Online Reporter
Youth Interactive Writer
In a commendable initiative, Rejoice Chauke (pictured), a rising rural model, has pledged to use her influence to combat the alarming rate of school drop-outs in Mwenezi, Masvingo Province.
As a learner at Guiding Star Secondary School, Chauke was deeply troubled by the growing number of students leaving school prematurely.
At just 17 years old, Chauke expressed her concerns shortly after being crowned Miss Guiding Star during a fiercely contested pageant held at her school.
“I may be a rural model, but I have high expectations in life. As a rural kid, I have witnessed many girls dropping out of school, either to work on farms in South Africa or in sugarcane plantations in Chiredzi.
It’s quite unfortunate that we still have kids who don’t value education 40 years after independence,” she emphasised.
The naturally beautiful model has urged parents to prioritise their children’s education.
“It’s quite unfortunate that we still have parents who don’t value their kids’ education. There is no way that we can make progress in life if we don’t value the future of our kids. Our kids deserve to be in school all the time without fail.”
Chauke, who lives with her sister Saliwe, said it is hard growing up in rural areas for most girls. “Life here in Mwenezi is very hard, but we have learned to adapt so that we can move on.
“My parents live in the town of Gweru, and it’s just the two of us staying here. However, we have managed to keep our homestead safe, which has earned me respect from my teacher as a responsible kid,” she said.
Chauke, who is also a hairstylist in her teens, has urged other rural kids to keep themselves busy to avoid drug and substance abuse.
“While my main issue is to end school dropout, I will also focus on addressing drug and substance abuse.
“I have noticed that the same scourge is now affecting rural kids because drug lords are now everywhere. As Miss Guiding Star, I should not pretend as if the issue does not exist in rural areas.
“ We have people selling these drugs, and it’s sad that both girls and boys are taking drugs as if it’s fashionable,” she stated.
The ambitious beautician is eager for exposure to showcase her talent at an international level. “Modeling is considered a profession for girls of loose morals, but it is ideal for boosting our confidence.
We used to have Miss Rural Zimbabwe, but it’s quite unfortunate that the pageant is no longer being held. I would have loved to participate in that contest and showcase my talent.”
Like most rural girls, Chauke is experiencing challenges with school fees.
“Here in Mwenezi, we mostly use South African currency, and it’s hard for me to get my school fees paid in time.
“I require R1400 per term, which is equivalent to US$70. This is another reason why some of the girls drop out of school—some parents can’t afford it. There are also stingy parents who just don’t want to invest in their kids’ education, which is quite sad,” she said.
Aside from her passion for modeling, Chauke is also a good athlete with a passion for netball and women’s soccer. She has not let her rural background deter her dreams, as shown by her commitment to modeling and advocating for kids’ rights.
“I have realised that mighty women are heaven-sent and always prioritize the welfare of others. It’s quite unfortunate that we still have people who don’t think of others. In my case, I will do my best to ensure that I stand for another kid next door.
“I will not be happy to be seen rejoicing while another kid next door is sleeping on an empty stomach,” she added.
