The Zimbabwe National Boxing and Wrestling Control Board (ZNBWCB) used the recently ended National Youth Empowerment Strategy Symposium to raise awareness about career opportunities in professional boxing and wrestling.
As the official governing body for boxing and wrestling in Zimbabwe, the Board is mandated to promote, regulate and develop combat sport disciplines across the country. During the symposium, which ended yesterday, officials engaged with young people, encouraging them to consider boxing not just as a sport, but also as a viable professional career path.
Harare Provincial Coordinator for the National Boxing and Wrestling Control Board, Paula Marudze, said the Board was committed to supporting youths who show interest in combat sports.
“We support those who are into combat sporting. By combat sporting, we mean boxing and wrestling. We would like to raise awareness that one can venture into boxing as a profession,” she said.
Marudze said although some people participate in boxing for fitness or recreation, the sport offers far-reaching opportunities for those who take it seriously.
“Some do it for fun and fitness. I recommend the youth to try it because it can open doors to national and international recognition,” she said.
She added that boxing not only promotes physical fitness, but also instills discipline, focus and determination among young people. Through its awareness programmes, the Board is helping youths turn their sporting talent into meaningful livelihoods.
Local boxing coach, Issa Phiri, who runs the Issa Fight Boxing Club, said boxing was playing a crucial role in keeping young people away from drugs and crime.
“We have professional and amateur boxers at our club and we host tournaments for both groups. Boxers are benefiting a lot. The sport is keeping youth busy and helping them to stay away from drugs,” he said.
Phiri said boxing also teaches values that extend beyond the ring. “We train the youth to be disciplined and dedicated to changing their lives and communities. Many of our boxers have found purpose through the sport and are now mentoring others,” he said.
The ZNBWCB continues to partner with schools, communities and youth organisations to identify and nurture talent across the country. Through platforms like the Youth Empowerment Symposium, the Board hopes to inspire a new generation of athletes capable of representing Zimbabwe on regional and international stages.
