History makers fulfil the dream

After his aunt adopted him and paid for the remainder of his secondary education, Mateko became an Econet “History Maker”. The generosity he received in his hour of need has inspired the 22-year-old to embark on a journey to give back to the less-privileged in his country.

He has already tasted leadership, having been a junior parliamentarian for Marondera and Minister of Finance in the country’s junior parliament.

“I lost my mother to breast cancer in August 2006 and my father died in July 2012 from ulcers. My mother’s sister, Peninah Shoko, who remains my heroine, took me to complete my education. By the grace of God, in 2009 I won a scholarship from the Strive and Tsitsi Masiyiwa fund, that paid my Advanced Level and is now paying my university fees at Midlands State University, where I am studying a B.Com Degree in Economics. I hope this will help me achieve my dream of giving back to society later in life.”

Other than his aunt, Mateko said his mother and the Masiyiwas remained his biggest inspiration.

“Love and hope was restored to me by these great people. My patrons aim at raising leaders with a global mindset. Apart from sponsorship, deaconess Tsitsi Masiyiwa taught us greatly on spiritual matters through Christian material, cell groups and all nighters held for Econet-sponsored students,” he added.

Geared to be a benefactor and fulfil his social responsibility duties, the young man and his fellow Econet-sponsored students formed the Bensstarp Foundation in 2011.

“Its aim is to help disadvantaged children have access to education, health and other necessities as well as preaching of the word of God,” he explained. “We also help orphans, vulnerable children, minority groups, albinos and the aged. This passion started when I was a Member of Parliament and Minister of Finance in the junior parliament. In previous years, we managed to donate goods to old aged homes and rehabilitation centres in Gweru. Our most recent event was at Jairos Jiri Mukuwapasi Children’s Home in Rusape on May 25.”

Among the foundation’s short-term goals is the registration of income generating projects, the holding of charity shows and the recruitment of beneficiaries – to be called Pacesetters.

“In the long term, we would like to offer full scholarships and fight all forms of child abuse – both girls and boys, added Mateko.

His biggest wish for Zimbabwe is to see the full recognition of children’s rights, regardless of their disabilities or any other factor, the maintenance of peace and creation of a conducive environment for investment, employment and reconciliation and an increase in respect for humanity.

“The foundation encourages that all its members support their relatives since we believe that charity begins at home, but also that it should not end there.”

Other members of the foundation include advisors William Chimene and Gladys Marimira, tertiary manager Jessie Muza and members Aaron Shoko, Precious Chakara, Gilbert Chapara, Judje Mandaza and Lancelot Waison.