Harare’s brightest young talents took centre stage in the 10th edition of a poetry competition organised by Daughters Destined for Purpose (DD4P), held at the Harare City Library on Saturday.
The event, rich with creative energy, showcased local students in the 13 to 15 and 16 to 19-year-old categories.
With the theme, My Fears, the competition highlighted the urgent need to address gender-based violence, especially in the digital space, where adolescent girls face the increasing risk of online harm.
Adding a unique flair to the day was a vibrant orange-dressed modelling contest, which preceded the main event.
Poetic toasts from the top three winners filled the atmosphere with emotion, leaving a lasting impact.
Anna Matsika, the guest of honour, commended DD4P for its exceptional work in empowering youth through gender-responsive education.
Keep Reading
- Tile entrepreneur looks to tap into construction boom
- Tile entrepreneur looks to tap into construction boom
- Chitungwiza poetry convergence inspires poets
- Manyika off to Poetry Africa
She stressed the importance of equipping both girls and boys with the tools to escape harmful cycles of abuse.
Munyaradzi Nhemachena from Childline Zimbabwe urged children and parents to report all forms of abuse through toll-free helpline 116.
In a speech read on her behalf DD4P’s Beverly Abrahams highlighted the role of poetry and literature as powerful tools for teaching and counselling.
She called for swift action to end gender-based violence and advocated for women’s active participation in social and economic dialogues.
The 2025 DD4P Poetry Competition celebrated the remarkable talents of the winners, whose works focused on empowerment and resilience.
In the 13 to 15-year-old category, Leanne Masuku from Irene Christian College (Harare) took first place, followed by Ryan Gandashanga from Milestone College (Harare) in second place and Ayanda Chindabata from Midlands Christian College (Gweru) in third place. Ruvarashe Peisa from Hillbright Science College (Harare) was placed fourth. At the same time, Nokutenda Maulani from Roosevelt High School (Harare) came fifth and Munashe Machinga from Gateway High School (Harare) was sixth.
In the 16 to 19-year-old category, Kudakwashe Jonga from Milestone College (Rusape) won first place, with Cynthia Nyamushamba from First Choice Private School (Harare) coming in second and Tanaka Befura from Milestone College (Rusape) in third position. Muziwoxolo Ncube from Milestone College (Rusape) came fourth, while Tamika Chihobvu from Irene Christian College (Harare) and Kelly Banket from Kutama Day High School (Zvimba) were placed fifth and sixth, respectively.
DD4P paid tribute to Earthworks, which sponsored the 2025 Poetry Competition.
For over a decade, Earthworks has been instrumental in nurturing young people, providing a platform for aspiring writers to share their creativity and contribute to society.
Founded by Hopolang Phororo, a survivor of abuse, DD4P remains dedicated to addressing child abuse — especially gender-based violence —
through empowerment initiatives. Through programmes such as the annual poetry competition, the organisation fosters critical conversations about the challenges young people face, working towards a future where every child can thrive free from fear and inequality.