By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
At just 18, Norest Chigombe has already faced more hardships than most.
Growing up in a struggling household in Bindura, he learned early on that if he wanted an education, he would have to fight for it.
With a father more focused on gold panning than schooling and no financial support at home, Norest’s dream of furthering his education seemed impossible—until his determination and resilience paved the way for a brighter future.
A student at Chipindura High School, Norest defied the odds when he excelled in his O Level examinations, earning an impressive seven As and three Bs. But while his results were remarkable, affording school fees for A Level became a battle he wasn’t sure he could win.
“I had to work at the school just to be able to continue learning,” Norest recalls. “My father wasn’t interested in my education, and as we speak, he doesn’t even know where I got the money to keep going.”
With no support system at home and no financial resources, Norest took matters into his own hands. Instead of dropping out, he worked at his school, cleaning and doing odd jobs to earn his keep. His headmaster, Mr. S Manimanzi, recognizing his determination, gave him the opportunity to work for his fees.
Dressed in an overall—a gift from the headmaster—Norest spent his days toiling away while his classmates attended lessons.
“It was tough, seeing others focus solely on their studies while I had to work,” he said. “But I never let that break me because I knew what I wanted—to succeed.”
A Life-Changing Opportunity
His perseverance didn’t go unnoticed. Seeing his potential and struggles, Mr. Manimanzi encouraged Norest to apply for the Delta Corporation Bursary Program when submissions opened for 2025.
The Delta Corporation Bursary Program has transformed the lives of many talented but underprivileged students, ensuring they have the financial support needed to stay in school and thrive.
And fate was on Norest’s side. He was selected as a bursary recipient, securing the funding he so desperately needed to continue his education.
“I am beyond grateful to Delta Corporation for this opportunity. Without this bursary, I don’t know how I would have continued with my education,” Norest shared, his voice filled with relief and excitement.
Delta’s Commitment to Education
At the bursary induction ceremony held at Mandel Training Centre, Patricia Murambinda, General Manager, Corporate Affairs, welcomed the new recipients into the Delta family, emphasizing the company’s dedication to education and national development.
“This bursary is more than just financial support; it is a partnership between you and Delta Corporation,” Murambinda stated. “We believe in your dreams, and we know that your success will contribute to the growth of our society.”
She urged students to stay focused, disciplined, and committed to excellence—values that define both the bursary program and Delta Corporation itself.
A Future Full of Promise
For Norest, this bursary is not just financial relief; it’s the gateway to a future he has fought so hard to secure.
“I don’t have to worry about dropping out or working to pay my fees anymore,” he said. “Now, I can fully focus on my studies and work towards becoming someone who can one day help others, just like Delta has helped me.”
His story is one of hope, perseverance, and the power of never giving up—a powerful reminder that no dream is out of reach when determination leads the way.
Seated: Delta Corporation officials and some of the beneficiaries of Bursary Program
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