Chigunduru Urges Youth to Fight for Goals, Not Seek Validation from Friends
HARARE – Accountant and business executive Peddy Chigunduru has urged high school students to set clear goals and fight for what they believe in, despite family hardships or lack of early academic success, saying success is shaped more by attitude and persistence than background.
Speaking Monday at The Avenues Clinic Father’s Day celebration attended by students from Mufakose 1 High, Harare High, Allan Wilson, and Prince Edward School, Chigunduru said his path to professional success was shaped by adversity, determination, and a clear refusal to give up.
“I never came first in class. I was always somewhere between number six and number 12,” he said. “But the only time I came first was at A-level, because I had set clear goals and I kept fighting. I remained focused.”
Growing up in a crowded home with nine children, living in three rooms, Chigunduru said he often had to study in the bush to escape noisy neighbors. Despite lacking mentors and guidance, he applied repeatedly to be allowed into the mathematics class at Hamilton High School – even with poor grades in the subject – and ended up topping the class.
“When you set your goals, don’t let financial or family limitations stop you,” he said. “Forget about friends. Friends come and go. Your goals are what matter.”
Chigunduru’s passion for accounting wasn’t immediate. He only pursued it after being persuaded by someone who recognized his potential. He went on to study accounting in South Africa and later worked with PricewaterhouseCoopers in Cape Town and a bank in Uganda.
“Most of my job offers have come by invitation,” he said. “If after five years in the workforce you’re still throwing around CVs, it means you haven’t built the right network.”
He warned students that many young people today risk squandering opportunities created by the sacrifices of their parents. “We’ve seen children of hardworking parents fall back into poverty because of bad influences and lack of focus,” he said.
Chigunduru emphasized the value of mentorship, saying he is available to guide aspiring accountants and help them pursue professional qualifications. “I’m willing to mentor you and help you get into the GCA route if you’re serious,” he said.
