When I joined Green Hut Trust as a volunteer, about a year ago, I was aspiring to gain valuable knowledge in environmental stewardship, contribute to civil engagement, get out of the house for a while to take a break from job-hunting and make new friends. During my civic engagement, I gained invaluable knowledge in environmental management, biodiversity conservation, including my most recent hands on professional course in urban food systems, green skills technologies. I am thrilled to share that I have successfully completed the Green Skills Course offered at Lupane State University under the Urban Futures Project being implemented by Green Hut Trust and its partners. This milestone represents a positive step in transforming my aspirations into reality. As an unemployed individual seeking opportunities, this program has equipped me not only with practical green skills but also with the knowledge to harness these abilities for income-generating initiatives.

Greenhut’s unwavering commitment to environmental management has deeply inspired me, fueling my passion for sustainability and excellence. During my tenure, I’ve contributed to impactful projects, initiated new programs, and facilitated MOUs with partner organizations. A major highlight was our recognition as the Sustainability Team of the Year for Green Project Management at Holiday Inn Harare. Collaborating with BirdLife, Climate Action, FAO, WFF, and Conservation Conversation has showcased the strength of teamwork in advancing our mission. Through diverse initiatives, Greenhut has positively influenced communities, workplaces, and academic institutions, especially in promoting sustainable agriculture and healthy food practices. Our partnerships, including with the World Food Forum, reflect our proactive drive for sustainable development. Witnessing the tangible change and awards we’ve earned affirms Greenhut’s lasting impact and motivates me to continue championing environmental stewardship.

In 2024, as a volunteer with Green Hut Trust, I co-led an urban greening initiative in Bulawayo funded by Bloomberg Philanthropies through the Youth Climate Action Fund, facilitated by His Worship Senator David Coltart. Our project assessed the impact of indigenous versus exotic tree species, mapped illegal dumping hotspots, and evaluated the health of urban trees—informing data-driven recommendations for a cleaner, greener city. I later represented my team at the African Forum on Urban Forests in Sandton, South Africa, engaging with policymakers and city leaders on integrating urban greening into governance, education, and community action. That same year, I was recognized as the Best Graduating Student in the Advanced Certificate in Green Technologies and Urban Food Systems (funded by Hivos and partners). These experiences strengthened my resolve to champion climate-resilient, inclusive, and sustainable urban development across Africa.

When I joined Green Hut, my goal was to gain practical experience, but the internship became a transformative journey that shaped my identity as an environmental steward. I gained hands-on experience in sustainable development, climate adaptation, environmental management, and biodiversity conservation. Programs such as the Inala Smart Agro Challenge, Wet Skills, and the Urban Futures Project helped me discover strengths in public speaking, coordination, and sustainable agriculture. Through Holistic Land and Livestock Management training, I learned the importance of regeneration and balance in environmental stewardship. Participating in the COP 15 Hackathon on Wetlands and the African Women Leaders in Agroecology Mentorship Initiative under PELUM Zimbabwe enhanced my leadership, confidence, and advocacy skills. I aspire to be an agriculture entrepreneur and advocate for sustainable living, applying the principles of agroecology to promote resilience and harmony between people and the planet.

In the heart of Bulawayo, Greenhut Trust became more than a volunteer space, it became my compass and community. What began as simple participation grew into leadership as I now serve as Chapter Leader for volunteers in the Bulawayo metropolitan province. Through this role, I’ve learned that leadership is not about authority but about inspiring others, creating ripples of change through collective action. Together, we organize cleanup campaigns, educate youths on sustainability, and transform neglected spaces into symbols of care and hope. Projects like the establishment of food forests taught me that when we plant a tree, we plant possibility nourishment, shade, and resilience. Greenhut has given me purpose, a network of changemakers, and the belief that small acts, rooted in compassion and science, can heal both land and community. The roots we grow today will sustain the world of tomorrow.

My journey as a volunteer at Greenhut Trust has been a remarkable ride. Being a volunteer there was one decision that ensured the strengthening of my advocacy journey. Having taken a gap year, figuring out what I wanted to do with my life, what career path to take, volunteering has ensured to bring me closer to what I’ve always wanted. Being around other climate activists who share the same passion as I has motivated me to read more content and stay updated on everything that has to do with our climate. I thought activism was merely about holding placards and marching to the streets demanding justice for our environment. But however it begins with us taking care of our environment so that the next person can also do the same. I’ve learnt a lot on sustainable farming, a concept I never really knew existed, I’ve learnt about recycling which in turn had sparked my interest in having my own eco friendly fashion brand which involves up-cycling. The volunteering program by Greenhut Trust is very essential to us as a country because it ensures that young people are equipped with necessary information so that one can also play a role after being included in decision making. I’ve experienced that, I bear testament to it, and it will always be one of the best decisions I made in 2024.