INTERVIEW: Mazvita on being an African in Durham

By Samara Patel, palatinate.org

We chatted with Mazvita, a postgraduate student from St. Aiden’s College and the Durham People of Colour Association, to ask about her lived experience of being an African international student, and all the joys and challenges that come with it.

What attracted you to Durham as a university, out of all the ones in England?

I chose Durham University for its strong academic reputation and its established programs in my field. Also, the historic and picturesque setting, combined with the unique collegiate system further piqued my interest. Plus, the location offers a perfect balance between cities like Newcastle and the countryside.

What country are you from? What’s it like there?

I’m from Zimbabwe. It’s an amazing place with breath-taking landscapes, like Victoria Falls and incredible wildlife in our national parks. The culture is vibrant, and the people are some of the friendliest you’ll ever meet. Furthermore, the sense of community and resilience there is truly inspiring, especially as the majority of my family is there, which is a bonus, I would say. It’s a place that holds a special part of my heart.

How are the cultures you’ve experienced here feel different from your Zimbabwean culture?

Well, there are many reasons, but one that stands out to me is the way celebrations and traditions are observed. In Zimbabwe, traditional music, dance, and ceremonies play a significant role in daily life, reflecting the rich cultural heritage.

Meanwhile, in the UK, there’s a mix of various cultural influences, and events like festivals and holidays often bring diverse communities together, which is quite interesting. Also, in Zimbabwe, people often gather for social events, and family bonds are more important compared to the UK, where the pace of life is more relaxed.

What do you miss about your home? What in Durham can remind you of it?

What I miss most about Zimbabwe is the weather, as I love the sun, and the regular vibrant gatherings and fellowships we used to have. However, what reminds me of home in Durham is the close-knit college communities that resemble the belonging and support I felt back in Zimbabwe. Taking part in college events and being part of my university’s ACS brings a familiar warmth and connection that I remember from home, which is always nice.

Do you plan on returning to Zimbabwe after your education here? Why or why not?

I plan to stay in the UK after my education. This is mainly because the UK offers a lot more opportunities that align with my career goals, and I believe I can make a substantial impact here. While I do love my home country, I enjoy meeting new people and visiting different places, which the UK can offer.

What have you found is the biggest challenge of being an international student from your
particular perspective? The biggest joy?

From my perspective as an international student, the biggest challenge has been adjusting to a new environment and culture. This includes everything from getting used to different teaching styles and academic expectations to navigating daily life in a new country. There are moments of feeling homesick and missing the familiarity of home,
which can be quite tough. On a positive note, the biggest joy has been meeting all kinds of people from all over the world and forming lifelong friendships.

How does the idea of being Black in the UK differ from the experience in Zimbabwe?

Well, in the UK, you essentially know that you are Black, as being Black often means being part of a minority. This can bring its own set of challenges, such as racism and finding spaces where cultural identity is understood and celebrated. Despite this, I have felt quite welcome in the UK, as there are a few Black communities and cultural festivals that I can get involved in. On the other hand, in Zimbabwe, the majority of the population is Black, which means that cultural practices, social norms, and everyday life are aligned with my background, and I would say I relate more to the people there.

Has Durham/the North East made you feel welcome?

In my opinion, Durham and the Northeast are quite friendly and, so far, have been very welcoming. From simple locals happily giving me directions to visiting the church folks at Durham Cathedral, I’ve felt accepted.

What are the particular challenges of being an African international student compared to ones from other parts of the world?

Well, there are quite a few, such as visa and immigration issues, which can be complex; cultural adjustment, as adapting to a new culture can be overwhelming; language barriers, as many African students face difficulties with accents and idioms; and discrimination and stereotyping, as African students may encounter racism, stereotypes, and microaggressions, which can impact their mental health and academic performance.

What’s one thing you want people to know Africans in Durham, or Africa as a whole?

Firstly, Africa is a huge continent with an amazing mix of cultures and histories. Every country is unique, with its own stories and traditions. African students in Durham bring this diversity, making the community richer and more interesting. Everyone should forget whatever stereotypes they have heard and know that Africa is full of talent, beauty, and innovation.