Learning cycles at the Matibi Nook
11th Learning Cycle · 4 January 2027 – 28 May 2027 · Registration open
Building futures through collaborative learning and skill development
Our Vision for Matibi Community Development
Friends for Matibi envisions a thriving, self-sustaining Matibi Ward where all residents have access to quality education, healthcare, and economic opportunities through the Matibi Nook Learning Center. Through community-led development, Matibi is becoming a model for rural transformation in Zimbabwe.
Our Values
Our Impact
Projects on the Ground
Our projects span Matibi and the surrounding communities — see them all on the map.
Latest News
Stay updated with our community impact stories and project progress
Renewing the Nook Hall
The Nook Hall at Matibi Nook Hub has been repainted and its electrical system upgraded with support from Friends for Matibi Association, creating a sa...
Journey into Greatness: Our 10th-Cycle PSS Camp on Film
Five days of teamwork, reflection and discovery: watch our new film from the 10th-cycle psychosocial support camp at Mafuramhepo Lakeside Resort.
“I Never Stopped Dreaming Big” Believe Moyo’s Journey from Challenges to Possibility
At 17, Believe Moyo knows that where you start does not have to determine where you end up.
Journey to Greatness: A Camp to Remember
There are moments in a learner’s journey that go beyond the familiar moments that challenge, inspire, bring people together, and create memories that...
Our Impact in Numbers
Measurable change through sustainable community development initiatives
Fungai Shoko
Nook Self-Learning Center Graduate
"My name is Fungai Shoko, born on December 18, 2006. I'm the eldest of five siblings. I joined the Nook after hearing about it from others in my village. At first, I had no clear direction, but I was surprised by the freedom and trust we were given. I explored welding, computers, and baking before discovering my passion for sewing. I learned to create hats, skirts, dresses, and children's clothes, often repurposing old garments. Now I can design for people of all ages and enjoy improving with each piece. I hope to continue growing in sewing and also learn welding in the next cycle."
Tendai Macheza
Nook Self-Learning Center Graduate
"My name is Tendai Macheza, I'm 15 and from a family of seven. I left school due to financial hardship after my mother became mentally ill. I learned about the Nook Hub through my father, a community worker, and joined in September 2023. The welcoming environment quickly became a safe space for me—I've never missed a day. After exploring different activities, I chose music production. Though working with a computer was new and challenging, I'm improving with practice. The support from peers and the life skills camp helped me build confidence and better understand myself. In the next cycle, I plan to keep developing my music skills despite limited winter time at home."
Fungai Mettler
"From 2020 to 2025, we worked closely together on the development and implementation of the "Nook" self-learning centers. We came to know Matibi as a reliable, goal-driven, and highly effective partner. Their use of funds was always purposeful and transparent, with a clear and consistent focus on local impact and long-term sustainability. What we appreciated just as much was their trustworthiness and openness to dialogue. Matibi welcomed feedback, remained flexible in process, and actively shaped the collaboration in a spirit of mutual respect and shared purpose. We strongly recommend Matibi as a thoughtful, committed, and action-oriented organization."
Albert Kesseli
"We value the open, transparent, and trustworthy collaboration with Friends for Matibi. Their projects are impact-oriented, sustainable, and regularly reviewed. All financial agreements are clearly documented, and reporting has always been reliable and timely. Despite challenging conditions in Zimbabwe, the association has achieved impressive progress over 20 years by empowering local staff, providing training, and closely monitoring implementation on the ground."
Our Team
Bridging communities across continents through shared commitment to sustainable development
Florence Kadungure
Women Empowerment Officer
Florence Kadungure champions womens empowerment initiatives in the Matibi community. She leads programs focused on education, skills development, and economic opportunities for women, helping to build stronger, more inclusive communities.
Gilbert Rupere
FFM Nook Innovation Lead
Innovation is made from people, people are at the heart of my work.
Simbarashe Mtandadzi
Permaculturist
Simbarashe Mtandadzi brings expertise in sustainable agriculture and permaculture to Friends for Matibi. He works with local farmers to implement environmentally friendly farming practices that improve yields while preserving the land for future generations.
Simbarashe Dube
Nook Officer
Simbarashe Dube oversees the Nook learning center operations, ensuring students have access to quality education and resources. His commitment to educational excellence helps provide opportunities for young people in the Matibi community.
Ashilline Pedzisai
Bookkeeping Officer
Ashilline Pedzisai serves as the Bookkeeping Officer for Friends for Matibi, ensuring accurate financial records and transparent resource management. Based in Zimbabwe, she brings essential financial expertise to support community development initiatives across Matibi Ward. Her meticulous attention to detail and commitment to financial accountability helps ensure that every donation and resource is properly tracked and utilized for maximum community impact.
Bridging Two Communities
Our unique partnership model connects Swiss expertise and resources with local knowledge and leadership in Zimbabwe, creating sustainable impact through genuine collaboration and mutual respect.
Our Sponsors & Partners
We are grateful for the support of our partners who share our vision of empowering communities in Zimbabwe.
Together We Make
Dreams Reality
Every donation is a seed of hope that grows into flourishing opportunities in Matibi. Your support transforms lives, strengthens communities, and builds a brighter future for all.
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SSL encrypted • Swiss non-profit • Tax deductible