Staff Writer
Against all odds and in a remarkable demonstration of courage, determination and resilience, a young girl from Epworth Harare Shylet Shumba has emerged as one of the inspiring stories of the 2026 Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke after cycling all the way to Zvishavane.
During the on going three-day cycling event that together cyclists from different parts of Zimbabwe to traverse mineral-rich Great Dyke, Shylet’s participation is a powerful reminder that age and gender should never be barriers to pursuing one’s dreams.
Her journey to Zvishavane is not simply about completing a cycling challenge, it is about pushing beyond perceived limitations, challenging difficulties of the road, proving that determination can take one further than imagined.
For a young girl to take on such a demanding journey, covering challenging terrain and enduring the physical demands of the road, was a remarkable achievement.
Speaking about what inspired her to participate, Shylet said:
“I’m motivated by the desire to challenge myself and prove that being a young girl does not mean I cannot achieve something big, on this journey to Zvishavane I want other young girls out there to believe in themselves, pursue their dreams and never be afraid of challenges” Shylet said
She acknowledged that the journey comes with its fair share of difficulties, particularly the physical demands of cycling over long distances.
“The road is not easy, there are moments where I feel tired, my body aching and the distance seemed too long. The challenging terrain and the long hours on the bicycle tested my endurance, but I will keep reminding myself why I started this journey” said Shylet Shumba
Her achievement brought a refreshing dimension to the 2026 Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke, demonstrating the importance of creating platforms where young people can discover their potential and participate in activities that promote health, confidence and personal development.
Beyond cycling, there is mission to change lives, beyond the kilometres covered and the cyclists’ determination lies a much bigger purpose.
According to Minex chairman Munyaradzi Hwengwere, the Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke is not merely a sporting event but an initiative designed to create meaningful social impact, particularly through supporting academically gifted but underprivileged children.
Hwengwere said the tour seeks to bridge the gap between the mining sector’s wealth and the needs of surrounding communities, ensuring that the benefits of Zimbabwe’s mineral resources also translate into opportunities for ordinary people.
Speaking at the launch of the 2026 edition, Hwengwere emphasised that the initiative was about changing lives through education.
“We are not riding for fun, this cycling event is going to assist the underprivileged children in the country,” he said.
He revealed that the Gifted Children Foundation had supported 159 students through school fees assistance, helping talented children from disadvantaged backgrounds access educational opportunities.
The initiative reflects a broader philosophy that mining companies and the business community have a responsibility to contribute to the development of the communities in which they operate.
For Hwengwere, the tour provides an opportunity to demonstrate that the mining industry can be more than an economic contributor, it can also be a partner in community development and social transformation.
Supported by title sponsor Nedbank and various partners from the mining and business sectors, the event promotes physical wellness, cycling, tourism, environmental awareness and community development.
At the heart of the initiative is the Gifted Children Foundation, which supports talented but underprivileged learners whose educational ambitions are often threatened by financial challenges.
As cyclists pedal their way across the Great Dyke, Shylet Shumba’s story adds another important message to the event that opportunities should be created for everyone, regardless of age or gender.
Her ride to Zvishavane is a celebration of courage and determination, while the wider mission of the tour reminds participants that the greatest achievement is not necessarily reaching the finishing line, but making a difference in the lives of others.
For Shylet, the destination was Zvishavane, for the Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke, the destination is a better future for the next generation.