From Curiosity to Commitment: How Taekwondo Helped Takunda Musarurwa Find His Purpose at MSU

What is it that you once started as something funny or casual, only to discover that it would shape your passion and purpose? For Takunda Musarurwa, a level 3.1 Biotechnology & Bioinformatics student, that spark was Taekwondo.

What began as simple curiosity soon transformed into a journey of discipline, achievement, and personal growth at Midlands State University. Takunda’s introduction to Taekwondo was driven by a desire to challenge himself, unaware that it would become a defining part of his university life.

“I started Taekwondo out of curiosity and a desire to challenge myself,” he said. “When I joined MSU in 2023, I became part of the Taekwondo team, and that’s where my journey really grew.”

With the guidance of dedicated coaches and the support of teammates, Takunda committed himself to consistent training and self-improvement. His efforts quickly bore fruit, earning him a silver medal in his first tournament, followed by bronze medals at the 2024 and 2025 ZUSA Games—a remarkable rise for someone who had only recently discovered the sport.

Beyond medals and tournaments, Taekwondo became more than a physical activity. It evolved into a community that offered emotional support and belonging.

“Taekwondo is not just a sport; it is one family,” Takunda explained. “We help each other in times of emergencies, we share our problems, and that helps a lot. Some students who do not do sports suffer from depression and stress, but when you do Taekwondo, you always have someone to confide in.”

While some view sport as a distraction from academics, Takunda sees it as a powerful complement to his studies. He believes that discipline learned on the training mat translates into academic focus.

“As long as you have proper time management, you can always find at least one or two hours to train without affecting your studies,” he highlighted. “There are many advantages to sport. You also get to travel and experience new places—we have been to Bulawayo, Mutare, Harare, Bindura and many other places.”

Takunda’s story reflects the essence of life at the #universityoffirstchoiceforall —a place where students are not only educated academically but are also developed holistically, encouraged to explore their talents, build resilience, and realise their dreams.