By Michael Gwarisa
In an era fraught with job uncertainty, driven by advances in artificial intelligence and a contracting employment market, the Avenues Clinic in Harare recently took an inspiring step to empower its young men.
On June 14, more than 100 male students from Harare High School, Allan Wilson, Mufakose High School, and others attended a dynamic careers exhibition hosted by the clinic. The event celebrated Father’s Day and Men’s Mental Health Month, offering teens insights into science and business pathways they might not have considered before.
Located in The Avenues suburb, the clinic attracted notable speakers eager to broaden youth perspectives. Among them was Dr Tapiwanashe Maenzanise Kusotera, a physician who urged boys to dream beyond stereotypes:
Your background doesn’t define you … challenge the stereotypes in whatever form they exist,” he told the audience. He cautioned against fixating on specific careers like medicine, advising students to maintain a broad view: “If it’s not working in Zimbabwe, try somewhere else … our country is currently distorted because the successful people we have in mind aren’t necessarily the best example.”
Dr Kusotera emphasized relentless work ethic, not just ambition, as the key to success: “Work hard for yourself … I know a mechanic who makes more money than doctors. There’s a tailor in Aberdeen doing really well.” His message resonated: success isn’t tied to a singular field, but to dedication and skill.
Another esteemed speaker, Dr B. V. Nyamapfene, a neuro‑surgeon honored by the clinic earlier this year staging16.atomistic.co.zw/, shared personal reflections:
“One of the fundamentals that has helped me … is the motivation of parents. … When you see that your parents are trying … it gives you that sort of drive of wanting to do well.”
Dr Nyamapfene also revealed how adversity became fuel:
“I’m a little bit different in that I’m inspired by negativity. … If you say no, the power of a no is the best motivation for me.”
He stressed passion, diligence, and discipline as the true differentiators in an era where most people have similar cognitive ability:
“We have almost the basic IQ on average. But what makes the difference is how disciplined we are and how much effort and passion we show.”
Together, the speakers painted a more vivid and versatile picture of success, one not limited by geography, traditional fields, or socioeconomic background. The careers expo also featured interactive stands representing universities, tech firms, and business incubators, allowing pupils to engage directly with STEM and entrepreneurial role models.
