The most educated country in Africa, Zimbabwe is a rich blend of traditional African heritage and European influences.

Kuzi Rusere, Linfield junior, gave his presentation on Oct.15 in Riley Hall. It was centered on the origins, history, and culture of Zimbabwe, a small landlocked country in the south of Africa.

“I come from a beautiful place, a place rich in cultural beliefs,” said Rusere.

Some of the pictures and information in the presentation contradicted the stereotypical views that people may have about a “traditional” African country.

Pictures of Harare, Rusere’s hometown, contain images of skyscrapers and modern buildings, not unlike the average American city. This is a stark contrast to the beautiful landscapes and wildlife that we are trained to think of when we think of Africa.

There are many examples of modern European influences throughout the country, particularly in the education system and democratic government structure.

The mass free education is a key reason why the country’s overall literacy rate is 90.7 percent.

English is the official language, but Shona is one of the more popular indigenous dialects that is still fairly commonly taught and spoken.

Other traditional African aspects of culture have maintained a surprisingly strong influence in the modern day society of Zimbabwe.

One of these aspects is family.

The common saying, “It takes a village to raise a child” is an accurate description of the communal way in which children are raised in Zimbabwean society.

Rusere’s parents were visiting from Africa and were in the audience for his presentation. They looked on proudly as he discussed his pride for his family and country. His mother laughed as he talked about how much he missed sadza, a common dish that she made when he was younger.

Rusere decided to come to Linfield after his older brother graduated from the school in 2012. His intended majors are in applied physics and computer science.

Although he now lives in the United States and may decide to get a job here after graduating, he still believes that Zimbabwe will forever be an important part of his identity.

“If it wasn’t for Zimbabwe I wouldn’t be the person that I am today.”