Many Zimbabweans now live abroad because of Robert Mugabe's autocratic rule.

Collin Nyabadza is a Swift Current resident. He says while many professionals are thriving since leaving Zimbabwe, it's taken a toll on the south-east African country's development.

But Nyabadza - who works with Southwest Homes and helps coach minor soccer and high school soccer - still tries to have a positive impact on his homeland.

His organization - The Collin Nyabadza Children's Voice Charitable Trust - received a grant from the Calgary South Rotary Club last year for $5,400 which went towards classroom furniture for three schools, and he says they could have another similar grant coming that would furnish three more.

"Everyday we get people asking for help," said Nyabadza, who is 49 years old. "Most of the time we just go into an empty classroom, very filthy. Monday they come nicely dressed having washed their uniforms. But Monday evening when they go back to their homes they are looking filthy, because they've been laying on the floor where it's very dirty with nothing when they want to do their written work. So we try to intervene and we help schools get money."

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Nyabadza talked about dissenting opinions to the state's not being allowed to be voiced in Zimbabwe, and how that forces people to flee instead of being made out as traitors.

But through the organization, work, and coaching, Nyabadza is able to devote himself to helping young people pursue their dreams.

"I just enjoy getting involved in my community and making a difference in a child or young person's life," he said.

The work isn't going unnoticed. In October, 2016 he was able to represent his organization at an award ceremony at the United Nations Office in Vienna, Austria.

And Nyabadza - who is from Bulawayo (Zambia's second-largest city) - credits the Swift Current community with helping him help others - he had a banner donated to him by a family in town, and also had his travel and expenses paid for.

He does say recent events in Zimbabwe affect his organization, as it's hard for the international community "to commit when the political environment is a bit unstable."

But for Nyabadza, the busyness continues, as he's also working on a book, tentatively called, 'What Does Not Kill You Makes You Stronger.'