2024: Hope springs eternal

ZIMBABWE will tomorrow celebrate a new year. The Sunday Mail’s TANYARADZWA RUSIKE spoke to some Zimbabweans about their plans and expectations for the new year.

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Professor Paul Mapfumo (University of Zimbabwe vice chancellor)

The University of Zimbabwe wishes the nation a peaceful, productive and healthy 2024, as we inclusively march towards prosperity through an internally contracted capability for industrialisation and modernisation inspired by our Vision 2030.

In 2024, the University of Zimbabwe seeks to consolidate its gains in harnessing science, technology and innovation, and advancing the frontiers of knowledge and human capital skills that are necessary for the realisation of Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030.

Mr Tawanda Gusha (Airports Company of Zimbabwe chief executive officer)

As 2023 draws to a close and we embark on 2024, we do so with pride and anticipation.

While some may view it as merely a change in dates, the start of a new year provides an opportunity to reflect on the accomplishments and challenges of the previous year, and establish a new approach.

Setting new goals and reviewing them by year-end allows us to strategise and draw from past experiences to navigate potential obstacles. I am proud and grateful for the accomplishments I have achieved personally and as ACZ this year. None of this would have been possible without the support of those around me.

I am inspired by the collective drive of our nation, particularly our citizens, to make Zimbabwe great.

Dr Faith Nyamukapa (KinderCare Zimbabwe and Imani Foundation executive director)

God’s grace has allowed me to finish strong in 2023. Against all odds, we survived. The year 2024 is not for the faint-hearted. It will require focus, standing on your values and what you believe in — persistence, commitment and integrity.

I look forward to growth, personally and business-wise, and drawing more attention to the work that I do as a difference maker serving God, the nation and people in different communities and beyond our borders.

Vickie Mlilo-Maponga (Television personality and mental health advocate)

The start of a new year often brings a sense of hope, renewal and new beginnings for many. But if you want to see change in your life, you have to change something about your life. Change comes through change. Simply because we are starting a new year does not guarantee that everything in your life will automatically change.

Nothing changes on its own unless you change something. If you do not change, this may lead to mental health issues.

Taking care of your mental health should be a continuous effort.

We need to change the narrative on mental health and foster a society where mental health is valued and pursued with the same vigour as physical health.

Nomalanga Chipare (Junior Chamber International Zimbabwe president 2024)

Reflecting on the past year, we welcome the new one with enthusiasm and remain committed to developing leaders for a changing world.

As the incoming 2024 JCI Zimbabwe president, our primary aim is to provide leadership development opportunities to young leaders through our 2024 theme “#LEAP — Learn, Execute, Accelerate with Perseverance”.

This theme emphasises our dedication to learning from our experiences and acquiring knowledge to transform our plans into tangible results. To achieve this, we must take calculated risks and demonstrate the courage to act and make a difference. Each initiative we undertake has the potential to make a genuine impact and set new benchmarks for excellence.

With this momentum, we can drive meaningful progress and bring about positive transformation in Zimbabwe and beyond.

Mr Francis Mufambi (Zimbabwe Young Graduates and Youth Development Forum director for information and publicity)

As we look ahead to 2024, I hope it brings abundant opportunities for growth, learning and success for everyone.

May this year be filled with new experiences, meaningful connections and progress towards your personal and professional goals.

Remember to stay resilient, optimistic and open to new possibilities. Wishing you all a productive and fulfilling year ahead. Our wish remains to continue collaborating with the Second Republic in making sure no graduate or young person is left behind, in line with the timeless mantra of the President.

Dr Patricia Gonde (Lusitania Primary School acting head)

As we usher in a new year, we celebrate the enduring power of education to shape minds, inspire hearts and transform lives.

Education is the cornerstone of progress, offering the promise of a brighter future for individuals and societies alike.

It is a catalyst for change, igniting curiosity, nurturing potential and fostering the skills necessary to navigate an increasingly complex world.

As we embrace the dawn of a new year, let us acknowledge the tireless dedication of educators, the unwavering support of families and the resilience of learners who embody the spirit of learning.

Together, let us look to the future with hope and determination, recognising the profound impact of education on our collective journey.

Watsunga Makoni (Harare-based author)

The beginning of a new year usually marks a new season. Wishing you an exciting new season. May God remember your sacrifices.

I will also be launching my next book in the first quarter of 2023, which I believe will inspire many.