Dr Varaidzo Kativhu, affectionately known as Dr Vee, was born in Zimbabwe and raised in the UK by her single mother. Growing up in a low-income environment, she faced significant challenges, especially around education. In Zimbabwe, economic hardships meant that families like hers had to prioritize survival over schooling. Overcrowded classrooms, underpaid teachers, and limited book access were the norm, making education a distant dream for many children.
Despite these barriers, Varaidzo’s mother understood the transformative power of education and took on the role of her first teacher. Determined to give her daughter a better future, she used whatever resources she could find—old newspapers, magazines, or any written material at hand. These modest tools sparked Varaidzo’s curiosity and fueled her desire to learn. Her mother patiently taught her to read, encouraging her to practice every day, even when resources were scarce.
As Varaidzo’s reading skills grew, so did her hunger for knowledge. She sought books wherever she could, borrowing from neighbours or scouring local markets. Through this relentless pursuit of learning, Varaidzo developed a profound love for education, determined to build a better future for herself and her family. Against all odds, her passion for reading became the foundation for her remarkable journey of growth and achievement.
The Move to the UK
Varaidzo Kativhu’s life took a significant turn when she left behind the struggles of Zimbabwe and moved to the United Kingdom (UK) at seven. While the move presented new opportunities, it also brought its own set of challenges. She had to quickly adapt to a new country, a different culture, and a more rigorous education system. As an immigrant, Varaidzo often felt like an outsider. Her accent, background, and experiences set her apart from her peers, leading to feelings of isolation and insecurity.
Cultural adjustments were complex. Everything from the food to the way of life in the UK was unfamiliar. The cost of living was also higher, and her family faced economic hardships. Her mother, already struggling in Zimbabwe, was now under immense pressure to provide for them in the UK. Financial strain meant Varaidzo lacked access to resources many of her classmates took for granted, such as private tutors, extracurricular activities, and even basic school supplies.
The education system in school was more advanced than what she was used to, and she worked twice as hard to keep up. At times, Varaidzo felt overwhelmed, doubting her abilities and battling feelings of loneliness. Yet, despite these challenges, she resolved to succeed. Driven by her family’s sacrifices and determination, Varaidzo was committed to making the most of the opportunities before her, even when the road was far from easy.
Varaidzo Kativhu’s journey into two Ivy League Universities.
Varaidzo Kativhu’s relentless pursuit of education led her to two prestigious Ivy League universities, where she excelled in her studies and became a global advocate for youth empowerment and education. Her dedication and perseverance paid off when she was accepted into one of the world’s most prestigious institutions, the University of Oxford. There, she pursued a Classical Archaeology and Ancient History Degree at Lady Margaret Hall.
However, while her family was supportive, they could not fully fund her education. Determined not to let financial barriers hold her back, Varaidzo navigated her way through university by securing financial aid, scholarships, and bursaries. Oxford University offered several programs to support students from underprivileged backgrounds, and Varaidzo’s impressive academic performance earned her the necessary assistance. She also proactively sought out additional scholarships and grants to help cover the cost of her education.
During her time at Oxford, Varaidzo strongly desired to share her experiences. This led her to start a YouTube channel named Miss Varz, where she documented her journey and encouraged others facing similar challenges.
After completing her undergraduate degree, she pursued a Master’s in International Education Policy at Harvard University (USA), further reinforcing her commitment to educational equity. By July 2024, Varaidzo had achieved yet another remarkable milestone. She became the youngest to receive an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Bradford, a moment she proudly shared on her Instagram page, garnering over 83,000 reactions from her supportive community.
Dr Vee’s Impact and Legacy
Now a renowned Girls’ Education Activist and passionate YouTuber, Varaidzo (Vee) Kativhu is dedicated to helping girls access education and empowering underprivileged youth. Through her YouTube channel, with over 500,000 followers, she advocates for education, youth empowerment, and equal opportunities, using her platform to inspire countless young people. Her journey has resonated with thousands across the globe, making her a role model for aspiring students and advocates alike.
In 2018, she founded Empowered by Vee, a charity organization that supports students aged 16-25 from disadvantaged backgrounds. With her Empowerment Workshop Model, Vee organizes skill-based workshops to equip students with practical tools for personal and academic success. Her efforts have earned her numerous accolades, including being named a British Vogue Force for Change in 2024 and one of BBC’s 100 Influential Women alongside Michelle Obama in 2023. She also received the prestigious Diana Award in 2022 and was selected as a United Nations Young Leader for the Sustainable Development Goals. Her first book, Empowered, was published in 2021, and she remains focused on mentoring young people and promoting education as a tool for empowerment.
Varaido continues to host high-level educational events globally, collaborating with esteemed organizations like UNESCO, UNICEF, and the Global Partnership for Education. Her legacy of activism and leadership is a testament to her commitment to ensuring every young person, regardless of their background, has access to quality education and opportunities for success.
