Paying It Forward: The Gift of Giving

Have you ever wondered how you can make a difference? 

Sometimes our acts of kindness can be more meaningful than we realise. One act of kindness can transfer to others like the ripple effect of a stone skipping on water. Sometimes, they only become clear with time. 

An example of making a difference is the generosity and kindness of one man. 

Once upon a time there was a school teacher who was passionate about education and making a difference to children. He strongly believed that financial challenges should not hold a child back from getting an education.

He chose to work at a rural school in Zimbabwe, in an impoverished area, where children and families were in great need. He saw other teachers come and go, as they found the hardships too heavy to bear. Yet, he chose to stay...

He did the best he could to help his students by providing a steady, consistent and positive presence. He was dedicated. He was tenacious. He showed up, he supported and he taught, believing he could make a difference.

He saw students hungry for education, hungry for a better and brighter future. He wanted to find ways to help them expand their possibilities in life. 

Through his perseverance, he found businesses who would sponsor some students to finish their schooling. He gratefully received much needed gifts for his students such as stationery, school uniforms, sports equipment and school fees. He rejoiced when an international organisation helped by improving the conditions with school furniture and classrooms. 

Without all this, many may not have had the opportunity to complete their schooling and go on to reach their potential. Some of these students went on to study engineering, pharmacy, nursing, agriculture, teaching and business.

This was all made possible by a kind and dedicated teacher, who believed that “no child should be put down by poverty”. This teacher witnessed the fruits of his labour and how his students blossomed when given an opportunity. He went on to create a non-profit and, with a team of faithful volunteers, continues to make a positive impact to thousands of children in schools in rural Zimbabwe.

The gift of giving continues. Students he has helped have, in turn, given back with their time, support and dedication to help more children have a better education and brighter future.

Collin Nyabadza is his name. He continues with his gift of giving, working tirelessly to help those less fortunate. Dedicating the little free time he has to making a monumental difference to so many children.

Never underestimate the positive impact you can have on one individual and how that one individual could impact many more. It is the ripple effect of giving.

To learn more about the wonderful work that Collin and his team have done, please visit www.childrensvoicezimbabwe.org.