Have you ever imagined what a sponsored child could achieve in the future? Across Zambia, and beyond, there are countless inspiring stories of ChildFund graduates who have broken the cycle of poverty. Here are just 5 remarkable individuals who, thanks to their generous sponsors, have been empowered to reach their full potential.

Dr. Mweene Nseluke, Director of Health, Chongwe District

Dr. Mweene Nseluke’s story is a powerful reminder of what is possible when children are given the right opportunities. Born and raised in the Chainda community of Chongwe, his early life was shaped by poverty and uncertainty. “Living in a mudbrick, grass-thatched house, I never thought I would have the opportunity to go to school, let alone reach this level in life,” he recalls. Despite the odds, Dr. Nseluke’s life changed dramatically when he was enrolled in ChildFund’s Sponsorship Program.

The program provided him with the school supplies, tuition, and encouragement he needed to thrive. “Being a sponsored child meant that all my school requirements were taken care of by ChildFund. My only task was to study hard and work toward breaking the cycle of poverty.”

Dr. Nseluke’s determination and academic excellence carried him through both primary and secondary school. However, after completing Grade 12, his sponsorship ended, and his family faced new financial hurdles as he pursued his dream of becoming a doctor. Refusing to give up, he reached out to ChildFund once more. Through ChildFund’s tertiary education assistance program, supporting over 500 youth annually, he enrolled at the University of Zambia to study medicine. This pivotal support allowed him to achieve what once seemed impossible: becoming a medical doctor.

Today, Dr. Nseluke is not only a physician but also the Director of Health for Chongwe District, overseeing multiple health centers, including the one serving his childhood community. His journey has come full circle, and he is now a beacon of hope and inspiration to the next generation. “I am who I am today because of ChildFund. Words cannot fully express my gratitude. From my early years in primary school to my completion of medical studies at the University of Zambia, ChildFund was there for me. Thank you, ChildFund.”

Dr. Nseluke remains deeply connected to ChildFund and the Chongwe Child Development Agency. He is a regular guest at youth events, where he shares his story to motivate and mentor young people. “I was serving as a project officer when Dr. Nseluke was just an enrolled child. I helped write and send his letters to his sponsor. Today, I’m proud to see him become our Director of Health here in Chongwe,” said Green Makamo, Federation Manager for Chongwe Child Development Agency. Since its inception in 1983 as ChildFund’s first operational area in Zambia, the Chongwe agency has supported over 10,000 children, many of whom, like Dr. Nseluke, have gone on to live productive, impactful lives.

Gracious Soko Hamatala – A committed community leader

Hamatala, born and raised in Mumbwa District, overcame the harsh realities of poverty and an absent parental presence, being raised by his grandmother who struggled to meet even his basic educational needs. “I am an only child and was brought up by my grandmother as my parents never married,” he shared. “My teacher noticed that I lacked most of the things like books, pencils and decided to introduce me to Christian Children’s Fund (now ChildFund). This was the beginning of a turning point in my life.” Receiving support, letters, and small gifts from his sponsor gave him a sense of belonging and renewed purpose.

With the support and motivation he gained through ChildFund, Hamatala excelled in school, eventually becoming the best student at Serenje Boys Secondary School and the only one in his class to be accepted at the University of Zambia, where he studied Agricultural Economics.

“I knew that I wanted to drive myself out of poverty and I had no one to rely on from my family,” he said. After working in prestigious institutions, including Barclays Bank (now ABSA), Hamatala made a bold decision to resign and return to Mumbwa to help children facing the same struggles he once endured. “How many people would write off a child that was like me? But through the ChildFund sponsorship program, my life was changed,” he said, remembering how he used to carry his sponsor’s photo as a constant reminder of hope and opportunity.

Now serving as Council Chairperson in Mumbwa, Hamatala continues to work closely with ChildFund and Mumbwa Child Development Agency, advocating responsible use of sponsorship resources by current beneficiaries. “My only plea is that every child and family remain accountable and use whatever resources they receive to better their lives.” Married with five children and running businesses that employ vulnerable youth, Hamatala has set his sights on representing Mumbwa as Area Member of Parliament in the 2026 elections, proving that one act of kindness can indeed transform a life and a community.

Moses Banda – the Hospitality Leader

Moses didn’t always envision himself in a suit, managing large-scale events at one of Lusaka’s top hotels. His journey into the hospitality industry began humbly as a Grade 11 student at Northmead Secondary School working part-time at Suwilanji Gardens in Kalundu. “I didn’t know much about hospitality back then,” Moses recalls. “But once I started working in the field, I knew it was where I belonged. I loved the energy of the kitchen, the events, and the people.” That early exposure sparked a passion that would shape his future.

The foundation for Moses’ success was laid long before that first job. He was a child sponsored under ChildFund, supported through the Lusaka Child Development Agency (LCDA), from Grade One through university. “I honestly don’t know where I’d be without ChildFund and my sponsor,” he says. “They made sure I stayed in school. They gave me school supplies, mentorship, and reminded me that I could become something. That made all the difference.” With support that extended beyond the classroom, Moses was empowered to stay focused and dream big.

ChildFund’s commitment to long-term support and child well-being has created pathways for children like Moses to succeed. “Children like Moses are the reason we do what we do,” says Mwakamui Malambo, Manager of LCDA. “Our goal has always been to ensure that children not only stay in school but also dream big and believe in their potential.” After secondary school, Moses pursued hospitality full-time, balancing work and study, and continuously upgrading his skills. “The journey wasn’t always easy,” he says, “but I had the drive and the opportunity to keep learning.”

Today, Moses is the Manager of Meetings and Events Operations at a leading hotel in Lusaka. From weddings to corporate events, he helps create memorable experiences for clients every day. “What I enjoy most about my work is seeing the results, the smiles, the appreciation, and knowing I played a part in someone’s special day.” Looking back, he remains grateful for the steady support that made his journey possible. His message to young people in ChildFund’s programs is clear: “Use the opportunity you have. Focus on your education and keep pushing forward. With hard work, you can go far, just like I did.”

Wampemba Chifunda – the midwife who is helping to save lives

In the remote village of Chikondwelelo in Luangwa District, dreams are often buried beneath hardship, but for Wampemba Chifunda, hope took root early. Once a young boy herding goats given to his family through ChildFund’s Pass-On Goat Restocking Project, Wampemba’s life changed dramatically when he was enrolled in ChildFund’s sponsorship program in Grade 4.

“Growing up in my village was fun but also tough,” he reflects. “Sometimes it felt like survival itself was a full-time job.” Yet amid these struggles, a spark of possibility was lit.That spark grew brighter with consistent support from his sponsor. With school supplies, clothing, and encouragement to value education, Wampemba began to dream beyond the boundaries of the fields and riverbanks of Luangwa. “That sponsorship changed my life,” he says.

“We were constantly sensitized on the importance of education and literacy.” Despite hardships, including a lack of access to a laptop at nursing school, Wampemba’s sponsor stepped in once again, ensuring he had the tools he needed to succeed.

In 2024, Wampemba graduated with a diploma in Midwifery and is now volunteering at Katondwe Health Centre. His dedication was tested one night when a pregnant woman arrived unconscious and bleeding. With resolve, Wampemba stabilized her before doctors could take over. Both mother and baby survived. This was a moment that solidified his calling. “It’s not about money for me,” he says. “It’s about saving lives and giving hope to others, just like I was given.”

Wampemba is of the many children that have been impacted through ChildFund’s sponsorship model, which has supported over 28,000 children across Zambia. “When children like Wampemba are given a chance through sponsorship, we see transformation, not just in the child, but in their entire community,” says Norman Luvera, ChildFund’s Sponsorship Coordinator in Luangwa.

Daniel Mwanza – a passionate public health nurse

Daniel was only 2 years old when he was enrolled in ChildFund’s sponsorship program. Growing up in a household with no stable income, his future was uncertain. “I grew up in a home where we barely had enough to get by,” Daniel recalls.

“But ChildFund became part of my life. They supported me every step of the way.” Through consistent sponsorship and access to essential services, Daniel received support from early childhood through to university, where he earned a nursing degree in 2022.

Today, Daniel is a public health nurse at a clinic supported by ChildFund in Luangwa District. Every day, he provides care and guidance to people in the same community where he was once a child in need. His journey now serves as a source of motivation for others. “I always encourage children in my village to believe in themselves. Your background doesn’t define your future. With support and hard work, every child can achieve their potential,” he says.

Daniel’s commitment to his community extends beyond healthcare. He is now a passionate advocate for youth, calling for greater support and investment in children’s futures. “My dream is to see more children supported like I was. That’s how we transform our communities and Luangwa as a whole,” he shares. His life stands as a clear example of what is possible when children are given the tools to succeed.

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