KWEKWE —Goldridge Schools received the night’s most coveted academic honour: The Academic Excellence & Impact Award at the prestigious Midlands Community Trailblazers awards held last Friday, 27 March 2026.

The Midlands province celebrated its most iconic institutions in a momentous occasion that underscored decades of dedication.

The MCTA, themed “Harvesting Excellence: Celebrating Community Champions,” celebrated the region’s top performers, where the organisers hailed Goldridge not just as a school, but as a “Beacon of Excellence” for the entirety of Zimbabwe.

A Masterclass in Performance

The evening reached a true crescendo as the Goldridge School Band took to the stage, captivating the audience with a sophisticated and polished repertoire that transcended traditional student recitals.

Sharing the stage with local music giants Black Umfolosi and gospel singer Flame B, THE young musicians provided a stunning live demonstration of the school’s holistic approach to education, proving that artistic mastery is held in the same high regard as scientific enquiry.

Their performance was a melodic testament to the school’s core mission: nurturing every child’s unique potential through a balanced intellectual, spiritual, and physical curriculum.

As the final notes echoed through the hall, it was clear that Goldridge does not just teach students to follow scores—it teaches them to lead them with confidence and grace.

The band’s presence served as a reminder that the school’s “Gold Standard” applies to every stage, whether it be a laboratory or a concert hall.

Unrivalled Academic & Sporting Prowess

When the time came for the main honours, the awards adjudication panel was effusive in its praise. They cited Goldridge’s remarkable transformation into a world-class powerhouse, noting that the institution has consistently moved beyond regional benchmarks to compete on the global stage.

The panel highlighted several key pillars of this success:

• Academic Dominance: The school maintains a staggering 95% A-Level pass rate. Special mention was made of Tinotenda Makunde’s historic 20-point achievement and Ilhaam Esat’s incredible 10 A-grades at IGCSE, both of whom have set a new national standard for academic discipline.
• Global Sporting Impact: The school’s athletic department was lauded for its “Midas touch” in talent identification. The institution was specifically praised for producing Ropafadzo Mzondo, currently ranked 1st globally in the U18 Men’s 200M—a feat that has put the Midlands on the international map and inspired a new generation of Zimbabwean sprinters.
• Elite Alumni Legacy: The induction celebrated the enduring legacy of the “Armoured Knights”—alumni like Bridget Dube and Trevor Rukwava. These trailblazers continue to lead with distinction across global professional sectors, from medicine and engineering to international finance, proving that a Goldridge education is a lifelong passport to success.

Leadership for the Future

In addition to the main prize, Goldridge also secured “Highly Commended” certificates in the Community Social Responsibility and Environmental Stewardship categories, further highlighting their commitment to a better Zimbabwe. Accepting the accolades, the school’s leadership reaffirmed their commitment to the “Goldridge Way”—a philosophy rooted in the belief that every student is a trailblazer in waiting.

“This recognition is not just for the school, but for the parents, teachers, and students who believe that limits only exist if you allow them to,” remarked the School Head during an emotional acceptance speech. “We are dedicated to refining our curriculum to meet the demands of the fourth industrial revolution while keeping our spiritual values intact.”

“Goldridge Schools has proven that excellence is not an act, but a habit,” added Albert Masaka, ZCTA CEO, during his keynote address. “Their leadership within the Midlands and their contribution to the national educational fabric is immense. They set the gold standard for what modern African education should look like.”

As the gala drew to a close, the consensus was unanimous. Goldridge Schools remains the undisputed crown jewel of the Midlands, blending traditional values with a forward-thinking, global perspective. The “Armoured Knights” continue to charge forward, proving that their legacy is not just about past victories, but about a relentless pursuit of a brilliant future.

Harare – The Zim Community Trailblazers Awards (ZCTA) has announced a comprehensive strategy that focuses on inclusive partnerships as it celebrates the fifth edition of the prestigious community awards ceremony.

The strategy, aimed at promoting excellence and community development in Zimbabwe, is built around 11 key pillars: commitment to the awards’ mission and vision, inclusive media partnership, innovation, unique selling proposition, strong relationships, robust brand identity, industry analysis, collaboration, quality and excellence, online presence, and audience engagement.

“As we celebrate our fifth edition, we remain committed to our mission and vision,” said Meshia Mambo, ZCTA spokesperson.

The prestigious community awards’ mission is to recognise and celebrate outstanding achievements and contributions to community development, social responsibility, and excellence in Zimbabwe. The awards’ vision is to be the premier awards ceremony in Zimbabwe, renowned for recognising and celebrating excellence, innovation, and community development.

The ZCTA board led by Dr. Nigel Chanakira, a renowned business mentor and philanthropist, has been instrumental in shaping the awards’ vision and mission. Its leadership has been pivotal in promoting excellence and community development in Zimbabwe.

Respected medical practitioner Dr Johaness Marisa and Tinashe Nyahwema are the other board members including shareholders Albert Masaka and Tariro Masunda.

“We are pleased to announce that West View Clinics and Westview Group of Schools and Ekenia Chifamba from Shamwari Ye Mwanasikana have come on board to sponsor some categories,” said Meshia Mambo. “We are grateful for their support and call upon more sponsors to partner with us in celebrating excellence and community development in Zimbabwe.”

The ZCTA seeks to foster strong relationships with stakeholders, including nominees, winners, sponsors, and partners. This will enable the awards to continue promoting community development, social responsibility, and excellence in Zimbabwe.

The Zim Community Trailblazers Awards is a prestigious awards ceremony that aims to promote community development, social responsibility, and excellence in Zimbabwe. The awards are open to individuals and organizations from all sectors, including business, sports, education, entertainment, healthcare, and non-profit, among others.

The organisers of the Zim Community Trailblazers Awards would like to congratulate our colleagues in the media, The Herald for recognising the country’s unsung heroes and heroines at The Herald Community Heroes Awards ceremony held last night in Harare.

The Herald Community Heroes Awards winners were honoured for working tirelessly to transform their communities.

We can not agree more with Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprise Development permanent secretary Dr. Mavis Sibanda, who emphasised on the crucial role community heroes play in addressing social challenges, promoting unity, and fostering a sense of belonging.

Dr Sibanda was representing guest of honour Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprise Development Senator Monica Mutsvangwa.

We also appreciate The Herald editor, Victoria Ruzvidzo’s, insightful comments on how such awards inspire others to engage in community service and activism, ultimately strengthening community bonds.

In the spirit of celebrating excellence, we extend our congratulations to the esteemed winners, including:

– Prevail International

– Geo Pomona

– West Properties

– CAG Bus Services

– National Foods

– Doves

– Levarto

– The Embassy of Palestine

– Herentials

– Zim Free Range Chicks

– Dr. Divine Ndhlukula

– Dr. Afra Nhanhanga

– Dr. Paul Tungwarara

– Mrs. Joana Sharpe

– Dr. Dilesh Nguwaya

– Mr. Pedzisai Sakupwanya

– Mr. Farai Matsika

– The SDA Church

And to the Community Award Winners from various provinces:

– *Harare*: Mai Thembi (Mabvuku), Mr. Aaron Aaron (Mufakose)

– *Bulawayo*: Sazini Tshuma, Mrs. Chingombe

– *Manicaland*: Mr. Edmore Nyamangodo, Molin Chipoyi

– *Mashonaland Central*: Lancos Kuuyangepi, Mr. Mamera Kadzingatsayi (Mbire)

– *Mashonaland East*: Gloria Kaisa (Chikomba)

– *Mashonaland West*: Billy Rwodzi, Hugh Maya (Chegutu)

– *Matabeleland North*: Obert Dube, Chief Mbuso Bhekithemba Dakamela (Nkayi)

– *Masvingo*: Calisto Chimoyi (Bikita East)

– *Matabeleland South*: Mrs. Babongile Gora, Mr. Pick Nkomwa

– *Midlands*: Earnest Muchechetere (Shurugwi Ward 9)

Once again, congratulations to all the winners!