Her Story
About Ropafadzo
Ropafadzo Hove is a history teacher specializing in education, with expertise in world history and African history. Based in Dallas, Texas, she has been teaching for two years. Ropafadzo earned her first degree in economic history from the University of Zimbabwe, where she was recognized as one of the best graduating students. She moved to the United States in 2022 to pursue her master's degree at Kent State University in Ohio. She has published in various African history journals and is conducting pre-doctoral research with Penn State. Ropafadzo attributes her success to her family background and her late father's dream of having one of his children study in the United States, which has also helped her heal from his loss. She values accountability in both her professional and personal life and advises others to believe in themselves and focus on where they are going rather than where they came from. Her passion for working with children drives her teaching, and she enjoys traveling, reading, and serving in her church.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Ropafadzo
01What do you attribute your success to?
My family background and my dad's dream. He always wanted one of his kids to study in the United States. Losing him at a young age made me push harder to fulfill that, and it helped me heal from his death.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
If you love to teach, just teach. That has helped me navigate the teaching area.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Never stop believing in yourself. Don't look at where you're coming from. It's not gonna determine your future. Look at where you're going. That's where your future is.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge is sometimes being accepted as an immigrant, but I think I'm navigating that well.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Accountability is number one, whether you're in the classroom or outside the classroom.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.