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Zambia Archives - The African Impact Foundation

The Power of Collaboration Between Nonprofits and Communities

By News, Stories

Investing in an NPO that has established deep roots within the local community guarantees that your funding contributes to sustainable and impactful change, driven by a genuine understanding of the community’s needs and aspirations.

In the domain of social impact and community development, the fusion of efforts between Nonprofits and local communities serves as a pivotal catalyst for creating significant and enduring change. This alliance cultivates an environment where common objectives, shared resources, and collective expertise converge to address pressing societal needs. By bridging the gap between the grassroots knowledge and fervor of the community and the structured backing of an NPO, transformative initiatives take root, leaving a profound and enduring imprint on individuals’ lives and the overall well-being of the community and its youth.

This symbiotic relationship not only drives the community to embrace and address its challenges but also empowers us as an organisation to customize our strategies in a responsive and inclusive manner, ensuring the relevance and effectiveness of our solutions.

Celebrating Literacy and Community Spirit in Zambia

Our team joined the fervent celebrations of International Literacy Day, this year commemorated under the theme “Promoting Literacy for a World in Transition.” The event drew in the enthusiastic participation of numerous Zambians, including our committed adult learners.

Thanks to your unwavering support, we continuously furnish essential learning materials to strengthen literacy initiatives across Zambia.

Fostering Collective Growth and Community Empowerment

Our recent assembly with community partners was a testament to the profound impact of our programs, igniting dialogues about upcoming collaborations for sustainable community development. This gathering reinforced our collective commitment to advancing the well-being of our community, underscoring the significance of collaboration and shared aspirations.

The Power of Collaboration Between Nonprofits and Communities!

Bridging Hearts and Communities: The Journey of a Donor Relations Manager in Zambia

By News, Stories

I’ve just returned from an incredible journey in Zambia, and let me tell you, it was nothing short of amazing.

As the Donor Relations and Communications Manager, I had the opportunity to dive headfirst into the heart of our projects, alongside our fantastic team. From visiting the schools we support to checking out the land we purchased for our upcoming Youth Hub, it was an adventure for the books.

The schools we support are more than just buildings; they’re hubs of hope and opportunity. I got to witness firsthand the impact of our initiatives on these young minds, and let me tell you, their energy and enthusiasm were contagious.

We also scoped out the land we recently purchased for our brand-new Youth Hub center. This place is going to be a game-changer, a safe space for the youth to learn, grow, and dream big. I could practically see the future buzzing with possibilities as we stood on that plot of land.

Oh, and let’s not forget the workshop I attended. Our team facilitate some seriously eye-opening sessions, shedding light on crucial topics and empowering youth to drive positive change for themselves, their families and ultimately their communities. The passion and dedication of everyone involved were truly inspiring.

But you know what made this trip truly special? The people. The Zambian people are a whole other level of welcoming. Their warmth and kindness enveloped me from the moment we set foot in their community. I can’t stress this enough: if you ever get the chance, you’ve got to visit our projects here. There’s something truly magical about experiencing the impact of our work firsthand and feeling the pulse of the community.

As I sit here, reminiscing about the laughter, the learning, and the genuine connections we made, I can’t help but feel incredibly grateful for this opportunity. Our team is doing some incredible work, and it’s all thanks to your unwavering support. So, here’s a big shout-out to all our amazing donors—you’re the driving force behind all of this.

Stay tuned for more updates, because together, we’re making a real difference, one step at a time. Let’s keep spreading that love and positivity, shall we?

Till next time,

Cora-Lee

Your Partner in Changing Lives.

Bridging Hearts and Communities: The Journey of a Donor Relations Manager in Zambia

Expanding Our Impact: Empowering through Reproductive Health and Youth Insaka

By News, Stories

Our aim is to witness girls, boys, women, and men collaborating to demonstrate how education and adequate support can elevate families and whole communities. In this blog, we will discuss the impact of our Reproductive Health Programme and Youth Insaka projects on the community.

On August 21, 2023, we marked a significant milestone by introducing the Reproductive Health programme to the vibrant Ngwenya community in Livingstone. The event was an opportunity to share the programme’s core objectives, purpose, and mission with the local residents.

 

Lets dive in…

The Reproductive Health initiative primarily targets adolescents, and the response from the Ngwenya community was truly inspiring. We were overwhelmed by their enthusiasm and commitment, which translated into a remarkable turnout for the program’s launch. The community’s strong interest in reproductive health demonstrated their recognition of the program’s potential to bring about positive change in the lives of young individuals.

Throughout the month of September, our dedicated participants immersed themselves in a series of engaging sessions. These sessions were carefully designed to cover a wide range of topics with a focus on enhancing their understanding of sexual reproductive health and overall well-being. Participants eagerly embraced these discussions and activities, actively seeking knowledge and skills that will empower them to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The Reproductive Health program not only aims to educate but also to inspire. It fosters a sense of responsibility and empowerment among the youth, equipping them with the tools and knowledge necessary to navigate the challenges of adolescence and adulthood. As we continue to progress through the program, we are excited to witness the growth and development of these young individuals, who are poised to become informed advocates for their own health and active contributors to the well-being of their community.

The introduction of reproductive health to the Ngwenya community represents a pivotal moment in our ongoing efforts to promote holistic well-being and education. We are grateful for the support and enthusiasm of the community members, and we look forward to the positive impact that this program will undoubtedly bring to the lives of our participants and the broader community.

Our Youth Insaka project, where young individuals congregate to explore topics ranging from health, wellness, and gender equality to education and employment hurdles.

Here, the emphasis lies on fostering discussions where confident girls and boys lead the way, rather than adults, as selected young leaders facilitate the Insaka gatherings. Our vision is to establish a space for boys and girls to form connections through mutual support, tackling shared challenges, and devising collaborative solutions to cultivate positive mindsets and essential skills for a promising tomorrow.

Youth Insaka has been actively organizing quizzes for both girls and boys, covering a diverse range of topics previously discussed during Term 2 sessions. These quizzes serve the crucial purpose of evaluating students’ understanding of the knowledge they’ve acquired. In the current term, both zones have already delved into an array of subjects, including the empowering concept of self-determination.

Creating Pathways out of Poverty through Gender Equality and Wellness Programmes!

Volunteer Spotlight: Isice’s Journey with the Gender Equality Project

By News, Stories

At the African Impact Foundation, we believe in the power of education, community development, and sustainable initiatives to bring about lasting change. Our Internship and Volunteer Program in Zambia provides a unique opportunity for young professionals and students to gain practical experience in fields such as education, community development, and gender equality.

Let’s introduce you to one of our incredible volunteer, Isice Michels, who joined the Gender Equality project in Zambia and experienced a transformative journey.

Isice, a young professional from the Netherlands, embarked on a life-changing adventure with the African Impact Foundation’s Gender Equality project in Zambia. She had always been passionate about women’s rights and gender equality, and she was eager to make a real impact on the ground.

Isice writes…

“My name is Isice Michels, last August I went to Livingstone in Zambia to work on the Girl Impact project to combat gender inequality in Zambia.

I have always been very passionate about doing something good in this world and to make a change, that is the reason why I started working in sustainability. But going to Zambia and working on the girl impact classes was the first time in my life that I felt that I had the possibility to make a real change.

As Nelson Mandela said, ‘The life we live is not the mere fact that we have lived, it is what difference we have made to the life of others that determine the significance of the life we lead.’

I remember the moment when we visited a school to conduct a teaching session for Girl Impact. We arrived with a suitcase filled with clothing and a supply of menstrual pads. The other volunteers and I were tasked to share these clothes among the girls. As we did so, we had to ask who of the girls already started having their period and did not have any sanitary products. Approximately 10 girls raised their hands, signalling their need, yet we only had four packages of pads available. This situation felt surreal to me. Menstrual pads, something I considered a basic necessity, were not within reach for these girls.

It broke my heart as we could only provide pads to four out of the ten girls in need. It was at that moment that I realized I could make a meaningful difference right here and right now in these girls’ lives. Some girls had to walk for almost 2 hours to get to school and each month, during their week-long period, these girls couldn’t make the journey to school, simply because they lacked the means to manage their menstrual flow. Consequently, they missed a significant portion of their education each month. It became clear to me why only 8% of girls complete secondary school in Zambia.

I understood that by providing sanitary products for all these girls, we weren’t only ensuring their comfort but also contributing significantly to the cause of gender equality. It was just as simple as donating menstrual pads.

I began discussing the issue with the women from the African Impact Foundation, who informed me about reusable menstrual pads produced by local women in Zambia. These reusable pads could serve a single girl for 3 to 5 years. This revelation astounded me because investing in these reusable pads meant not only supporting girls in completing their education but also aiding the growth of local women’s businesses in Zambia in a sustainable way”.

Isice took her commitment to another level. She successfully raised nearly €1000 to support the provision of menstrual pads for women and girls in Zambia, making a profound impact on their lives.

Are you ready to make a positive impact like Isice? Join our Internship Program in Zambia and be part of the change. Together, we can create a brighter and more equal future for all. Visit our website to learn more about our programs and how you can get involved.

Leave a Lasting Legacy in Africa!

Championing Change in Zambia: Celebrating Our Dedicated Intern

By News, Stories

At African Impact Foundation we are incredibly proud to introduce you to a remarkable individual whose passion and dedication have left an indelible mark on the communities we serve in Zambia. In this blog, written from the perspective of our valued intern, Henry, you will embark on an inspiring journey through his experiences, triumphs, and the transformative impact of his service.

Get ready to be moved, inspired, and enlightened as we share the extraordinary tale of a volunteer who embodies the vert essence of our mission. Together we will celebrate the power of volunteerism, the beauty of Zambia, and the incredible change that can be achieved when hearts and hands come together for a common purpose.

Let’s hear what Henry has to say…

My time working with the African Impact Foundation has been incredibly rewarding. Having the ability to make an impact on the local community in Livingstone, both through working with the Foundation as well as volunteering on the project with African Impact has been great. Given my interest in NGOs, it has been really insightful to witness one functioning in person, and has broadened my outlook regarding future careers.

I have helped raise money for the Foundation’s great causes, such as Girl Impact, through promoting activities for volunteers. I have also been able to gain first-hand experience of the impact that AIF has on the ground, via my involvement in the likes of Youth Insaka; LETS; Girl Impact; and sports coaching. The likes of Youth Insaka, Girl Impact, and LETS are evidently important to the education of the local children, providing them with important knowledge that may take up a less central role within their school education. These topics range from financial skills, entrepreneurship, health-related topics, and other vital social skills. Working on the sports project was specifically exciting for me, given it being one of my passions. Witnessing the enthusiasm of the local children when participating in these sessions made it all worthwhile.

Participating alongside the volunteers from African Impact was a similarly enjoyable experience. I have made both great friends and memories through project work as well as external activities. The staff from both African Impact and AIF have all been wonderful to work with. The notable enjoyment they receive from their role only worked to heighten my own determination to make a difference. The ability to take part in a safari through Chobe National Park was truly unforgettable and is certainly one of the highlights of my stay. I also took part in rafting and the bungee jump, which are both unique experiences. My visit to Victoria Falls was equally incredible. The countless opportunities to explore the local area, as well as its unbelievable surroundings, have simply added to my unforgettable experience here in Livingstone.

Discover Zambia – Make an Impact through African Impact Foundation

Introducing Our Internship Offerings: Exploring the Differences

By News, Stories

Are you ready to embark on an impactful internship experience with us, and make a lasting impact? We offer both in-person and virtual internships, each providing unique opportunities for personal and professional growth. Let’s delve into the main differences between the two

In-Person Internship: Explore Africa, Make a Difference

Our in-person internships invite you to discover the beauty of the continent while gaining practical experience in NGO operations and community development. With experienced on-site staff, professional development coaching, and customised goals, you’ll receive valuable guidance to reach sustainable results for the communities we serve. From our NGO internship in Livingstone, Zambia to placements at our head office in Cape Town, South Africa, the choice is yours.

Why Choose an In-Person Internship?

  • Customised placement to suit your skills and goals
  • Support from our on-site and head office teams
  • Professional development coaching for personal growth
  • Immersive non-profit experience with grassroots exposure
  • Opportunity to monitor and evaluate project progress and impact
  • Flexible placement duration (recommended 4 to 6 months) with year-round start dates

Virtual Internship: Bridge the Gap, Make and Impact

Our Virtual Internship brings the African Impact Foundation experience to you, regardless of your location. Connect with our dedicated team for a remote internship program designed to align with your personal and professional development goals. We offer flexibility to accommodate your capacity and time zone, ensuring a tailored experience.

Why Choose a Virtual Internship?

  • Gain practical experience and theoretical understanding of social development
  • Customisable focus areas based on your academic focus, personal interest, or passion 
  • Duration ranging from 1 to 6 months, fitting around your commitments and capacity
  • Dedicated internship supervisor and personalised development plan
  • Access to a rich library of digital learning resources and content
  • Suitable for students, graduates, and professionals seeking NGO sector experience or exploring career changes

Whether you choose an in-person or virtual internship, both options offer invaluable opportunities to make a difference, gain professional references, and broaden your horizons. Join us in giving back and gaining invaluable experience.

Disrupt the cycle of poverty with African Impact Foundation 

Making Good Decisions for a Bright Future

By News, Stories

At Youth Insaka, we are committed to nurturing and empowering young minds. This week, we embarked on an exciting journey with our boys and girls as they explored “making good decisions.” Our young learners’ enthusiasm, creativity, and insightful contributions have been inspiring. Let’s take a closer look at the incredible progress we’ve made!

The African Impact Foundation’s Youth Insaka initiative is a program specifically designed to empower and support young individuals in Africa. Insaka, which means “meeting place” in Bemba, a Zambian language, symbolizes a safe and inclusive space for young people to gather, learn, and grow.

Defining Decisions. 

To lay the foundation for our discussions, we explained a decision’s meaning. Through engaging conversations, we explored the various aspects and complexities of decision-making. We emphasized the importance of making positive choices that can profoundly impact one’s life and the lives of others.

Our young learners demonstrated remarkable maturity by sharing real-life situations and examples that showcased the power of good decision-making. Their contributions reflected their understanding and sparked further discussions and insights.

Engaging Group Activity.

We organized a captivating group activity to deepen their understanding and encourage collaboration. The boys and girls were divided into two teams, each assigned to discuss the steps and outcomes of making good decisions. This activity fostered teamwork, critical thinking, and practical communication skills.

To add an element of excitement, each team chose a representative to express their respective groups’ collective thoughts and conclusions. The session became a lively exchange of ideas, filled with laughter and camaraderie.

Challenges of Adolescence.

At Youth Insaka, we are acutely aware of the challenges young people face during adolescence. By addressing topics such as making good decisions, we equip them with the necessary skills to navigate these challenges with confidence and wisdom.

Encouraging young individuals to make sound decisions is a cornerstone of personal growth and development. By instilling the belief that they have the power to shape their own futures, we empower them to become leaders who positively contribute to society.

Moving Forward: Empowering Youth for the Journey Ahead.

The journey of empowering our Youth never stops. At Youth Insaka, we are dedicated to providing ongoing support and inspiration. Through our programs, we will continue to foster critical thinking, inspire creativity, and nurture personal growth.

Stay connected for more updates as we embark on new discussions, activities, and initiatives that empower our young minds. Together, let’s create a future where our Youth confidently navigate life’s challenges, armed with the ability to make informed and impactful decisions.

The recent focus on “making good decisions” at Youth Insaka has been an incredible journey filled with enthusiasm, creativity, and inspiring contributions from our boys and girls. We have witnessed their growth and understanding by defining decisions, exploring essential steps, and engaging in group activities.
Empowering our Youth to make sound decisions is vital to shaping their futures. At Youth Insaka, we remain dedicated to their personal growth, fostering critical thinking and inspiring confidence as they navigate the exciting journey of life.

Find our more about our impact, here

Disrupt the cycle of poverty with African Impact Foundation 

Empowering Lives and Shaping a Brighter Future: LETs Program Expands to the Libuyu Community

By Education & Enrichment, News

The African Impact Foundation’s LETs (Life Empowerment Training and Support) program has reached the vibrant and beautiful Libuyu community. This marks a significant milestone in our mission to empower individuals and create lasting change. We are thrilled to share this exciting news and are inspired by the remarkable warm reception and support we have received. Our enthusiasm to make a positive impact is stronger than ever.

Addressing the Needs.

Libuyu, located in Livingstone, Zambia, is a densely populated area that faces unique challenges, particularly in reproductive health. Recognizing the pressing need for support, the Ministry of Health in Zambia has opened clinics in Libuyu to address the high number of pregnancies in the community. Within this context, our LETs program has provided valuable education and support.

Engaging Workshops.

We kicked off our Reproductive Health and Wellbeing Workshops (LETS) with Group 5 this week. The response has been nothing short of inspiring. Over 30 participants eagerly joined us, genuinely wanting to learn and grow together. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our partners at Libuyu Clinic for their invaluable support, contributing to the resounding success of this launch.

Creating an Enriching Experience.

During one of our recent sessions, community members enthusiastically delved into the goals, purpose, and mission of LETs. These workshops are carefully designed to foster interactivity, providing a safe space for open dialogue. We were thrilled to witness the participants’ level of engagement and willingness to share their thoughts, opinions, and insights regarding reproductive health and family planning. We can foster a culture of understanding, support, and informed decision-making through these discussions.

Education as Empowerment.

At the African Impact Foundation, we firmly believe education is the key to empowerment. Through the LETs program, we aim to equip individuals with the knowledge and resources to make informed choices and lead healthier lives. By providing this platform for knowledge-sharing and community building, we are shaping a better future for all.

Expressing Gratitude.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all participating community members in the workshops. Your engagement and enthusiasm inspire us to continue our work with dedication and passion. We also want to acknowledge the unwavering commitment of our dedicated team and partners. Together, we are making a significant difference in the lives of individuals and families in the Libuyu community.

Looking Ahead.

As we continue our LETs journey, we maintain our commitment to empower lives and drive positive change, one workshop at a time. Stay connected for further updates as we extend our reach and leave a lasting impact. Remember, there are no limits to what we can achieve when we unite.

The African Impact Foundation’s LETs program has taken an exciting step forward by extending its reach to the Libuyu community. We empower individuals with the knowledge and resources to make informed decisions about their reproductive health through engaging workshops and open dialogue. We express our deepest gratitude to all who have been a part of this journey so far, and we invite everyone to join us as we work towards a brighter future.

Find our more about our impact, here

Disrupt the cycle of poverty with African Impact Foundation 

Promoting Mental Health Awareness in Communities

By Empowering Communities, News

Good mental health and well-being are essential for individuals to lead fulfilling lives and for communities to thrive. Unfortunately, mental health is still stigmatized in many communities, preventing individuals from seeking help and support when needed. This is particularly true in low-income communities where access to resources is limited, and young people are at risk of turning to vices such as substance abuse, early engagement in sexual activities, and dropping out of school.

The African Impact Foundation recognizes the importance of promoting mental health awareness in communities. Through initiatives such as Youth Insaka and LETS, The African Impact Foundation is working to increase awareness and reduce mental illness stigma in Livingstone and its surrounding communities.

Youth Insaka.

Youth Insaka is a program designed to help young people navigate the challenging time of adolescence. Through weekly workshops held in six schools, learners are taught the importance of managing their emotions and stress to improve their physical and mental well-being. Topics covered include self-care, regular exercise, discussing problems, and eating well.

LETS Gender Empowerment program. 

The LETS program is another initiative that focuses on reproductive and health management essentials. The program runs for about seven weeks, with groups meeting twice weekly for two-hour sessions.

The instructors teach participants the importance of maintaining a healthy state of mind and how it can aid in developing their talents and focusing on their passions.

These programs help young people manage their emotions and stress and emphasize the importance of self-care, regular exercise, and healthy eating. By nourishing the mind with positivity, creativity, and education, we can help individuals and communities thrive.

Find our more about our impact, here

Disrupt the cycle of poverty with African Impact Foundation 

Sponsor a Child, Zambia

By Education & Enrichment

 “The best thing about going to school is that I get to learn new things and it’s good for me because in life I can have a better future because of education and I can live a good life.” – Sponsor a Child Student 

 

Zambia is an exceedingly poor country with 78% of the population living on less than a dollar a day. 47% of children in Zambia do not finish primary school and 65% of the children who do complete primary do not enter secondary school. 41% of Zambian children are forced into labour and almost 1 million girls in Zambia are forced into early marriage every year.

We provide children in Livingstone, Zambia, identified and assessed by our local community partners, with the opportunity to go to school through sponsorship. To date, over 160 children have received an education thanks to the incredible generosity of sponsors.

For every child sponsored, the community of Livingstone takes one step closer to having a brighter and more prosperous future. Without education, children will not have the tools to thrive at future jobs and the cycle of poverty will continue through generations. A formal education gives children the opportunity to create a better life for themselves, their families, and their communities in the future.

Your sponsorship pays school fees for a year, and provides a set of uniform and shoes, a school bag, stationary, exercise books, and necessary textbooks. In addition, 29.5% of the sponsorship fee goes into a fund to improve the quality of education for all students at their school, both now and in the future.

For about a dollar a day you’ll give a child an education and a pathway out of poverty. Make a one time donation or donate monthly and we’ll send you details of the children you have sponsored.

How much does it cost?
Primary School (grades 1 – 7) = $315
Junior School (grades 8 – 9) = $420
Secondary School (grades 10 – 12) = $455

Please email our Sponsor a Child Coordinator in Livingstone, Sharon, on zsac@africanimpactfoundation.org for more information.

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