Today’s leaders are not waiting for tomorrow
By Mitchel Ngaavongwe Chimbga
The usually quiet halls of Gweru Memorial Library , American Space Corner were filled with laughter, conversation and the sound of young minds coming together on Friday 12 June 2026 as 35 students from Matinunura High School officially embarked on a journey to discover the leader within them.
The launch of the LeadAcy Gweru Programme, facilitated and coordinated by Mitchel Chimbga under the African Montessori Hub was not just the beginning of a leadership programme. It was the opening of a space where young people were recognised as capable thinkers, problem-solvers and changemakers whose voices matter today.
For many young people, leadership is often viewed as something reserved for adulthood,a title to be earned in the future. LeadAcy seeks to challenge that narrative by showing children and adolescents that leadership begins with self-awareness, responsibility, empathy and the courage to contribute positively to their communities.
The day began with interactive team-building activities that encouraged the students to connect with one another, build trust and appreciate the power of collaboration. These activities laid the foundation for a cohort that will spend the coming months learning together, supporting one another and growing into confident leaders.
Students were introduced to the African Montessori Hub and its philosophy which places the child at the centre of learning and believes in nurturing independence, curiosity, critical thinking and a sense of responsibility towards oneself and society.
A key highlight of the launch was an Introduction to Leadership session facilitated by Dexter Mwanamombe. The session challenged the young leaders to reflect on what leadership truly means, moving beyond positions and authority to understand leadership as service, integrity and the ability to influence positive change.
Perhaps the most personal moment of the day came when each participant wrote a letter to their future self. Within those pages were dreams, promises and aspirations, messages from young people who are beginning to imagine the kind of leaders they hope to become and the impact they wish to make in their communities.
The LeadAcy Gweru Programme represents more than a series of workshops. It is an investment in a generation of young Africans who are confident in their identity, equipped with essential leadership skills and ready to participate in shaping a better future.
As the first day came to a close, one t⁹hing was clear: the future of leadership is not waiting quietly in the distance. It was already sitting in the halls of Gweru Memorial Library, with pens in hand, writing letters to the people they are determined to become.
