Varie Dongo is a dynamic entrepreneur and compassionate philanthropist whose life serves as a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit. As the founder of Chenjedzo Trust, a nonprofit organization dedicated to community empowerment, her story is one of transformation—turning personal challenges into a source of hope and inspiration for others.
A Journey Rooted in Compassion
Born and raised in Zimbabwe, Varie grew up witnessing the struggles of communities in resource-scarce environments. These formative experiences ignited her passion for change. Fueled by deep empathy, she dedicated herself to ensuring that others could access opportunities she had once dreamed of as a child.
Her professional journey began at Shamwari Yemwanasikana, an organization focused on leadership and community development, where she served as a board member. This role marked the start of her humanitarian efforts, propelling her into initiatives that would later inspire global aspirations.
“My humanitarian work has taken me to various organizations locally, and I hope to go international. I have worked tirelessly to promote social and economic empowerment,” she reflects.
The Birth of Chenjedzo Trust
In 2019, driven by an unwavering commitment to making a larger impact, Varie founded Chenjedzo Trust. This organization provides a platform to address the needs of vulnerable communities.
Based in Kwekwe, in the Midlands Province, Chenjedzo Trust focuses on:
- Ensuring access to quality education for disadvantaged children and youth.
- Empowering women and girls through economic and skills training to help them thrive.
- Fostering community development through healthcare, sanitation, and infrastructure projects.
- Advocating for the rights of underserved populations, particularly women and children, to promote social justice and equality.
Under Varie’s visionary leadership, Chenjedzo Trust has become a beacon of hope for women and youth in Zimbabwe, with a special emphasis on supporting single mothers and widows. The organization has empowered hundreds of women through hands-on vocational training, economic upliftment programs, and personalized mentorship, equipping them to build sustainable futures. By partnering with local organizations, Chenjedzo Trust has expanded its reach and deepened its impact within underserved communities.
“My journey is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and dedication to making a difference. As the founder of Chenjedzo Trust, I will continue to inspire and empower communities, leaving a lasting legacy of kindness, compassion, and generosity,” Varie says.
The Path to Empowerment: Community-Centered Action
Chenjedzo Trust embodies a collaborative and inclusive approach to sustainable development, seamlessly integrating community engagement, institutional partnerships, and policy advocacy to drive impactful change.
Through active collaboration with local leaders, the organization identifies pressing needs and implements tailored initiatives, including entrepreneurship programs and vocational training, to empower communities.
By forging strategic alliances with NGOs, government agencies, and local entities, Chenjedzo Trust amplifies its capacity to deliver resources and support effectively. Furthermore, its commitment to policy advocacy—underpinned by rigorous research and lobbying efforts—aims to promote legislative reforms that uplift single mothers, widows, and marginalized populations, fostering social and economic equity.
“We establish relationships with local community leaders, churches, and support groups to identify single mothers and widows in need. We conduct thorough needs assessments to understand the specific challenges faced by these women, including economic, social, and emotional struggles,” Varie notes.
Transforming Lives Through Skills and Economic Independence
Chenjedzo Trust has made significant strides in advancing women’s empowerment through its vocational training and entrepreneurial support programs. These initiatives have enabled hundreds of women to achieve financial independence by equipping them with skills that reduce poverty and create steady income sources. Many participants have successfully launched their own businesses, fostering a renewed sense of purpose and confidence.
Beyond economic empowerment, these programs emphasize the development of essential soft skills, including self-esteem and resilience. This ensures that women are not only economically empowered but also prepared to navigate personal and societal challenges with strength and determination.
“The training programs have empowered participants, especially women, to start their own businesses, leading to increased financial independence and self-sufficiency,” Varie confidently reveals.
“Chenjedzo Trust’s programs also focus on developing soft skills, such as self-esteem and optimism, which are essential for entrepreneurial success. Participants have reported increased confidence in their ability to start and manage their own businesses, fostering a greater sense of entrepreneurial aspiration.”
Despite the progress, women in Zimbabwe still face systemic hurdles, including limited access to credit, lack of funding, and entrenched gender inequalities. Rural women, in particular, bear the brunt of these challenges. Chenjedzo Trust actively works to bridge these gaps by providing financial literacy, creating income-generating opportunities, and advocating for better policies.
“We facilitate income-generating activities such as farming, handicraft production, and detergent-making to provide single mothers and widows with stable sources of income,” Varie explains.
The Heart of Humanity
Varie Dongo’s story is not just about philanthropy—it is a blueprint for sustainable change. Her leadership exemplifies how passion, perseverance, and a profound sense of purpose can transform lives and communities.
Through Chenjedzo Trust, she has created a legacy that uplifts, empowers, and inspires, proving that one person’s vision can illuminate countless lives. Varie Dongo embodies the spirit of humanity—driven by kindness, bound by compassion, and propelled by the unyielding belief in a better tomorrow.
For single mothers, widows, and vulnerable communities, Chenjedzo Trust is more than an organization. It is a lifeline, a partner in their journey to dignity, and a shining light guiding them toward hope and opportunity.