In celebration of the 5 year anniversary of British Vogue’s record breaking issue entitled Forces for Change, which saw 15 stars grace the cover, the publication invited their original Forces for Change – to nominate their champions for 2024 and beyond.
Nominated for this exclusive list by American actor Yara Shahidi, is Zimbabwean education activist Varaidzo “Vee” Kativhu. Born in Zimbabwe but now based in the UK, Vee has made it her mission is to make higher education an achievable goal for all. As a Girls’ Education Activist and YouTube visionary, she leverages her platform of over 500,000 followers to advocate for youth empowerment, educational access, and equal opportunities
“Vee Kativhu is a tireless advocate for our global community to have access to a quality education, with a specific focus in empowering young women to pursue their dreams. Where others may be overwhelmed by the intense schedule of giving UN speeches, building schools, all while pursuing a PhD, Vee finds joy in her personal pursuit of education and her ability to be of service.” – Yara Shahidi
An alumna of both Oxford and Harvard universities, Vee is celebrated for her significant contributions to diversity and female empowerment. In July, 2024 she became the youngest recipient of an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Bradford and was honoured as one of BBC’s 100 influential Women alongside Michelle Obama in 2023.
Vee has received numerous accolades, including the Diana Legacy Award from Prince William and Prince Harry, the Rare Rising Star Award from UK Parliament members, and the Diversity Champion Award from Oxford’s Vice-Chancellor. Vee is a distinguished keynote speaker, having hosted various high-level education events globally with UNESCO, UNICEF, Education For All Foundation, World’s Largest Lesson, and Global Partnership Education (GPE).
