My name is Takudzwa Chiwanza and I’m a blogger/writer. Apart from that, I am a Law student at the University of Zimbabwe. I am a person who is passionate about gaining new knowledge and sharing it. What is dear to me is the country Zimbabwe and Africa at large, these are at heart anytime, anywhere. I believe in the power of writing and also committed to the development of our nation. I’m a love warrior.
Where did your passion for writing come from?
I can safely say that being an Arts student during High school was where the passion originated from. Sites such as 3-mob.com, 263Chat, The ZimTainment and Alex Magaisa’s BSR were my sources of inspiration and they continue to be. Being a Law student is also fuelling the passion.
When did you decide to start blogging?
I made the bold decision when I was in Upper Six in 2016.
How did Zimsphere come to be?
The Zimbabwe Sphere started as a Facebook page called the Child Forum in 2015 when I was a Junior Parliamentarian and brought child issues to light. In 2016, I felt I had to spread my wings so I changed the name to The Zimbabwe Sphere. In March 2017, the website for The Zimbabwe Sphere came to life. Ever since, it has been growing sizeably.
Why did you choose to blog about current affairs?
I’m a very huge fan of news. Probably the interest stems from my father who is also a news enthusiast. I’ve always had a burning desire to share what’s happening in the country and abroad to, as I feel that everyone deserves to know what’s happening in having an informed citizenry that makes wise decisions. After all, knowledge is power.
When you are not writing or blogging, what takes up your time?
A good writer is a good and avid reader so I love reading a lot when not writing. I’m also kinda addicted to TV series and I consume a lot of them. Being a keen follower of sports, watching football and cricket take up a considerable amount of my time. And surfing the internet streets. I cook too.
What/who can’t you live without?
Definitely the internet!
Who inspires you the most in life?
This is a tricky question, but well, there are some people who have inspired my journey. My parents have been the biggest supporters of my writings, and my siblings too. Alex Magaisa, Advocate Fadzayi Mahere. Sir Nige and Larry Kwirirayi too.
What does blogging mean to you?
It’s obviously more than a hobby and a business. Blogging for me is life. It is the fundamental element of living the experiences of being a human being. When I blog, I always have my readers in mind, just like any other bloggers, and that aspect of sharing important knowledge is what’s great. Blogging allows me to speak my mind.
What do you hope people will take away from reading your blog?
Unique views and perceptions of Zimbabwe and Africa. I always hope that people know the truth, for I’m a person who loves bringing the truth on some of the biggest issues affecting us. And of course, that people make informed choices.
Describe your blogging routine.
I can’t really say I have a fixed routine as such. But well, it all depends with the inspiration that day. I write for three websites, so it gets a little hectic at times.
What would you say to someone new to blogging or considering blogging?
Start small. Start with what you have. Persistence and patience are key pillars to blogging. Let your passion drive you, for without the interest you are doing nothing. Always seek to answer the questions that your readers have. Be bold with your opinions and interact with your readers. Be awesome. And be enterprising as well.
Do you have bloggers that you follow, if so who and why?
Plenty of bloggers! We have to support each other as bloggers.
What opportunities have come your way because of your blogging/writing?
My writing abilities have seen me being one of the Staff Writers at The African Exponent, one of the biggest news and analysis websites on the continent. I am also a Content Manager for the website African Curators. I also work with an educational start-up, Shasha Network.
If you were to choose the soundtrack to your life what song would it be and why?
Chronixx’s track They Don’t Know. People think what I do in life is easy and effortless, and that I don’t have setbacks but the story is completely different.
How would you like to be remembered?
As that guy who made impact through writing. That guy who always stood for the truth and who wasn’t afraid to speak his mind. I like to leave a trail of positive change in Zimbabwe and in Africa at large.
Social media handles/website links
Facebook: Takudzwa Larry Chiwanza
Twitter: @HillzyTakudzwa
Instagram: @hillzytakudzwa
Website: www.zimsphere.com
A very conscious young man full of life. Will go far.
He is a man with a vision