Westwood College Learners Shine in Belated Africa Day Celebration

Westwood College came alive with colour, rhythm and culture this past Friday as learners gathered to celebrate a belated Africa Day, transforming the school grounds into a vibrant showcase of the continent’s diversity. The event, filled with music, dance, poetry, drama and art, was a proud affirmation of African identity and heritage.

Celebrated annually on May 25, Africa Day commemorates the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) in 1963, now the African Union (AU). At Westwood College, however, the occasion extended beyond commemoration — it was a creative expression of unity and cultural pride.

Students proudly represented countries such as Botswana, Nigeria, Congo, Eswatini, Zambia and South Africa, donning traditional attire and delivering performances that reflected the rich tapestry of African music and tradition. The programme featured lively modelling segments, expressive poetry, high-energy dances and captivating drama pieces.

Renowned Zimbabwean guitarist and music producer Mono Mukundu graced the occasion as guest of honour. Women’s rights activist Alice Tagwira and hormone wellness coach Tate Makayi also attended, alongside junior Members of Parliament, school staff, parents and guardians.

Principal James Masangomayi underscored the significance of the event, saying the annual celebration aims to nurture confidence and cultural pride among students. “The concept is designed to impress on the students that they should be proud to be Africans and that they have everything it takes should they find themselves in any country in Africa,” he said.

Founded in 2001 and located in Westwood near Kambuzuma, the college has 720 learners and offers both local and Cambridge curricula. It has earned a strong academic and sporting reputation, with Masangomayi affirming that Westwood is among the best-performing schools in the Glen View and Mufakose district.

A standout moment of the day was a pencil drawing exhibition by Form 3 student Amanda Ringoziwa, whose piece African Living offered a visual narrative of rural life. Amanda, already a two-time award winner, dreams of becoming a renowned artist and draws inspiration from figures like Admire Kamuzengerere and Detroit Fine Arts.

Her art teacher, Owen Katiyo, praised her gift and called for assistance in equipping the school’s art club. “We have many talented artists and need materials like drawing instruments, bond and manila paper. We call on sponsors to help nurture these young talents,” he appealed.

In his address, Mukundu reflected on how African history and identity were once overlooked in the school system. “During my time, we learnt more about Julius Caesar and Alexander the Great than our own people,” he said, encouraging learners to embrace their roots.

Makayi used her platform to speak on storytelling, self-identity and healthy living as vital aspects of African culture, particularly for the younger generation navigating life’s transitions.

The school also announced ambitious development plans, including the construction of an eight-classroom block with an enhanced computer lab. Masangomayi also appealed for donations of chemicals and lab equipment to support aspiring scientists, engineers, and medical professionals among the students.

The festivities concluded with the Miss Malaika 2025 modelling contest, where junior and senior students dazzled on the catwalk, bringing glamour to the cultural extravaganza and celebrating beauty in African heritage.

Westwood College’s celebration served as a vivid reminder of Africa’s cultural wealth and the power of education in preserving and promoting it — a lesson echoed in every performance, painting and poem shared that day.