The Zivakwavakabva Community Project

My name is Tendai Simbai. I am from Murewa in Zimbabwe. Thank you for looking at this project. In my language Shona I say "Zivakwavakabva" which means “Remember Where You Come From” and I say "Maitabasa" which means ”Thank You”.

My name is Tendai Lee Simbai. I came to UK in 2000 on a basketball scholarship - I loved my time playing this great team sport. I made friendships and built family.

When leaving my homeland in 2000 I knew one day I needed to find ways to give back to the place where I was born and raised - Murewa in Zimbabwe. Making sure the people at home know I remember where I come from has become my mission.

During my time in the UK I have earned qualifications and gained skills in mechanical engineering. Outside of work I dedicate all my resources and free time to planning projects that will support my village back home.

We have done a lot of work with maize project and water systems, supporting local schools and using sport to inspire young people. The community is stronger for the things we have already done but I want to do more… I call this ‘The Zivakwavakabva Community Project’.

My family helped me set up a website so people can find out more abut what we do - click here. This GoFundMe page is so anyone that wants to donate to the project can do that here.

For my next project I am constructing a community basketball court in Murewa.

There is only 1 court shared between 20 schools.

To raise funds I am cycling from Lands End to John O'Groats in July 2025.

I will have to cycle 100 Miles a day for 10 days. 1189 miles in total.

I am not a cyclist. I have begun cycle and stamina training but this challenge for me is a big one. I invite you to follow along as I take this on..

Any donations made will go directly towards the building the basketball court in Murewa. I will update on social media as I get ready for the ride and then complete building of the court with the people of Murewa..

In my language I say “Maitabasa”

Thankyou.

Tendai