On Boxing Day 2024, Malawi’s National Coordinator for Connectors, Suzy Dzimbiri, led a heartfelt initiative to bring her community together in a spirit of compassion and inclusion. The event, held in Zomba, focused on celebrating the rights and dignity of older members of the community—individuals who are often marginalized or face prejudice and violence.
The gathering, which drew over 100 participants, including elderly community members, women, and children, was a vibrant celebration filled with speeches, drama, shared meals, and the giving of gifts. The event exemplified the power of compassion to unite and inspire.
Suzy opened the event with a warm welcome, emphasizing the importance of togetherness and the event’s goal of strengthening community ties. “I am so glad to see you all here” she shared in her speech. “This just shows the importance and power of community and the feeling of being seen, heard, and valued. And let’s not forget that that just extend to every one of us. We are all human and all deserving of love and respect.”
Suzy also committed to make the Zomba Christmas meal an annual event and a point of pride for the people of Zomba that they can be such a unified and connected community.
The village chief echoed this sentiment, expressing gratitude for the initiative and for the work Suzy’s Connectors have done to spread and embed compassion.
The event also included a poignant drama performance by the Namadidi Youth Group. The play highlighted the importance of respecting and protecting the elderly, inspired by a recent incident in the community where an older resident was targeted for theft. Through their performance, the youth reinforced the message that the well-being of the elderly reflects the health of the entire community.
The Boxing Day meal not only brought joy and nourishment but also shone a light on critical issues of inclusion and respect. The event’s success demonstrates the enduring impact of compassion-led initiatives in fostering harmony and addressing societal challenges.
Suzy Dzimbiri and the Malawi Connectors have shown that compassion is not just a feeling—it’s a practice that can transform communities. Their work continues to inspire and model how shared meals and meaningful conversations can build stronger, more inclusive societies.