Epworth was filled with excitement as Teen Rescue Mission, in partnership with Boys Engage, hosted a lively fun run and soccer match aimed at empowering young boys in the community.
The event saw hundreds gather in support of the initiative, which sought to raise awareness of the challenges faced by the boy child.
The day kicked off with a marathon that drew over 300 boys from Epworth and Chitungwiza. Women from the community also joined in the run, showing strong support for the cause.
Blessing Chikuvanyanga, a 14-year-old participant, shared his appreciation “Today we are happy that we, the boys, have been remembered. We face many challenges at a young age that can lead us down the wrong path. This event has given us a chance to express ourselves.”
Tinashe Mazunza, 22, also expressed his gratitude: “This is a day we will always remember. As boys, we rarely get attention in our homes or communities. When we go through tough times, we often turn to drugs because we feel unheard. Today brought us hope and joy. Thank you, Teen Rescue Mission and Boys Engage.”
Benard Moyo, 23, echoed the same sentiments: “We’re happy today. This event showed us that we are special and helped us learn about the dangers of drug abuse. We are thankful to those who made it possible.”
Even community members like Grace Mupanze, a young mother, said, “I’m thankful for this program. Boys in Epworth, even as young as 10, are falling into drugs and crime. This event gives hope and direction, and I believe it will make a difference.”
Mr. Abraham Matuka, founder of Teen Rescue Mission, was proud of the turnout: “We are excited to see so many boys coming together. We’ve seen a rise in suicide and drug abuse among boys. This event created a space for them to speak and be heard. We thank the Chinese Embassy and Counsellor Mr. Zhang Yi, along with Dr. Gao Juhua and the Chinese Medical Team, for their strong support.”
Mr. Gillian Rusike of Boys Engage added, “This program came from the realisation that boys are being left behind. They often lack the resources and motivation that others have. We want to inspire boys to be confident, take care of themselves, and realise they are the future fathers of tomorrow.”
The event also featured a thrilling soccer match between the Teen Rescue Mission Trust Boys Team and Boys Engage Team, bringing even more energy to the day.
To wrap up the celebrations, the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services Brass and Instrumental Band performed, creating a festive mood as the community danced in celebration of the boy child.
Each participating boy received a bucket and toiletries package as a symbol of encouragement to maintain hygiene and self-respect. The Zimbabwe Youth Council, the Chinese Embassy in Harare, and the Chinese Medical Team also partnered in the event, offering free medical services to residents.
