💡 Leadership Lessons from “Muzukuru Zvawava kuenda kuHarare”OR (DIASPORA) – Wisdom Wrapped in Verse

By Lloyd | L2M Coaching & Mentoring

In a world rushing toward modernity and rapid change, traditional African literature still offers timeless truths. One such treasure is the Shona poem “Muzukuru Zvawava kuenda kuHarare” by C. Bera. On the surface, it’s a heartfelt farewell—an elder offering advice to a young relative heading off to the city. But as I read and reflected on it, I realised: this is more than poetry. It’s a leadership masterclass cloaked in cultural storytelling.

Let’s unpack seven essential leadership lessons embedded in this powerful poem.

1. Lead with Foresight & Wisdom

“Harare ichakusunga mbiradzakondo yokurasira mudondo…”

The elder warns of the seductive traps of city life. In leadership, foresight is a gift. Great leaders anticipate the consequences of choices—both for themselves and their teams. They look beyond the now and equip others to face what lies ahead.

Leadership Insight: True mentorship involves truth-telling, not just motivation. Don’t shield others from reality—prepare them for it.

2. Let Your Values Travel With You

“Sungira tsika dzako dzoKuno uende nadzo…”

The poem urges the young man to carry his cultural values with him. For leaders, the same holds true: don’t leave your principles behind when you step into new roles or spaces.

Leadership Insight: Your values are your compass. When everything shifts, they keep you steady.

3. Avoid Performative Leadership

“Don’t go to school and then come back with pride,

Saying “Yes, yes, filiminin”uchigutsurirawo musoro…”

In a sharp rebuke, the elder mocks empty pride and showmanship. Leadership isn't about sounding smart or looking the part—it's about being real, responsible, and results-driven.

Leadership Insight: Substance beats show every time. Don't let image replace impact.

4. Protect Your People from Pitfalls

“Vanokusvukira wakasvinura…”

City life is painted as full of cunning people and traps. Likewise, leadership requires protective vision. Leaders are guardians of culture, clarity, and emotional safety.

Leadership Insight: Anticipate harm so your team doesn’t have to walk into it blindly.

5. Don’t Let Money Define You

“Mari haichengetetswi mubhawa…”

Money isn’t evil, but a blind pursuit of it can derail both individuals and organisations. The poem reminds us that legacy is built through purpose, not partying.

Leadership Insight: Lead with vision, not greed. People follow purpose, not profit margins.

6. Stay Rooted and Humble

“Ziva kuti tikakugurutsa kuno upenyu hwako hunoswinya…”

Knowing where you come from is power. Even in modern leadership, remembering your journey builds empathy, humility, and authenticity.

Leadership Insight: Your roots are not your weakness—they're your wisdom.

7. Speak Truth, Even If It Stings

“Matatu andinokusiiya nawo ndeaya...”

The poem ends with scars, not smiles—reminding us that advice is often ignored until pain teaches the same lesson. Good leaders don’t wait for pain to prove them right. They speak truth now, with courage and care.

Leadership Insight: Be the voice of wisdom, even if it makes you unpopular.

🌍 Final Thoughts

Muzukuru Zvawava kuenda kuHarare isn't just a cultural gem—it’s a call to grounded leadership. In a world full of noise, fast money, and surface-level success, the poem is a reminder to lead from values, protect your people, and walk with humility.

Whether you're mentoring a young professional, leading a team, or guiding your own family—remember: the best leadership is rooted in love, wisdom, and truth.

Want more leadership insights like this?📩 Join the L2M Leadership Circle or book a 1:1 session today at L2MCoaching.com