Zimbabwe Voluntary Association — More than a Chema group, we're your family in the UK
What Makes Us Special
What Makes ZIVA Unique
ZIVA stands for Zimbabwe Voluntary Association, and we're proudly based in Leicester, UK. While many groups focus solely on funeral support, we've built something far more comprehensive — a true mutual aid and social support network.
We believe in the power of collective action. By bringing together Zimbabweans living in Leicestershire, we create a safety net that catches you when life gets difficult. Our philosophy is simple: more hands make lighter work.
We currently serve three branches across the East Midlands — Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire, and Derbyshire — with ambitious plans for national expansion. This WhatsApp group is the official platform for ZIVA Leicestershire members.
You're welcome to join other Chema groups, just as you might have multiple insurance policies. We're here to complement your support network, not replace it.
This branch is specifically for people currently living in Leicestershire. Our local focus ensures we can provide rapid, practical support when you need it most.
Alumni Members Welcome
Life moves us around. If you've relocated within the UK for work or personal reasons, you're welcome to stay as an "Alumni Member." You'll remain part of our community with full benefits unless you leave the UK entirely.
Immediate Protection
Day One Funeral Support
Unlike other groups that impose waiting periods, ZIVA offers something truly extraordinary: immediate funeral grant support from your very first day. The moment you join, you're family.
All Calls Accepted
Whether you joined today or years ago, we respond to every request for assistance. Your family will receive community-raised Chema donations as a free grant.
No Waiting Period
There's no 6-month probation. From day one, the community rallies around you with a minimum £2 contribution from each member.
Community Generosity
These are grants based on our collective strength and compassion, not fixed insurance payouts. The amounts reflect our community's size and generosity.
Understanding Your Membership Status
01
New Member (Day 1)
Welcome to ZIVA! You're immediately covered for funeral support. The community contributes £2 minimum per member for your family if needed.
02
Silver Member
After your first funeral donation, you're showing commitment to the community. You continue receiving full £2-per-member support.
03
Gold Member Status
After donating to two consecutive funerals, you achieve Gold Status. If we lose a Gold member, all active members contribute a minimum of £10 in recognition of loyalty. We expect to raise over £4,000 for Gold member funerals.
Your participation level determines your support level. It's that simple and fair for everyone.
Special Protections We Offer
Senior Protection
Our retired members are treasured. They're never asked for the £10 Gold contribution — they remain on the £2 minimum, always.
Hardship Support
Facing temporary financial difficulty? Speak with Admin confidentially. We'll create a workable payment plan so you don't lose your benefits during tough times.
Full Transparency
ZIVA is the only group sharing complete bank statements showing all payments and family payouts, plus video receipts from bereaved families.
Beyond Funerals: Community Benefits
ZIVA's vision extends far beyond crisis support. We're building a comprehensive network of advantages for our community through collective bargaining power.
Exclusive Supplier Deals
We're actively negotiating with suppliers for everyday goods and services. Once finalized, these preferential rates will be available exclusively to ZIVA members.
Social Connection
Regular community gatherings strengthen bonds and combat isolation. We're building lasting friendships and professional networks.
Mutual Support
Life challenges beyond bereavement — job searches, housing, childcare — find solutions through our connected community.
How Contributions Work
ZIVA operates on voluntary principles with clear participation rules. Think of it like a members' club — joining is optional, but respecting the guidelines is essential for membership.
1
Your Choice
Paying £2 or £10 is voluntary. You decide whether to contribute for each funeral call.
2
Status Changes
If you choose not to contribute, your membership status adjusts accordingly. Gold members who miss payments return to Silver status.
3
Always Included
You'll never be removed from the WhatsApp group for non-payment. You remain part of ZIVA; your benefit level simply reflects your participation.
Members who rejoin active giving return to their previous Gold status after two consecutive contributions (including any arrears). This ensures fairness for everyone who participates.
Value Comparison
More Support, Less Cost
£2 to £4
Normal ZIVA Monthly Cost
Maximum you'd pay for most months based on typical funeral frequency
£20
Other Groups
What members of other Chema groups have already paid this year
£5,000+
Gold Support
Expected grant amount for Gold member funerals thanks to our large membership
Our strength lies in numbers. Because ZIVA has such large membership, families receive substantially more support even though individual contributions are lower.
More hands truly means less weight — for you and for grieving families who need help most.
Our Verification Process
Trust is everything when handling community funds and sensitive situations. ZIVA has established robust verification procedures to protect both donors and recipients.
Documentation Required
We collect government-issued ID, two proofs of residence, and other standard documentation from all members. This protects the integrity of our community.
Family-Led Requests
ZIVA Admins never "scout" for funerals. We wait to be contacted by actual family members who must provide proof of their relationship to the deceased.
Transparency Standards
Every transaction is documented with bank statements and video confirmation from families showing exact amounts received. Full accountability, always.
Important Rules and Conduct
Fair Usage
Admins reserve the right to determine unfair usage or behavior patterns. Our goal is protecting the community while supporting genuine need.
Respectful Behavior
We're building a supportive, respectful community. Serious misconduct may result in suspension of association for up to 10 years.
Multiple Memberships
You will not lose ZIVA benefits by joining other groups. As long as you meet our terms, your status remains unchanged.
GDPR Compliance
Your data is protected. Read our full GDPR statement, Constitution, and Admin profiles at www.zivaglobal.co.uk
More Hands, Less Weight
This is more than our motto — it's our lived reality. Every day, ZIVA members across Leicestershire support each other through life's challenges, knowing they're never alone.
Whether you're seeking funeral protection, social connection, or simply peace of mind that your family will be supported, ZIVA welcomes you. We're building something special: a true Zimbabwean community in the heart of the UK.