What is your hometown? 

Gweru, Zimbabwe in Africa

 

What are some unique or experiences or memories for you, growing up?

Growing up, every Christmas holiday my family and I would make a road trip to the rural areas to see my grandparents. Other extended family members would also visit and my grandparents would make so much food and we would sit around the fire to eat. We would go back home with a truck filled with fresh maize, peanuts, sweet potatoes, and wild fruits.

 

What brought you to Cleveland? 

I came to Cleveland in 2014 as an intern through the Summer on the Cuyahoga (SOTC) Program. I was a Research Analyst Intern at Austen BioInnovation Institute in Akron.

 

What were your first thoughts about coming to the US? Did those change? 

I was nervous about being away from home and the long plane ride did not make it any better. Two Smith students were already waiting for me when I landed at Bradley Airport. When I arrived at the beautiful Smith campus and met other international students who had come for orientation, I didn’t feel alone. I felt at home.

 

How have people that you’ve met made you feel welcomed?

I feel welcomed when people show a genuine interest in getting to know where I come from and my culture.

 

Are there any traditions or customs that you continue to practice?

Each time we meet as Zimbabweans we make our staple meal which is corn-meal (sadza), vegetables (kale) and stew.

 

What do you love about Ohio? 

I came to Ohio during summer 2014 and I loved the museums, botanical garden, food trucks and live music.

 

Why is it so important to welcome international newcomers? 

International newcomers bring in diverse cultures and different ways of thinking. It’s amazing how much you can learn from people from different cultures without having to make a trip to their countries. I had friends from different parts of the world and sitting down with them and getting to know their culture was one of the most enriching experiences. I had the opportunity to appreciate how culture shapes who you are and I also gained deeper awareness of world issues.