Zimbabwe’s female motocross champion Tanya Muzinda’s profile now goes beyond the racing track following her inclusion on the prestigious BBC’s 100 Women 2021 list, announced by the world’s leading public service broadcaster.
The 17-year-old rising star, who is the European Union-Zimbabwe Honorary Ambassador for Youth, Sports and Gender is well known for her exploits on the motocross on the racing track and her efforts to empower children from underprivileged communities in the country.
Recently Muzinda, who is now based in the USA, has shown courage beyond her age, using her influence on social media to call out the Zimbabwean government on the deteriorating socio-economic environment, human rights abuses as well as corruption.
The teenage athlete has been recognised for her efforts by being featured on the inspiring and influential women list from all over the globe who are being celebrated for making a difference in other people’s lives.
I’m so proud of @tanyamuzinda for making the list of 2021 BBC 100 Women.
17yo, from Zimbabwe, with the passion for motocross, the world is lucky to have you.
Congratulations! 💖https://t.co/XBeNkaw8Wv#motocross #women #motorcycle #womensupportingwomen #womenmotorcyclist #wmx— Stefy Bau (@StefyBau) December 7, 2021
“Taking on the male-dominated world of motocross, or off-road motorcycle racing, Tanya Muzinda has become her country’s off-road circuits champion. She is the first Zimbabwean woman to win a motocross championship since the competition started in 1957,” the BBC said.
“Inspired by her father, a former biker, she started training when she was five. Now 17, Muzinda hopes to be the first black African to win a women’s motocross world championship. In 2018, she was crowned junior sportswoman of the year by the African Union. With her motocross earnings, she engages in charitable work, paying tuition for around 100 students to attend school in Harare.”
Claire Williams, the editor of 100 Women, said in a statement: “For the first time we are dedicating half of this year’s 100 Women list to women from one country – Afghanistan. We want to recognise the bravery and strength of Afghan women as they reset their lives. Returning for its ninth year, 100 Women will celebrate the achievements of women from grassroots activists to global leaders. The season will highlight and amplify these trailblazing women who are creating a bold, new future.”