25 percent of Zimbabwe 's population has left the nation , humanitarian groups say . In 2008 , 1,016 kids traveled to South Africa , social workers say . Most children say they leave due to hunger , poverty , non - functioning schools . It is a twisted interpretation that , however misguided , gives strength to Brian , marking him as a `` man '' and `` someone who does not surrender , '' he said quietly in a soft voice . Boys work in South African farms , beg on weekends ; girls become prostitutes , maids .
25 percent of Zimbabwe 's population has left the nation , humanitarian groups say . In 2008 , 1,016 kids traveled to South Africa , social workers say . Most children say they leave due to hunger , poverty , non - functioning schools . Boys work in South African farms , beg on weekends ; girls become prostitutes , maids .