A YOUNG tourism entrepreneur from Zimunya is proving that innovation, heritage conservation and sustainable tourism can transform communities after scooping a prestigious Young Achievers Award at the Zimbabweans in the Diaspora Organisation (ZIDO) Awards held in Johannesburg, South Africa recently.
Mr Leon Chaparuka, founder of the Chemakuti Eastville Tourism Project, was recognised at the ZIDO Awards Gala and Dinner in South Africa as one of Zimbabwe’s outstanding young achievers making a meaningful impact through tourism and community development.
The award adds another feather to the cap of the youthful tourism innovator whose project has already attracted continental recognition.
Earlier, the Chemakuti Eastville Tourism Project was selected among the top five youth-led ecotourism initiatives in Africa, placing Zimunya and Manicaland firmly on the map as emerging centres of sustainable tourism innovation.
Situated in the shadow of the picturesque Chemakuti Mountain in Zimunya, the project promotes environmental conservation, biodiversity restoration, climate action and community-based tourism while creating opportunities for local people, particularly young people.
Speaking after receiving the award, an elated Mr Chaparuka, said the recognition was a testament to the collective efforts of his community, mentors and fellow young people who continue to believe in the transformative power of tourism.
“I am deeply honoured and humbled to receive this award. This recognition is, not just about me, but about the people of Zimunya, our community partners and the young people who are working tirelessly to show that tourism can be a vehicle for sustainable development,” he said.
“The guidance and mentorship I continue to receive have been invaluable. They have helped me understand that our heritage, environment and culture are assets that can create opportunities for future generations if managed sustainably. This award inspires me to work even harder and to continue promoting Zimbabwe’s tourism potential on regional and international platforms.”
Mr Chaparuka paid tribute to his mentor, tourism expert and sustainability advocate, Dr Nyasha Nyakunu, whose guidance has been instrumental in shaping the project’s growth and vision.
Dr Nyakunu has been mentoring the young team through youth tourism initiatives and sustainability programmes.
Dr Nyakunu said empowering young people with entrepreneurial and sustainability skills is critical for the future of Zimbabwe’s tourism sector.
“Young people must be equipped with entrepreneurial skills that enable them to identify opportunities within their own communities. Tourism is not only about attracting visitors; it is about creating livelihoods, preserving heritage, protecting the environment and building resilient local economies.”
Meanwhile, Zimbabweans in the Diaspora Organisation chairperson, Mr Blessed Kapesa, hailed the growing influence of young Zimbabweans who are making a difference both at home and abroad.
“The Young Achievers Award seeks to celebrate excellence, innovation and leadership among young Zimbabweans. Leon’s achievement demonstrates the immense potential that exists within our youth and the importance of supporting initiatives that contribute to sustainable development and national growth,” said Mr Kapesa.
For the people of Zimunya, Mr Chaparuka’s latest accolade is more than a personal achievement. It is a powerful reminder that local heritage, when combined with innovation, mentorship and community participation, can create opportunities that resonate far beyond village boundaries.
As Zimbabwe seeks to position itself as a leading sustainable tourism destination in Africa, stories such as that of the Chemakuti Eastville Tourism Project offer a glimpse into a future where young people are not merely beneficiaries of development but architects of it.-herald
Zimunya tourism prodigy wins Diaspora honour
