My Story
My name is Tonderai M Pazvakavambga. I was born in Zimbabwe, and my homeland’s vibrant culture and warm community shaped my early life. I attended Peterhouse in Zimbabwe, completing my O Level and A Levels, laying a solid foundation for my future studies and career.
In 2009, I moved to the UK to pursue higher education. I first achieved an HND in Accounting, followed by an HND in Computing. Driven by a passion for understanding and managing people and organizations, I earned a Bachelor’s in Human Resources and Marketing.
However, my life took an unexpected turn when I suffered a traumatic brain injury. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of a new chapter in my journey. During my recovery, my family faced the heart-wrenching possibility of having to make critical decisions about my future if my condition did not improve. This period underscored my situation’s severity and its profound uncertainty.
What I realised...
As I came to terms with the injury, I had to navigate significant cognitive problems, as well as challenges with my sight and hearing. These difficulties led me into a deep depression. The realization that I had lost everything I had worked for in a split second was devastating. During these darkest hours, my brother Nhamo, sister Munya, ex-wife Viktoria, and friends like Tawand and Mwansa turned up and provided the support I desperately needed.
I am deeply grateful to the NHS and the staff at the Intensive Care Unit at St George’s Hospital. Their compassion and dedication were evident when, despite the severity of my condition, they showed incredible empathy. I vividly remember the staff crying when they saw me later and hearing them say, “Out of a bay of four patients, you were the most likely to die, but everyone around you did. You are a miracle.” This experience made me realize that I had been brought back for a reason, reinforcing my resolve to find purpose and meaning in my life.
Since leaving the hospital, my journey has been fraught with challenges. I’ve faced knockback after knockback—not only in the early days after my injury but continuing to this day. Each setback has tested my resolve, but it has also deepened my appreciation for life. We all have problems and issues, but every morning that we wake up is a blessing. That alone should fill us with gratitude and keep us in good spirits.
My ex-wife Viki and I moved to Edinburgh, where I found it highly challenging to reintegrate into life due to the severe cognitive issues I faced. However, during my time in Edinburgh, I began to find myself again. I started to feel grateful just to be alive, and I channelled my experiences into writing. This led to the creation of my first book, Smile and the World Will Smile with You.
I warmly welcome you to join me on this journey. Whether you are a brain injury survivor, a stroke patient, someone dealing with depression, or facing any other challenge that makes you feel low, know that you are not alone. My journey is a testament to the power of hope, determination, and the incredible strength of the human spirit. By sharing my story, I hope to inspire and support others facing similar struggles, and I invite you to journey with me towards healing and resilience.
My family’s unwavering support and love, including my boys in the hood—Tawand and Mwansa—were instrumental in helping me through the most challenging times of my life. I overcame the odds through perseverance, resilience, and the strength I drew from my loved ones.
Today, as a brain injury survivor and author, I am dedicated to sharing my story to offer encouragement and solidarity to those navigating their challenges. My journey is a testament to the power of hope, determination, and the incredible strength of the human spirit.