23 year old Purity Manyowa takes on the fight for equality
At 23, Purity Manyowa is using advocacy to stand up for young people, women and communities affected by inequality and limited opportunities.
Her journey into humanitarian work began with experiences from the communities where she grew up. Moving between Trelawney and Budiriro exposed her to different social and economic realities and gave her an understanding of the challenges faced by underserved communities.
Speaking to The List Awards by Identities Media Tv, Manyowa explained how growing up between Trelawney and Budiriro exposed her to different social and economic realities, helping her understand the impact of inequality and limited opportunities
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In 2021, she joined Ignite Youth Organisation, where she discovered the value of mentorship, leadership development and community engagement in transforming young lives.
“That experience inspired me to dedicate myself to promoting gender equality, empowering young people, and creating opportunities that enable communities to reach their full potential,” she said.
Manyowa now serves as Director of Programs at Ignite Youth Organisation and Gender Secretary for the Student Christian Movement of Zimbabwe (SCMZ). She is also studying Electronic Commerce at the Harare Institute of Technology.
Over the past six years, she has been involved in youth empowerment, gender advocacy and community development initiatives across Zimbabwe. At Ignite Youth Organisation, she has helped coordinate leadership and mentorship programmes supporting young people to reach their potential. Through SCMZ, Manyowa has facilitated eight leadership and advocacy events at institutions including the University of Zimbabwe, Harare Institute of Technology and Chinhoyi University of Technology.
Her work has also focused on menstrual health awareness and creating safe spaces for girls, earning her the Girl Empowerment Award in 2025. She has also supported environmental sustainability initiatives through the Flames and Lilies Climate Initiative.
Manyowa described her selection as a finalist for the Human Rights Award as “a great honour and recognition of the journey, dedication, and service” that have shaped her work.
She said the recognition also validates the efforts of the communities, volunteers and organisations that have supported her mission.
For Manyowa, the award is not simply about recognition. She hopes it can help amplify initiatives focused on youth empowerment, gender equality and community development while inspiring other young people to believe they can create meaningful change.
“Regardless of the outcome, my commitment to humanitarian service, youth empowerment, and gender equality remains unchanged,” she said.
“My focus will always be on creating sustainable change, empowering communities, and helping young people realise their potential.”
For Manyowa, the greatest achievement remains making a lasting difference in the lives of others.