Zaka Junior Councillors Make History at National Conference and Shine at Zimbabwe International Trade Fair

For the first time ever, five Junior Councillors from Zaka District (four girls and one boy) broke barriers and proudly represented their community at the prestigious National Junior Council’s Association Conference in Victoria Falls, from April 12-13, 2024. Thanks to the Youth Employment and Resilience Activity (YERA), funded by USAID, these young leaders seized a golden opportunity that had eluded their predecessors for years. The theme, “Intergenerational Solidarity: Promoting Youth’s Participation in Local Government,” set the stage for an extraordinary two days of learning, collaboration, and inspiration.

Held under the watchful eyes of Mayors, Town Clerks, Rural District Council CEOs, and Parliamentarians, the conference empowered Zaka’s youth to reimagine their role in local governance. They shared bold ideas and strategies to hold leaders accountable, proving that young people can lead civic action. For the first time, Zaka’s junior councillors crossed paths with their peers from across Zimbabwe, igniting a powerful exchange of ideas that would fuel their ambitions to be change makers.

Among them was Graca Mushonga, a junior councillor and member of the YERA’s Youth Advisory Board (YAB), who stood out from the pack. Out of 300 councillors who entered the conference’s cooking competition, Graca earned a coveted spot among the top six to showcase her skills at the 64th Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) from April 23-27, 2024. Representing Zaka on a national stage, Graca joined the First Lady’s Munhanga, Mugota Program, where she prepared exquisite traditional dishes and served international guests.

Graca Mushonga

Graca’s journey from Zaka to Victoria Falls and finally to ZITF was a testament to the limitless potential of young people when given the platform to shine. YERA’s unwavering support is unlocking Zaka’s youth leadership, driving their voices to the forefront of Zimbabwe’s development. Graca and her peers are leading the way for a new generation of fearless, empowered leaders.