BRISBANE, 1 Feb 2026 – The Zimbabwe Queensland Community Connection (ZQCC) successfully convened its Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Brisbane on January 31, 2026, marking a significant transition in leadership for the vibrant community organisation.
The meeting was hailed as a productive and engaging success, driven by the active participation and collaborative spirit of its members. The AGM served to reinforce the community’s shared goals and strengthen its collective purpose in Queensland.
A key outcome of the AGM was the election of a new Executive Committee for the 2026 term. The community has ushered in a fresh leadership team tasked with steering its activities and outreach.
The election process was overseen by independent representatives from the Wisdom Council, ensuring a credible and transparent transition.
A New Chapter Begins
The AGM saw the completion of a foundational chapter for ZQCC as its Founding President, Dr Wonder Chimonyo, stepped down after serving a full two-year term. The community expressed deep appreciation for Dr Chimonyo’s commitment and hard work in establishing the organisation and setting a strong foundation for its future.
Fred Mashate (left) and Wonder Chimonyo (right), new and former presidents of ZQCC
In a show of support for his successor, Dr Chimonyo endorsed the incoming Chairperson, Fredy Mashate, stating: “With an unwavering commitment and a deep understanding of community building and development, Fredy possesses the essential skills to lead the community including strategy development, governance, communication, events planning and stakeholder engagement. Fredy is young, charismatic and energetic and this makes him a strategic choice for the future of the organization, and will significantly contribute to the much-needed growth of ZQCC.”
Stepping into the role of Chairperson to lead the new committee, Mashate and his team have been entrusted with the responsibility of building upon the existing groundwork and driving the ZQCC’s mission forward. It was noted that Dr Chimonyo has expressed willingness to continue supporting the community in a new capacity.
Adding prestige to the occasion, The Honourable Fiona Simpson, Member for Maroochydore, made a brief appearance, reaffirming her support for the ZQCC’s initiatives. She highlighted the integral role the community plays in Queensland’s social and economic fabric.
“From our hospitals, to our civil construction sites, to small business – the contribution of Australian-Zimbabweans is significant and growing,” Simpson said. “This is not only the case in urban areas, but throughout regional Queensland.”
Her presence underscored the importance of the group’s work and solidified its connection with local leadership, promising to amplify the community’s impact across the state.
Fiona Simpson addressing ZQCC members at the AGM
The newly formed executive includes portfolios for Vice Chair, Secretary, Treasurer, Events Coordination, Youth representation, and Media and Communications, ensuring a comprehensive approach to community engagement.
Gratitude was also extended to other outgoing executive members, including Dr Posani Maveza, for their prior service, knowledge, and contributions to the community’s growth.
The ZQCC Committee for 2026 extended its warm regards and sincere thanks to the broader community for their ongoing support and dedication to fostering connection and success among Zimbabweans in Queensland.
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