Jessica: Future science expert and education leader

5 minute read

My dream of becoming a science lecturer is now within reach.

It hasn’t always been this way. Growing up in a disadvantaged family in the rural Kasama district of Zambia, as the youngest of three sisters, my hopes and dreams often felt out of reach.

After my parents divorced, I went to live with my mother—a courageous woman who sells tomatoes to support our family. Despite her tireless efforts, she struggled to earn enough money to provide the basic materials I needed to learn and succeed in school.

By the time I reached secondary school, my dream of continuing my education felt like it was slipping away. My world was filled with uncertainty, until a kind Teacher Mentor (a government teacher trained in guidance and counselling)—along with a group of supportive parents, teachers, and community members—noticed I was struggling and recommended me for CAMFED support.

Their care and encouragement marked a turning point in my life—changing the course of my story for the better. Soon, I had essential items like uniforms, books and stationery, as well as a safe and supportive environment. I started to find the courage to believe in myself.

Here I am with two Teacher Mentors at my school, Madam Chitimbwa (on the left) and Madam Singoyi.

At school, we’re supported by Learner Guides – young women in the CAMFED Association, educated with CAMFED’s support, who have overcome similar challenges to ours. We look up to them as “big sisters” and role models. My Learner Guide leads My Better World sessions on self-development every week, which have been a true turning point in my life. They helped me discover the power of setting goals, building confidence, and looking after my well-being while focusing on my education.

Reaching new heights in education

Chemistry is, without a doubt, my favorite school subject—not just because of the formulas and experiments, but because it dares me to think differently. I love how it explains the world around us—from the way soap works to why leaves change color. It reveals the hidden stories behind everyday things. To me, chemistry is a thrilling puzzle that I can’t wait to solve.

I aspire to become a science lecturer, specializing in chemistry. I love to help my classmates in various STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) subjects. I enjoy watching their faces light up when something finally makes sense. I’m striving for a career that offers financial stability, while allowing me to teach, mentor, and grow.

In 2024, I took my Grade 9 exams (a significant education milestone here in Zambia). I was so happy to achieve an exam score of 540—the highest in my school! It was a proud moment—not just for me, but for my mother, who never gave up on me, and for the school community that supported me every step of the way.

My mother’s unwavering support has encouraged me so much in my education journey.

Educating girls is not just important—it is essential. It helps to break the cycle of poverty, raises healthier families, and builds brighter futures. An educated girl grows into a confident woman, a responsible citizen, and often, an unstoppable leader.

Rising and lifting others

After completing secondary school, I hope to join the CAMFED Association. I feel motivated by the educated young women leaders in the network, who are spearheading transformational programs in my community. They are raising awareness of the issues affecting girls’ access to education–from lack of resources, to gender-based violence (GBV).

They also support children to stay in school by providing them with school uniforms, shoes, books, and bags. This support means even more children–especially vulnerable girls–can pursue education with confidence and dignity.

The weight that once pulled many children out of school has been lifted, thanks to the unwavering commitment of leaders in the CAMFED Association. More girls and boys are attending school, believing in themselves, and chasing their dreams without fear.

I’m excited to join the CAMFED Association and give back to my community–reaching girls who are in the same situation I once was. Just as CAMFED is lifting us today, I want to extend a helping hand tomorrow. I feel strongly that helping others is my calling.

To all the inspiring women who walk with us through the My Better World journey: your support is lighting the path for girls like me, giving us the strength to dream, to achieve, and to build a better tomorrow.