Despite being told by her teacher that applying to Oxford University was a waste of time because she “wasn’t good enough,” a determined Vee Varaidzo Kativhu defied the odds. Instead of letting those words define her future, Vee pursued her academic dreams relentlessly. Today, that same student is making headlines for earning a honorary doctorate at a remarkably young age.
Her inspiring journey from doubt to success serves as a powerful reminder that perseverance and self-belief can overcome even the harshest criticisms, proving that no dream is too ambitious when matched with hard work and determination.
SONIA OKERE spotlights the inspiring journey of this incredible young educational icon
How it started
Vee Varaidzo Kativhu’s journey began in Zimbabwe, where she was born into a humble family. Tragically, at the age of two, her life changed forever when she lost her father. Her widowed mother had to work tirelessly to support the family. Vee often recalls how she attended public schools and depended on free school meals to survive. Despite the struggles, she found solace in her faith, and kept praying fervently for a brighter future.
At the age of six, her family moved to the United Kingdom and adjusting to a new environment was challenging. She had to learn to speak and read English from scratch. Being a black African, she felt shy and introverted. While her peers were making friends and catching fun, Vee was always in the library where she dedicated her time to studying.
At the age of six, her family moved to the United Kingdom and adjusting to a new environment was challenging
Her mother was her biggest supporter and inspiration. Seeing how much Vee loved to read, she saved pennies to buy old books since they couldn’t afford to buy new ones. Those small sacrifices nurtured Vee’s passion for learning and laid the groundwork for her incredible journey ahead.
Education
Vee attended Dudley College, where she excelled greatly in her academics. Thereafter, she applied to some of the best universities and was accepted at the prestigious University of Oxford. There, she obtained a degree in Classical Archaeology and Ancient History.
People with goals always succeed because they know where they’re going. Despite juggling schooling and working long hours at McDonald’s, Vee successfully graduated with distinctions. She also earned a Master of Education in International Education Policy from Harvard University.
She didn’t stop her educational pursuit there. Just recently, at only 26, she achieved yet another remarkable milestone by becoming the youngest recipient of an honorary doctorate degree from the University of Bradford. She also secured a PhD fully funded scholarship at Claremont Graduate University, USA.
Her organization equips young people with tools and skills to embrace their unique talents and utilize life-challenging opportunities
While narrating how she achieved all this, Vee said her secrets are hard work, perseverance, and determination.
“The funny part is a few years ago, my teacher told me I shouldn’t even bother applying to Oxford University because I wasn’t good enough. However, today, I’m in the news for becoming a young doctorate degree holder,” she said.
Empowered by Vee Community
In 2017, this young lady launched her YouTube channel to share her experiences as an Oxford university student. She said her primary aim was to help others navigate the educational landscape. However, what started as a small project has blossomed into a vibrant community of over 277,000 subscribers, all eager to learn from Vee’s insights on applying to top schools around the world.
As her audience grew, so did her ambition to make a bigger impact. This drive led her to create Empowered by Vee, a nonprofit organization dedicated to hosting workshops and seminars both online and at universities. Her organization equips young people with the tools and skills they need to confidently embrace their unique talents, and utilize life-challenging opportunities.
What’s most inspiring about Vee’s work is how she has turned her own journey into a lifeline for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Thanks to her organization, thousands of young people now have the support and guidance they need to pursue their dreams.
In 2023, she was named one of BBC’s 100 Influential Women, alongside Michelle Obama, for her global impact on education and female empowerment
Awards and legacy
Vee has received numerous accolades for her impactful work as an education activist. An example is the prestigious Diana Award from Prince Harry and Prince William for her outstanding contributions to youth advocacy. She was also recognized as a Rare Rising Star in the UK by Members of Parliament and honored with the title of Diversity Champion by Oxford’s Vice Chancellor. In 2023, she was named one of BBC’s 100 Influential Women, alongside Michelle Obama, for her global impact on education and female empowerment. This year, among other awards, she was recognized by British Vogue as a 2024 Force For Change.
Despite being so young, Vee dedicates her time to education-focused charities and actively serves as an ambassador for organizations like United World Schools, CAMFED, and GirlUp Zimbabwe. She also collaborates with other changemakers, including Malala Yousafzai, to address the alarming statistic of 130 million girls worldwide who are out of school. The mission is to ensure every girl has access to quality education.
