Crowned Mr Deaf Zimbabwe 2013, Marvin Mukuyu has turned his platform into a powerful voice for advocacy, while pursuing his passions in rugby, music, and design—proving that identity is not a limitation, but a source of strength.

My Afrika Magazine reporter Lingiwe Sifelani (LS) spoke with Marvin Mukuyu (MM) to gain insight into his passions and the work he has undertaken so far.

LS: Your Facebook artist page’s profile reads, ‘Mr. Deaf Zimbabwe 2013, Deaf Power, Deaf Pride, Rugby, Music, Design. There is a powerful statement that says ‘Disability is not a limitation, it’s society’s perception that must change. Kindly run us through who you are, your passions, and your work so far.
MM: My name is Marvin Mukuyu. I am proudly deaf, and I stand for Deaf Power and Deaf Pride. I was honoured as Mr Deaf Zimbabwe 2013. My passions are rugby, music, design, and advocacy.

What makes my journey special is that I have done many things by myself. I trained myself, pushed myself, and stayed disciplined without depending on much help. This is because I strongly believe that as a deaf person, I am capable. I wanted to prove—not just to myself, but to the world—that being deaf does not mean you cannot achieve.

Through my work, I aim to change how people see the deaf community. I use my talents in sport, music, and creativity to show that deaf individuals are powerful, talented, and able to succeed. My life is a message to help people understand, respect, and include the deaf.

LS: As a creative who happens to be deaf, what challenges did you face in trying to get your message across? Please share your experiences.
MM: One of the biggest challenges I have faced is a lack of financial support. I have not had sponsors to help take my work to a higher level or to help share my message with the world. Because of this, it has been difficult to grow my projects.

There are many things I want to do, like starting a business, organizing deaf music concerts, and hosting events that promote and support the deaf community in Zimbabwe. These initiatives need funding, and without support, progress is slow. Despite this, I have continued to push forward using my own resources. I invest in myself step by step, doing what I can to show people what deaf individuals are capable of. I am committed to fighting for a better future for the deaf community so they can achieve their goals.

I strongly believe that one day, when financial support and sponsorship come, everything will change—not just for me, but for the deaf community in Zimbabwe, across Africa, and even the world.

LS: How long can it take for someone to learn sign language?
MM: It depends on the person. Basic communication can take a few months if you practice regularly. To become fluent, it can take one to two years or more. The key is consistency and practice with deaf people.

LS: You are an advocate of deaf awareness in the community. What achievements can you point out in terms of inclusion and personal growth?
MM: I have made progress in raising awareness about the deaf community and showing that deaf individuals are capable of achieving their goals. I have grown in confidence, leadership, and purpose.

With financial support, I believe I can achieve more. I want to start my own graphic design and printing company, which can generate income to support deaf community projects in Zimbabwe. This will help reduce dependence on sponsors and create long-term empowerment.

LS: You have a music video titled ‘Let there be light’, and also where you preach using sign language.  What other tools do you incorporate in raising awareness and changing people’s lives?
MM: I launched a sign language music album called “Let There Be Light”, the first of its kind in Zimbabwe, available on YouTube.  I funded everything myself—from videography to editing—because I wanted to show the world what deaf people can do. We planned more albums, but financial challenges stopped the project. I also love preaching the Gospel of God through sign language because I know my purpose and identity. I use preaching, music, and visual storytelling to inspire and change lives.

LS: You mentioned Deaf Rugby. Please tell us who initiated it and why it’s important in the deaf community.
MM: My journey in rugby started when I was young. I trained at Harare Sports Club with Red Lions Rugby, playing together with hearing players. This taught me inclusion and teamwork.

I never imagined I would become the President of Zimbabwe Deaf Rugby. Around 2021, I was elected to lead deaf rugby for both men and women. Since then, we have been growing slowly, although we still face financial challenges and a lack of sponsorship. This year, there is the World Deaf Rugby Championship in Tokyo, Japan (October–November). We hope Zimbabwe Deaf Rugby can participate, and we are appealing for support to raise funds.

LS: What other ways are you working on to conscentise the masses?
MM: I create short videos for social media and share inspirational messages using my pictures and life journey. My goal is to inspire deaf people to believe in themselves and follow their dreams. I believe my story can change mindsets and improve the future of the deaf community in Zimbabwe.

LS: Which distinct message do you think your life preaches to the world?
MM: My life preaches messages through sign language—not just my own ideas, but messages meant to change lives. I use sign language as a voice to inspire, teach, and connect people. My message is about breaking barriers, understanding, and showing that sign language is powerful and can transform lives.

LS: When you look at Zimbabwe and the world at large, is there a gap that needs filling to ensure the deaf community’s needs are met?
MM:Yes, there is still a gap in Zimbabwe and the world. We need more sign language interpreters, better access to education, and more inclusion in workplaces and services. Many people still do not understand deaf culture. We need awareness, acceptance, and equal opportunities so deaf people can reach their full potential.

LS: Please share other information you feel are important, first to the deaf community and the whole of humanity.
MM:To the deaf community: never give up. Believe in yourself, work hard, and stay strong. Your silence is not weakness—you are powerful.

To the world: please include and respect deaf people. Learn sign language and give equal opportunities in education, sports, and work.

My message is unity, respect, and inclusion for all.