Hip Hop Boy’s Home Gym: A Sanctuary Against Drug abuse

Youth Interactive Correspondent

In Glen Norah, Zimbabwe, a remarkable 14-year-old artist is making waves in his community through both music and activism.

Zimbabwe Allan Nyashanu Midzi, known as Lil Dreay, has transformed his home gym into a vibrant sanctuary that attracts local teens and helps them steer clear of substance abuse. 

His story is a testament to the power of creativity, community, and the importance of supportive relationships in the lives of young people. 

Zimbabwe’s musical journey began at an early age. 

At just nine years old, he recorded his first songs using his mother’s phone, driven by a passion for hip hop that seemed to flow through him naturally. 

His talent was first noticed by a family friend, the well-known musician Nhapi, who was visiting Zimbabwe’s father. 

During this visit, he spotted Zimbabwe playing an acoustic guitar, which sparked a connection that would change the young artist’s life. 

Impressed by his enthusiasm, Nhapi encouraged him, leading to generous donations of musical instruments that would aid in his development as an artist. 

Following Nhapi’s lead, Zimbabwe received an electronic guitar from Tryson Chimbetu, another local music legend, and a Yamaha 12-stringed guitar from the renowned David Bhika. 

These gifts not only fuelled his passion for music but also provided him with the tools to express himself creatively. 

Born on May 29, 2009 at Rutsanana Clinic in Harare, Zimbabwe, he quickly became known for his magnetic personality and infectious energy, drawing peers to him like a magnet. 

As Zimbabwe honed his skills, he realized that music was not just a personal passion but a way to connect with others and make a difference in their lives. 

His home gym became a gathering place for local teens, a space where they could come together to work out, socialise, and engage in positive activities. 

In an era where drug abuse poses a significant threat to youth, Zimbabwe’s gym offers a much-needed refuge. Zimbabwe’s elder brother, ‘Mukoma Bvirarira’, who currently resides in the UK, emphasizes the importance of maintaining close social ties with teens to combat drug abuse effectively. 

He believes that understanding what young people enjoy and aspire to is crucial for guiding them away from harmful habits. 

“Teens’ drug abuses are very easy to eradicate by just being socially close to them, 24/7,” Mukoma stated during a recent gym session.”

“You will socially pick what they enjoy, hate, and dream to be as their parent or guardian. We must identify our kids’ talents rather than dismiss them as mischief.” 

Their mother, Pamela Midzi, shares in this vision, expressing her pride in the community that has formed around her son. “It is so exciting to see all these teens here, doing the best for their physical well-being in this child drug abuse era. Thank God, all these teens are now my children.” 

She describes how the gym has become a nurturing environment where teens can come together, support one another, and channel their energy into positive pursuits. 

Zimbabwe is often seen leading workout sessions, mixing fitness with fun, and creating an atmosphere that encourages everyone to participate. 

This vibrant community has created a ripple effect, inspiring other young people to engage in healthy activities and pursue their interests. 

Whether it’s through music, exercise, or simply being part of a supportive group, the gym serves as a powerful antidote to the pressures that many teens face today. 

As Zimbabwe balances his time between fitness, school, and music training at church, his dedication to his peers and community shines through. 

The unwavering support from his family has been instrumental in this journey, proving that a strong support system can lead to meaningful change. 

In a world where distractions and negative influences are ever-present, Zimbabwe’s story stands as a beacon of hope. 

His home gym is more than just a place to work out; it is a sanctuary that fosters creativity, camaraderie, and resilience among the youth of Glen Norah. 

Through his passion for music and fitness, Zimbabwe is not only shaping his own future but also inspiring a generation to dream bigger and live healthier.