Harare Youth Shine at DD4P’s 10th Annual Poetry Competition

Harare’s young talents took centre stage at the 10th edition of the Daughters Destined for Purpose (DD4P) Poetry Competition, held at the Harare City Library on Saturday. The event showcased local students in the 13 to 15 and 16 to 19-year-old categories, highlighting creativity, expression, and social awareness.

The competition, themed “My Fears,” focused on the urgent need to address gender-based violence, particularly in digital spaces where adolescent girls face rising risks of online harm. The event began with a lively orange-themed modelling contest, adding an energetic prelude to the main performances.

Poetic performances from the top three winners captivated the audience, leaving a lasting impression. Anna Matsika, the guest of honour, commended DD4P for its work in empowering youth through gender-responsive education, stressing the importance of equipping both girls and boys with the tools to break cycles of abuse. Munyaradzi Nhemachena from Childline Zimbabwe reminded attendees to report abuse via the toll-free helpline 116.

In a statement read on her behalf, DD4P’s Beverly Abrahams emphasized the power of poetry and literature as tools for teaching and counselling. She called for swift action to end gender-based violence and encouraged women’s active participation in social and economic dialogue.

The 2025 competition celebrated the talent and resilience of its winners. 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, and Ayanda Chindabata from Midlands Christian College (Gweru) in third. Ruvarashe Peisa from Hillbright Science College (Harare) placed fourth, 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. Cynthia Nyamushamba from First Choice Private School (Harare) placed second, and Tanaka Befura from Milestone College (Rusape) came third. Muziwoxolo Ncube from Milestone College (Rusape) placed fourth, while Tamika Chihobvu from Irene Christian College (Harare) and Kelly Banket from Kutama Day High School (Zvimba) placed fifth and sixth, respectively.

The 2025 Poetry Competition was sponsored by Earthworks, a long-term supporter of youth empowerment and creative expression. For over a decade, Earthworks has provided platforms for young people to share their voices and contribute to society.

Founded by abuse survivor Hopolang Phororo, DD4P continues to address child abuse, particularly gender-based violence, through initiatives like the annual poetry competition. The organisation aims to foster critical conversations about challenges faced by young people and create a future where every child can thrive free from fear and inequality.