At Junior Achievement (JA) Zambia, our mission is to empower young people with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to succeed in a rapidly changing world. This year, four exceptional students from Kabulonga Girls Secondary School proved the power of this mission by excelling in the JA Zambia Company Program and earning the opportunity to represent Zambia at the continental competition in Mauritius. Their journey has not only showcased their talents but also opened doors to even greater achievements, including the prestigious GIRLS LEAD award.
From Zambia to Mauritius: Competing on a Global Stage
The students, all in grades 10 and 11, participated in the JA Zambia Company Program, which equips young learners with essential business skills, financial literacy, and innovative thinking. Through hands-on experience, they learned how to conceptualize, start, and manage their own business ventures.
Their hard work and determination culminated in the creation of an innovative business project that stood out at the national level. This achievement earned them the honor of representing Zambia at the continental competition in Mauritius, where they competed against the brightest young minds from across Africa.
In Mauritius, the Kabulonga Girls impressed the judges with their ingenuity, teamwork, and ability to articulate their business vision. Their participation was not just about competition but also about networking, learning from peers, and gaining exposure to diverse ideas and approaches.
Winning the GIRLS LEAD Award
Their outstanding performance in Mauritius was recognized with the prestigious GIRLS LEAD award, a distinction given to teams that demonstrate exceptional leadership, creativity, and impact. This award is a testament to their dedication and the transformative power of JA Zambia’s programs.
The GIRLS LEAD award also comes with an exciting opportunity: an invitation to travel to Ghana in March to participate in a global leadership summit. This summit will provide the girls with a platform to further develop their skills, share their experiences, and engage with global leaders in business and education.
The Impact of the JA Zambia Company Program
The success of the Kabulonga Girls team highlights the transformative impact of the JA Zambia Company Program. Designed for students in grades 10 and 11, the program provides:
- Practical Business Skills: Students learn the fundamentals of running a business, from ideation and planning to execution and marketing.
- Financial Literacy: The program teaches students how to manage finances effectively, a critical skill for both personal and professional success.
- Innovation and Problem-Solving: Students are encouraged to think creatively and develop solutions to real-world challenges.
- Leadership and Teamwork: By working in teams, students enhance their ability to lead, collaborate, and communicate effectively.
For the Kabulonga Girls, these lessons were more than theoretical; they were tools they used to create a successful business project and compete on an international stage.
Inspiring the Next Generation
The journey of these four young women is an inspiration to their peers and a demonstration of the potential within Zambia’s youth. It’s also a testament to the importance of programs like JA Zambia’s Company Program in shaping future leaders and innovators.
Their success underscores the need for continued support from partners, sponsors, and the community. By investing in youth programs, we can create more opportunities for young people to achieve their dreams and contribute to Zambia’s growth and development.
Looking Ahead
As the Kabulonga Girls prepare for their trip to Ghana, JA Zambia is proud to support their journey and celebrate their achievements. We are confident that their experience in Ghana will further enrich their skills and broaden their horizons.
To all young Zambians, their story is a reminder: With hard work, innovation, and the right opportunities, the sky is the limit.
Stay tuned as we follow the journey of these incredible young leaders and continue to empower the youth of Zambia through transformative programs. Together, we can build a brighter future.
