…. Fungai Goronga’s Inspiring Journey
By Dumisani Ndlovu
Voicing the Unspoken: Fungie the poet brings words to life with her powerful performance poetry, inspiring a generation with her courage, passion, and creativity
In the vibrant city of Gweru, Zimbabwe, a remarkable young woman is making waves with her extraordinary talent for poetry. Fungai Goronga, a 19-year-old law student at Midlands State University, has embarked on a journey that transcends the boundaries of art and activism. Fungai’s love affair with poetry began in the unassuming settings of Old Ascot Club House and Muwunga Primary School grandstand. As she honed her craft, her passion for performance poetry grew, eventually leading her to join the High Voltage Poets, a community poetry academy, in 2019. Under the mentorship of an experienced artistic director and theatre production manager, Fungai mastered the art of blending spoken word with advocacy. Her dedication and perseverance paid off as she rose through the ranks of the High Voltage Poets junior team. Fungai’s poetry is more than just a form of self-expression; it is a powerful tool for storytelling and social commentary.
With each performance, she transports her audience to a world of vivid imagery and emotional depth. Her words resonate with a sense of urgency, inspiring her listeners to take action. In 2019, Fungai participated in the national StarBrite poetry competition, where her exceptional talent earned her a scholarship that paved the way for her higher education. This breakthrough moment marked the beginning of her journey as a beacon of hope for her community. Fungai’s rise to prominence continued in 2020 when she, alongside fellow poet Lesson Dumoluhle Ndlovu, performed at the World Diabetes Day commemoration. Their heartfelt performance caught the attention of dignitaries, including Vice President General Rtd Constantino Chiwenga, who offered them scholarships up to university level.
“Empowering the next generation of leader! Fungai Goronga on her conferment as Junior MP and Minister of Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services.
The pivotal moment in Fungai’s journey arrived during the provincial junior parliament selection process at Chaplin High School. With her powerful speech on “The Right of the Children in the Digital Environment,” she demonstrated her unwavering confidence and passion for advocacy. Fungai’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of art. Through her poetry, she has not only carved out a space for herself but has also paved the way for others to follow. As she continues to rise, Fungai stands poised to leave an indelible mark on her community and beyond. In the heart of Gweru, where the echoes of life dance through the streets, Fungai Goronga shines as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path for future generations of poets, dreamers, and changemakers. Her journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the profound impact of creative expression.
The versatile and multi-talented Fungai Goronga
