Tererai Tabaz Matavire ‘The Man Who Conquers’
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ife, this is something that some may like or hate. Causing many to commit suicide, with the rest to party until the sun doesn’t shine. We can lose hope for most things, but with hope we can live a better life. Some say the sky is the limit, but with God, anything is possible and as my headmaster always says, “Success is just an attitude.” Purpose, we have one to be amazing to some and remain with that gift of inspiration for the rest. Only God is the way, The Truth and The Life. Such words must not be forgotten but instead, sent to all, chose happiness over sadness and hope over despair. It is not over until it’s over and winners never lose in the same way losers never win.
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ompliments of the day Mr. Matavire. Can you please kick start by telling us a bit about yourself? 1)Anesuishe, what really keeps you going in life after facing so many demons and giants?
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ne can never say how bad it is to cope with such. It can be seen as a battle between Mike Tyson vs Muhammad Ali or Manchester United vs Manchester City. Perseverance is the only one-word answer for this question. My poems express a sense of closure. Future poems are set to Include material based on (mental health awareness). I have passion for standing up for others and my love for humanity is what drives me to never give up, using my abilities to make someone’s life better.
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ou have such an amazing personality, as a role model to many people who look up to you, which core values really define you?
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y image can be seen as a funny, caring & hardworking person. Master your passion as life is all about
finding one/ several things you’re passionate & doing it. Life is all about serving people. Core values of any person should be discipline and gratitude. Discipline is needed as I came from an era that is lenient, and with discipline the arrived beneficial values. Gratitude, I should to be thankful & appreciate all the people for what they have done for me. Fulfill your purpose in life, instead practice your gifts, be more practical.
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nesu, with all the inspirations you’re giving out to the world, where do you see yourself in 5 years from now?
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ith all the time in the world & bearing in mind of the unpredictability of life itself, completion my courses in Events Management, Photography & Digital Marketing is my next step. I look to establish myself as a professional in all the courses, become a Motivational Influencer & speaker. In addition, a self-titled NGO (The Tererai Matavire Foundation) will be created. Focusing on education, mental health awareness & cancer treatment and a fully equipped school. At 4 years old I had Cancer (Rhabdomyosarcoma) Difficult to diagnosis & it’s recognition, there was doubt. I with all smiles going for treatment that would define my life. This treatment (Radiation & Chemotherapy), was a success but at a cost with side effects (a deaf right ear, & an irregular size of my jaw). Regular insults came from primary school, but I had to let that go. At Peterhouse, came help from new friends. Restricted to most sport (my fragile body), I did clubs like Leo Club & interact, helping people. I have presented motivational speeches for both of my high schools despite fear of large crowds & my stammering. My 1st jaw surgery 2009, with my 2nd in 2010 as well as eating from one side of my mouth as a result. Recommended by staff, they said, “ Do you want to write
your exams after just having surgery?” I persisted for my sake & my friends. Failing most of my exams I passed the rest with better results, with English & English Literature above 90%. In 2013 I received a lifetime achievement award for all my efforts despite my challenges, trials & tribulations. My father passed away from leukemia, however, came a dream, with bright light, and my father in the garden. He told me to take care. Opposite him was God on his throne, made of gold, he told me not to worry & he will always be with me as God is with us. At High Achievers College, I started a Leo club from scratch. During 2014 – 2015, and my epilepsy condition is worsening with a noticeable decrease in my grades. As a result, further tests and medical help (South Africa). In 2016 an incident where a seizure resulting from fading, landed me in ICU, basically numb in my legs, walking as if I was a 90-year-old. A Jaw replacement followed a few months later & More of these seizures occurred (between one and three). Three years with no school were filled with abnormal pain from jaw exercises, I returned to school for a Hotel management course at a Hotel School (IHS) in SA. During one episode I had 7 seizures, the most I’ve to date, yet I still live. with two stints at 3 & 5 Star hotels I got experience as a Front Desk Operator, Barman & Waiter. (The Hardest Working Person). Present day, I’ve had 4 seizure free months. Despite all my problems, God has been there day in day out. Built upon losses & pain but in the end there’s a rainbow after a storm, showing the start of a new day.
…” That which does not kill us makes us stronger” Friedrich Nietzsche
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