Hero's Name: Mziwendaba Jizani
Accolade Type: Making a difference
Applauded for: Youth Development
Nominated By: Thandokazi Ngqibayo
In 2005 Mziwendaba Jizani, known as ta Zet, started an after-school programme with 15 learners, tutoring them in mathematics and physical science in order that they may pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (Stem). Since the start of the project it has produced 186 graduates at different universities, universities of technology and TVET colleges, and (currently) there are 212 students at universities across South Africa. Mziwendaba is still tutoring students from Grade 10 to Grade 12 in mathematics and physical science and mentoring them in career planning, especially in the Stem fields. He has also been a judge at the Eden District Regional Eskom Science Expo since 2016. In 2016 he was awarded a Rotary Citizen of the Year Merit Award by the Mossel Bay Rotary Club and in 2018 he was among the top 200 young people awarded by Mail and Guardian in the education category. He has changed the lives of many young people in our community and he has done so free of charge.
