Cooking up a Storm

Clara Mbare (Photo: Tendayi Mudyarabikwa)

Clara Mbare (20) graduated in Hotel & Catering from Young Africa Chitungwiza, Zimbabwe in 2016. Clara completed her ‘O’ Levels in 2014 and only passed two subjects. She lost hope in her life: ‘I thought I wasn’t capable of doing anything, I lost my self-esteem, I spent two years doing nothing’. Clara’s passion for cooking meant that the company she went on attachment to (Bethel Catering) employed her immediately. Clara took up the job even though her dream is to be an entrepreneur. She now earns $200 per month and stays at the Young Africa hostel to keep costs low. Through savings Clara has managed to start a side business making cakes. ‘My monthly income has changed my life, I am able to send money to my parents, I am contributing to my brother’s school fees, I am confident, the sky is the limit for me thanks to Young Africa’.