Finding success against the odds
When Arshar Jimu lost his eyesight at the age of 22, it was hard for him to imagine a future where he would be able to accomplish his dreams.
The 29-year-old has shown the world that anything is possible with determination and positivity.
Growing up in a small town in Midlands Zimbabwe, Arshar didn’t have access to many opportunities or resources. But from a young age, he developed a love for fashion and beauty, even though they struggled to see the world around them. It wasn’t until he was a teenager that he discovered a way to turn his passion into a career.
“My educational journey has not been without its challenges. I’ve faced obstacles like a lack of resources and support, as well as feelings of fear and self-doubt. But through perseverance and determination, I’ve been able to overcome these challenges and have now set my sights on using my education to help others in similar situations. I’m dedicated to making a positive difference in the world through my work,” he said.
Arshar is enrolled at Zimbabwe Open University where he is currently doing a bachelor’s degree in Development Studies. He was the second runner-up model in an event that occurred at his school last month.
Despite his disability, he is more persevering and resilient in the face of adversity, and a reminder that everyone has the power to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
“I’m very lucky to have a supportive community around me. When I need help, there are always people willing to lend a hand. Even when it comes to challenges like getting access to materials that are not easily accessible to someone with a visual impairment, I know I can count on my community to help. In turn, I try to bring a positive and friendly attitude to every interaction I have, which has helped me build strong relationships and connections. I truly feel like my community has my back,” said Arshar.
With the support of his family and friends, he was able to find a way to make his dream a reality. Arshar is working hard to find ways to adapt to the challenges of visual impairment and eventually found a
way to overcome the challenges as well as find sponsors who will uplift his career.
To pursue his dream of becoming a model, Arshar is still trying to find ways to adapt to the world around modeling and also hopes that one day he will be able to use his other senses to navigate the world.
Arshar’s journey is a reminder that no matter what challenges we face, we can achieve our dreams if we never give up. His determination and talent will open doors for others and will continue to inspire generations to come.
He strongly believes that through modeling he is going to advocate for people with disabilities. He has high hopes that one day he will open an organization that will help people such as him.
We all have the power to change the world, no matter what obstacles stand in our way.
