Thousands Attend Donain Career Day as Elder Douglas Kwande Inspires Learners to Build Their Future

By Admire Chitsungo

Thousands of learners from across Mhondoro-Ngezi district converged at Donain Secondary School on Friday for a well-organised Career Guidance Day aimed at equipping young people with knowledge and inspiration to make informed career choices.

 

Held under the theme “My Career, My Priority, My Future,” the event was hosted by the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare in conjunction with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education. The career expo brought together a wide range of companies, tertiary institutions, Government departments and organisations that exhibited career opportunities and provided guidance to learners.

 

The highlight of the day was an inspiring keynote address by guest of honour, successful businessman and founder of DCK Group of Companies, as well as a partner in ministry at the African Seventh-day Adventist Church, Elder Douglas Kwande.

 

Drawing from his own life story, Elder Kwande narrated his remarkable journey from humble beginnings as a classroom teacher to becoming one of the country’s successful entrepreneurs, emphasizing that determination, discipline and hard work remain the foundation of success.

 

“The future isn’t something we wait for; it’s something we build. Every assignment we complete, every book we read and every presentation we give is part of building the future we imagine,” he told the attentive audience.

 

“Whether you want to become a scientist, a teacher, a designer or even start your own business, remember this: your future is in your hands. There will be failures and there will be doubts, but those are stepping stones. This is the time to take risks, explore your passions and believe that you can create a life you are proud of.”

 

He challenged learners to pursue significance rather than merely chasing success.

 

“The future is not some distant land. It is being shaped right now by the hours we invest, the risks we take and the mindset we carry. Let us measure our achievements not only by numbers but by the positive impact we leave on others. Your future is not written by fate; it is written by focus.”

 

Encouraging the learners to become job creators rather than job seekers, Elder Kwande urged them to embrace innovation, continuous learning and resilience.

 

“Own your journey. Be bold in your decisions. Keep learning and keep moving. Most importantly, believe in your ability to create employment and build a legacy that matters.

 

“Your career starts with curiosity. Your priority sets the direction. Your future is written by your effort. Make your career a mission, not just a plan. Make it your priority, and trust that the future you are working for is worth every step,” he said to thunderous applause.

 

In a gesture that stunned the gathering, Elder Kwande immediately pledged to construct a perimeter fence for Donain Secondary School, build an Advanced Level classroom block to enable A-Level classes to commence in January, and construct boys’ and girls’ hostels at the school after learning of the long distances travelled by learners, particularly girls who are vulnerable to abuse while walking to school.

 

The announcement sparked prolonged applause and jubilation from learners, parents and community members.

 

Donain Secondary School Head Mrs Spiwe Mandizha expressed profound gratitude to Elder Douglas Kwande for his generosity and unwavering commitment to education.

 

“We are deeply grateful for Elder Kwande’s support and his vision for transforming our school. His contributions will not only benefit Donain Secondary School but will uplift the entire community by improving access to quality education,” she said.

 

Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare official Mr Nicholas Chamanja said the overwhelming success of the career day was made possible through the strong relationships built with schools, Government departments and partner organisations.

 

“I would like to thank all the organisations that participated in empowering our learners. Special appreciation goes to Elder Douglas Kwande for delivering such an electrifying and motivational lecture that has inspired our young people to dream bigger and work harder towards their aspirations,” he said.

 

National Association of Secondary Heads (NASH) Mhondoro-Ngezi District Chairperson Mrs Masceline Zvinavashe commended the organisers for creating an important platform that exposed learners to diverse career opportunities.

 

“Career guidance is critical in helping learners make informed decisions about their future. Today’s event has broadened their horizons and inspired them to pursue careers that match their talents and ambitions,” she said.

 

One of the learners, Munashe Phiri of Brompton Secondary School, described the event as life-changing.

 

“I am very happy with the career guidance we received today. It has helped us understand the many opportunities available and encouraged us to make good choices that will shape our future,” he said.