“Sometimes the journey you take is not just about where you end up, but the impact you have along the way.” These words encapsulate the path of Sibusisiwe Mukwakwami Madziyire (Sibu), whose journey has been defined by a passion for supporting others, advocating for marginalized communities, and creating a lasting impact. Education Matters is thrilled to welcome Sibu to our team, where her wealth of experience, dedication, and unique perspective will no doubt drive significant change in the lives of professionals, both locally and internationally as she starts her new position as Careers Associate.
Sibusisiwe, an INFJ on the Myers-Briggs personality scale, describes herself as an introvert who thrives in collaborative settings. She explains, “I find fulfilment in supporting others and advocating for those who need it most.” Her journey began in 2012 when she was selected as a USAP scholar, an opportunity that led to receiving a Mastercard Foundation Scholarship to study at the University of California, Berkeley, where she pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Development Studies. Her time at Berkeley was transformative—not only did she excel academically, but she also immersed herself in various roles that deepened her understanding of cultural diversity and mentorship. “I loved blogging for Voice America Student Union, serving as a liaison for international students at Berkeley International Office, and tutoring Anthropology students. These roles helped me appreciate the power of cultural relativity and mentorship.”
After graduation, Sibu returned to Zimbabwe, facing a challenging six-month job search. She reflects, “It was a tough time, but I never gave up on my passion for service. I volunteered in community health initiatives and stayed focused on my goal to create change.” Her breakthrough came when she networked into an internship with a World Bank Consultant at a Corporate Governance Advisory firm. Shortly after, she joined Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) where she took on multiple roles, including media intern, research assistant on a project addressing non-communicable diseases in peri-urban areas of Zimbabwe. She also worked in Kanyemba, serving the Doma community, a place that has become her second home.“The experience working in rural areas, especially in Kanyemba, one of the most remote places in Zimbabwe, was life-changing. It felt like a second home.”
Sibu’s dedication and growth led her to the role of Personal Assistant to the Country Director at ADRA, and she later pursued a Master’s in Social Exclusion at Åbo Akademi University in Finland, where she worked with Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) in fundraising. “These international experiences gave me insights into strategic networking, advocacy, and the value of engagement with diverse communities,” she says. Armed with this knowledge, Sibu is now ready to contribute to Education Matters and help others navigate their own journeys from campus to career success.
When Sibu read the job advertisement for her new role, she immediately felt an overwhelming sense of connection. “It felt like a reflection of my own journey—helping others navigate career transitions, mentoring, and supporting professionals in achieving their dreams. It was like receiving an official recognition for all the work I had been doing out of passion.” She is particularly excited about helping Zimbabweans with international education secure their dream internships, graduate trainee and jobs and re-establish themselves professionally in Zimbabwe, Africa and remotely. “I see myself supporting those who are in the same position I was in eight years ago—returning home and struggling to find direction.”
Looking ahead, Sibu views her role as a bridge between Zimbabweans with international education with career opportunities in Zimbabwe and Africa. “Many internationally educated Zimbabweans struggle to reintegrate into the local workforce, and this role is crucial in providing them with the support they need,” she explains. Her goal for her first year is ambitious but attainable: to place at least 100 internationally educated professionals in jobs, graduate trainee opportunities or internships. “Success will be measured by the number of placements, the quality of opportunities secured, and the professional growth of the individuals we support,” Sibu says. For her, this work is not just a job—it’s a mission to change lives and strengthen Zimbabwe’s talent landscape.
The Education Matters team is thrilled and looks forward to working with and learning Sibu to help accelerate Zimbabweans with international education into careers of impact.
