Nicole Risimati: A Shining Light in Chiredzi By Benedict Bvunyenge

Meet Nicole Risimati, a spirited 5-year-old girl living with albinism. She is currently enrolled in ECD B at Machoka Primary School in Chiredzi District. Nicole is cheerful, bright, and full of potential—an intelligent student with a future as radiant as her smile.

Every day, Nicole walks 3 kilometers to school, a journey that would tire many—but not her. Her determination to learn shines through in the classroom, where she continues to excel despite the odds.

On the 24th of June, she had a very special day. Nicole, accompanied by Kuyenda RYC’s Benedict Bvunyenge, attended Malilangwe Trust’s inaugural netball tournament themed “It’s Better to Build a Girl Than Repair a Woman.” Though young, Nicole sat alongside older girls and women as they listened to empowering speeches from inspiring leaders: the Provincial Education Director, female school heads, Teach For Zimbabwe representatives, and even the local chief.

The Challenges She Faces

Visual Challenges

Nicole experiences difficulty seeing the chalkboard in class, which made learning a struggle. Thanks to the school’s efforts, she now uses a small board placed closer to her, which helps her follow along. However, a proper pair of prescription spectacles would make an even greater difference to her learning experience.

Skin Sensitivity

As a child living with albinism, Nicole requires regular application of sunscreen to protect her skin. She lives with her grandparents, who do their best to provide her with sunscreen lotions. However, due to limited resources, they are not always able to afford it.

There is a growing need to connect Nicole with organisations that support children living with albinism—organisations that can help provide her with the essentials she needs to live and learn safely, with dignity and confidence.

A Call for Support

Nicole’s story is one of resilience and hope. With the right support—spectacles for her vision, consistent access to sunscreen, and inclusive learning materials—she can thrive and reach for her dreams. Her journey reminds us that every child deserves a fair chance, and sometimes, just a little help can go a long way.