IHRAM Influencer Mbizo Chirasha in conversation with multi-talented Zimbabwean student-activist Caroline Muwonda

MC: Who Is Caroline Muwonda and what are you known for in Zimbabwe and abroad?
Caroline Muwonda: Caroline is a 23-year-old young woman currently studying towards Applied Biosciences and Biotechnology in her third year at Midlands State University in Zimbabwe. I’m is a passionate global public health enthusiast, public speaker, and spoken word poet. Recently, l was appointed as The African Federation (TAF) Environment Country Chapter Head for Zimbabwe where l serve as the key liaison between TAF Environment and local stakeholders.
I’m also actively engaged in science communication, a programme that aims to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and community understanding, empowering others with the information they need to make informed decisions about their health and environment.
In January 2025, l founded the One Health Reform Alliance Initiative, a youth-led initiative dedicated to fostering a holistic approach to health and wellness. This initiative recognizes the interconnectedness of human health, animal health, and the environment, aiming to promote sustainable practices and awareness among  people in Zimbabwe and beyond.
Through these diverse roles,l am deeply committed to advocating for health equity, environmental sustainability, and youth engagement in critical global issues.

MC: What do you do as a media corp and what are your experiences?
Caroline Muwonda: As a media contributor, I focus on several critical issues, particularly centered around girl child empowerment through education. I believe in the transformative power of education, and I strive to inspire young girls to pursue academic excellence and leadership roles. Additionally, I write about antimicrobial resistance, cancer awareness, and holistic health approaches. My background in Applied Biosciences and Biotechnology informs my writing, allowing me to communicate complex scientific concepts in an accessible manner. I aim to raise awareness around these health topics, emphasizing the importance of informed public discourse and community engagement.
My experience as a public speaker further enhances my ability to connect with diverse audiences. I am committed to advocating for health literacy and empowering individuals with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

MC: Have you ever done any work in the area of human rights?
Caroline Muwonda: Yes, during my tenure as a junior member of Parliament, I was actively involved in advocating for the rights of women and girls living with disabilities. This commitment was exemplified when I was selected as the head of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) for the International Day of the Girl Child in October 2019. On that day, I focused on raising awareness and amplifying the voices of individuals with disabilities during discussions.
The campaign, known as the ZimGirls Takeover, was coordinated by the UN and aimed to ensure that people living with disabilities were actively included in decision-making processes and that infrastructure development considered their unique needs. This experience deepened my understanding of human rights issues and reinforced my dedication to fostering inclusive policies.

MC: How do you juggle your time given your diverse professional lifestyle as well as your personal life?
Caroline Muwonda: I prioritize effective time management by setting clear goals and using a detailed schedule. I allocate specific times for work and personal activities, ensuring I maintain a balance. Flexibility is key, allowing me to adapt when unexpected tasks arise while still making time for family and self-care.

MC: What do you think Zimbabwe must improve in the area of media and free expression?
Caroline Muwonda: Zimbabwe must enhance media freedom by implementing legal reforms that protect journalists and promote independent reporting  ensuring the safety of journalists is crucial steps.

MC: l realized you are also public speaker, what do you usually speak about and which platforms do you use?
Caroline Muwonda: I primarily focus on science communication, academic mentorship, and health education. I speak at church conferences, organizational events, and utilize social media platforms like LinkedIn, TikTok, and Facebook to reach a broader audience. My goal is to inspire and educate younger generations in these topics.

MC: What do you understand about creative justice and free speech?
Caroline Muwonda: ln my own understanding Creative justice is the  combinations of artistic expression of one's mind  with social justice aiming promote change and advocate for the underexpressed voices while free speech is the right to express opinions openly without considering any implications after.

MC: Do you have any of your work published here in Zimbabwe or abroad?
Caroline Muwonda: While I haven't published formal works in Zimbabwe or abroad, I actively share my insights and educational content on my Social media platforms through posts and videos.

MC: Have you ever won any awards?
Caroline Muwonda: No l haven't received any awards in  my areas of work.

I am a student at Midlands State University, pursuing a degree in Applied Biosciences and Biotechnology. My academic journey is fueled by a growing passion for antimicrobial resistance, which I believe is crucial for public health. I am also a former Junior Member of Parliament, where I dedicated my efforts to advocating for women and girl child empowerment.
In addition to my studies, I am the founder of the One Health Reform Alliance Initiative, where I work to promote interdisciplinary approaches to health and environmental challenges. As a global public health enthusiast, I engage in various roles including public speaker, spoken word poet, and climate change ambassador. I recently had the honor of being appointed as the African Federation Country Chapter Representative.l also focus on effective science communication both on physical and social networks.
My work and passions align closely with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). I aspire to contribute to scientific literature by writing journals, research papers, and other scholarly works to ensure our generation moves toward a sustainable future.
Outside my professional endeavors, I am a sociable person who enjoys adventure. I have a keen interest in watching wildlife documentaries, which fuels my curiosity about nature. My strong Christian background influences my values and drives my commitment to making a positive impact in my community and beyond.