Liaison Chair for the Central Chapter of the Society of Nuclear Medicine.
Fernando’s lifelong fascination with human physiology has been the driving force behind his choice of career in Nuclear Medicine. His dedication to advancing medical knowledge and providing exceptional patient care shines through in all his endeavors.
Robert Mutyasira is a highly skilled entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience in the motor industry, transport, fuel logistics, and real estate. He holds a Bachelor of Science and Master’s in Development Studies from Zimbabwe Open University. Robert has worked with young people from all walks of life, motivating them to tackle life issues with knowledge and precision.
In 2018, he received the International Coaching and Mentoring Foundation award in recognition of his efforts in building the next generation. Robert is a well-known life coach in many schools across the country, leaving a positive impact on the youth with his invaluable life lessons. His expertise in dealing with young people and guiding them to become influential members of society will undoubtedly add value to CLUBHOUSE.
Takunda Mavima was born in Zimbabwe but moved to the United States before his first birthday. He grew up in Grand Rapids with very limited opportunities to visit Zimbabwe. In an effort to connect his life in the U.S. with his Zimbabwean roots, Takunda has joined our board to enhance our social outreach and communication. Takunda is a Freelance Photographer/Videographer, and his hobbies include playing tennis and exploring the latest advancements in consumer technology.
Colleen was born and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She attended Northview High School, graduating in 2009. She has attended both Grand Rapids Community College and Grand Valley State University, having attained both an Associate and Bachelor degree through the years.
She is currently a Registered Nurse, working with cancer patients who receive stem cell transplants. Colleen has always had a passion for caring for others, whether they be children, adults, or furry friends. She enjoys traveling, hoping one day to work as a Missionary Nurse in impoverished nations.
She has volunteered with other organizations such as Supper House, West Michigan Refugee Center, Hispanic Center of West Michigan, Spectrum Health’s Renucci House, and GVSU’s Annual Community Health Fair. She has been a supporter of CLUBHOUSE International since its inception. She resides in Grand Rapids with her loving boyfriend, Matt, and two cats.
Since 2021, Vimbainashe Meda has been the Executive Director of Musasa Project, the leading non-profit in Zimbabwe addressing gender-based violence.
She has more than a decade of experience in the non-profit sector, and earned a Bachelor’s of Law from the University of Cape Town in South Africa and a Master’s degree in Women’s Law from the University of Zimbabwe. She has an in-depth knowledge of laws and policies related to GBV in Zimbabwe, including the Domestic Violence Act, marriage laws and the Constitution and part of her work involved training on laws and policies for women and girls in rural communities.
Previously, Vimbainashe worked for a regional HIV/AIDS information service, SAFAIDS, focusing on child-friendly information production and dissemination and child rights education. She is a member of the Zimbabwe Gender Commission Thematic working group on gender, Socio-cultural and religious issues.
Zvikomborero Sithole is a humble gentleman who grew up in the dusty streets of Dangamvura, Mutare. He attended Chancellor Primary School, Marange High School, and later Hartzell High for his A-levels. He pursued his education at Midlands State University, where he studied Insurance and Risk Management. He went further to attain a Master’s in Business Administration and Management from the University of Zimbabwe.
He holds several professional certifications and is currently a member of the Insurance Institute of Zimbabwe and the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII). Currently, he works at CBZ Bank in Insurance Administration and is a national board member of CLUBHOUSE International.
Boitshoko is a highly skilled individual with extensive experience in microbiology and public policy. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, a Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy, and a recent Master’s degree in Public Policy, all from Michigan State University. Boitshoko has worked as a research assistant, specializing in groundbreaking work in drug discovery and curriculum design. He has also collaborated with various organizations to design policy frameworks, carry out assessments, and standardize quality assurance.
Currently, Boitshoko serves as a Lead Consultant at Illustrative Visions in Botswana. In this role, he develops policy-based products that align with the client’s awareness or advocacy goals. These products include strategic frameworks, policy tools, and instruments, and he assesses the resilience of the client’s existing frameworks, tools, and policy infrastructure.
Nyasha Adore Matavire is a Co-Founder and Executive Director of CLUBHOUSE International. He is also the current executive director of CLUBHOUSE in Zimbabwe. Raised in Harare’s Kuwadzana, a high-density suburb, he completed his Primary education before enrolling for High School at St. Johns Mission High School in Chikwaka. Later, he obtained a BCom Degree in Risk Management and Insurance.
Shingi Mavima (PhD) is an Assistant Professor of History at the University of Toledo. He is the co-founder and executive director of CLUBHOUSE International. His scholarship focuses on contemporary Southern African history with a focus on the colonial and postcolonial era.
Away from academia and philanthropy, Shingi Mavima has published two novels, Pashena and The Leak, as well as two poetry anthologies, Homeward Bound and Mirage of Days Old. He has also released several audio poems and songs, available on all major streaming platforms.
