Meet Our Matrons

Meet Elaine Gillot, she was born and brought up in Harare. It was in 1985, while at Bible College that she was invited to help at Montgomery Heights Christian Care Centre, a children’s home in Concession.’I did so, and “fell in love” with these Godly people and the place and was asked to join the Family! So, in December I went to work there as a housemother to the girls, while also supervising the A.C.E. Learning Centre. I grew to love these precious children deeply. While I learned much about caring for children in this time, it was only by God’s grace that I ever managed.’After 30 years, however, a change became necessary. Elaine did some adult care work in Harare for 2 years before hearing about a matron’s job going at Ruzawi. ‘I was delighted to find it had a similar, Godly ethos to Montgomery. If I loved Montgomery and thought it was the best place on the planet, Ruzawi is a 5-star Montgomery! I am delighted to have found a place amongst these remarkable people with such passion and devotion.’Elaine thank you for being such a supportive role model to our grade 1, 2 and 3 girls. Not only do you have fun and laugh with them but you are their rock when they need it most. Thank you for all that you do, we are so grateful to have you a part of the Ruzawi Family.

Meet Lynn Neves, matron of the Grade 3- 7 boys. Lynn has worked with children as a Swimming coach and TaeKwondo instructor for over 20 years. Originally born and raised in the UK, she moved to Zimbabwe in the year 2000 and has never wanted to leave.
Her passion is working with children, she finds helping them to develop and being for them in her pastoral care role such a rewarding occupation. Lynn always strives to be positive and motivational and she uses these attributes while encouraging and nurturing the boys. She is truly a huge asset to our Ruzawi family.

Meet Russel Biyason, born and raised in our little cold town of Marondera, educated from Grade One to Seven at Lendy Park School, I then completed my schooling at St George’s College. My first experience working with children was at St Giles Rehabilitation Centre, and this is when I realised I have a heart for young people.  Shortly thereafter, I became a Junior Master at Lendy Park where it was very clear that I wanted to be involved in looking after children, coaching sport and helping them both in and out in the classroom. As Junior Master at Ruzawi School (my next role), from the very first moment at Ruzawi, I felt I could add some value to the wonderful staff body, and so it began. My Sports Management and Coaching Diploma with Gateway Training College has heavily aided my coaching abilities, which are also at the heart of what I do here at Ruzawi.  Looking after the senior boys in the dorm has been wonderful and I am currently enjoying every single minute of it (well almost).

Mufaro Mutuke, she is in charge of Grade 1 and 2 Ruzawi boys. ‘Having lived in Marondera for most of my life I have always been involved in the Marondera schools’ community. I  am an Occupational Therapist and I always knew I would one day end up working with children.  I am a passionate musician and I love playing the violin. It is such a pleasure being part of such a vital part of boarding school life. These boys always know how to light up a room and are a constant source of energy. Watching the children grow and become more independent is such a privilege and humbling experience.’