The story behind Sage Clubs
As members of the Association for Tourism Hwange, we found ourselves asking the same question in different meetings: How do we meaningfully involve young people in the life of this community? How do we move beyond occasional outreach and create something lasting that builds confidence, responsibility and connection to place?
Those conversations led to the formation of the ATH Education Committee, with a clear purpose - to create practical, school-based opportunities that help young people develop leadership, community awareness, and environmental stewardship in ways that feel relevant to their lives. From that work, Sage Clubs emerged.
To prepare for life’s challenges, young people need more than good grades - they need confidence, purpose and transferable skills that help them navigate uncertainty and contribute meaningfully to their communities. Sage Clubs are designed to meet that need.
Based in schools and supported by ATH, Sage Clubs focus on learning by doing. Rather than relying only on theoretical lessons, students gain hands-on experience through leadership roles, service projects, teamwork, and reflection. The simple, but powerful aim is to nurture young people who grow their skills, care for their environment, and work collaboratively to strengthen their schools and communities.
In practice, Sage Clubs give students real responsibility. Members plan activities, build things, make decisions, coordinate with peers and mentors, and reflect on what they are learning along the way. This shift, from passive participation to active contribution,builds confidence and a sense of ownership that extends beyond the classroom.
Youth development research consistently shows that when young people are trusted with responsibility, supported by mentorship, and given space to reflect, their sense of purpose deepens. They are more likely to stay engaged in school and community life, and better equipped to adapt to complex social and environmental realities. Sage Clubs draw on these proven principles, adapting them to the Hwange context in ways that are practical, accessible, and rooted in local priorities.
The eight Sage Clubs that have been established in Hwange will create a structured environment where communication, teamwork, critical thinking, creativity, and community awareness are everyday practices rather than abstract ideals. Through student-led debates, environmental campaigns, literacy initiatives, and financial skills workshops, members learn to test ideas, listen to different perspectives and develop their own leadership styles.
Looking ahead, Sage Clubs aim to expand into more schools across and beyond the Hwange region. Through initiatives such as Sage Mentors, Sage Eco Explorers, Sage Career Discovery Days, Sage Readers and the Sage Debate Series, young people are being equipped with tools that extend far beyond school. Whether they become conservation advocates, community leaders, entrepreneurs, tourism professionals or engaged citizens, Sage Clubs are helping them build the confidence and capability to contribute meaningfully to Hwange’s future.