The remarkable journey of mixed martial arts fighter, Themba Gorimbo, takes centre stage in this weekend’s edition of African Voices Changemakers, CNN International’s magazine programme, sponsored by telecommunications giant, Globacom.
The episode aired on Saturday, January 24, and features an intimate conversation with the Zimbabwean-born UFC fighter. Gorimbo’s story is one of resilience shaped by hardship survival and an unshakable belief in purpose which carried him from the margins of society to the global stage.
In the interview, Gorimbo reflects on a turbulent upbringing that saw him smuggle diamonds as a teenager in Zimbabwe, and narrowly escaped death while illegally crossing into South Africa. He speaks openly about how those experiences shaped his mental strength and determination to change his life through sport.
The programme airs multiple times to accommodate audiences across different time zones, with broadcasts scheduled for Saturday at 8:30 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.; Sunday at 4:30 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.; Monday at 4:00 a.m. and 6:45 p.m.; and Tuesday at 6:45 p.m. There will be further repeats next week at the same time slots, all West Africa time.
Viewers will learn powerful lessons on resilience, accountability and self belief as Gorimbo shares how he turned adversity into motivation. This episode offers a moving reminder that with focus, courage and purpose, it is possible to rise beyond circumstance and create a new path forward.
