Where are you from, what are you currently studying and at which institution?
I’m from Zimbabwe, and I'm currently studying the Master of Disability Practice and Leadership at Flinders University.
Before coming to Adelaide, I completed my Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Counselling at Zimbabwe Open University.
What has your timeline in Adelaide looked like?
As a recipient of the Australia Awards Africa scholarship, my successful application marked the beginning of my transformative journey at both a professional and personal level.
I arrived in Adelaide in February 2025, which was my first time living abroad alone without family. Even though I was anxious, I kept reminding myself that I came to learn and should make the most of every experience.
In my first year, I applied to become a volunteer for the Oasis Student Wellbeing Ambassador, and Course Representative in the College of Nursing and Health Sciences.
Now in my second year, I am continuing in my previous roles and have added being a Flinders International Volunteer Experience (FIVE) and Disability Inclusion student representative in the College Education Committee (CEC).
I am also a member of the Flinders University Africa Scholars Association and the Flinders University Students with Disabilities Association. The learning experiences I have gained are extremely rewarding.
What motivated you to choose Adelaide over other Australian cities for your studies?
There were lots of reasons why I chose to study in Adelaide. The weather in Adelaide is similar to my home country, as I like the sunny weather. I also like how Adelaide is closely connected to everything and the communities around me. While being accessible for me to get around in my wheelchair, which is something that I value highly.
Adelaide is known as the ‘City of Churches’, and I was able to find a church that aligns with my values and beliefs that keeps me grounded in my faith.
I also love fine dining, and Adelaide is recognised as one of the ‘Great Wine Capitals of the World’ with 18 regions. I wanted to make sure I visit most of them.
I am a nature lover, and reading about the Adelaide Botanical Gardens, I knew it would be the perfect escape to refresh my mind during my academic journey.
Choosing to study in Adelaide was the best choice I have made, as you can learn something new every day in a supportive and welcoming environment.
How did you select your course and institution, and what resources or support services have you found most helpful at your institution?
As a student with a disability, I was drawn and inspired by Flinders University's mission and commitment to providing an environment where students with disabilities are valued, supported, and encouraged. While also creating residential communities that are welcoming, inclusive and accessible, making it possible to be fully independent.
The support and knowledge I’m gaining in my studies are enhancing my leadership competency skills. As a founder of an organisation that supports women and girls with physical disabilities in Zimbabwe, this has been highly useful.
The leadership workshops and programs offered by StudyAdelaide have equipped me with invaluable hands-on experiences that have enhanced my ability to lead teams and be an effective communicator, complementing my studies.
Attending university and StudyAdelaide social events have provided me with the opportunity to learn about the Australian culture and network with diverse groups of people from across the world.
Describe a moment when you felt truly at home in Adelaide?
This experience that made me feel at home in Adelaide was the support I received from the International Student Services (ISS) team at Flinders University. They were incredibly supportive from when I was still in my home country until the moment I landed in Adelaide.
Another moment was when I attended the StudyAdelaide Christmas Garden Party in 2025 at Government House. It was an honour to have a brief conversation with Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC, Governor of South Australia and patron of StudyAdelaide. Just being there as part of the celebration, I felt truly at home in Adelaide.
If you were to take a friend on a day trip around Adelaide, where would you take them and why?
The day would start at the Barossa Valley for an unforgettable tour of the vineyards, wine tasting and enjoying a tasty lunch overlooking rolling vineyards. Then, to end the day, I would take them to Glenelg Beach to watch the sunset over the ocean.
What are your future aspirations?
My future aspiration is to contribute at national, regional and global levels by combining my personal experiences with evidence-based knowledge, to become a recognised leader in disability inclusion.
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