Food Security & Livelihoods

Many youth in Zambia, like many across developing nations, face a range of challenges. Limited employment opportunities, inadequate skills training, restricted participation in civic affairs, and lack of access to finance hinder their growth. The gap between education, skills, and labor market demands further exacerbates issues like exploitation, lack of experience, nepotism, and corruption in the job market. Without proper training and mentorship, many young people struggle to transition smoothly into adulthood.

Gaudensia was born and raised in Luangwa District, about 320 kilometers east of Lusaka, as the sixth of ten children in a family grappling with extreme poverty. Her parents were subsistence farmers, relying on small-scale agriculture to feed their family. However, their harvests were often insufficient, leaving them vulnerable to food shortages, especially during the rainy season. The idea of education seemed unattainable until ChildFund intervened, offering a life-changing opportunity.

“I was fortunate to be enrolled in the program here in Luangwa, which became a turning point in my life. Through the program, my parents received the support they needed to keep me in school, and I was provided with essential learning materials. Watching my parents struggle to feed the family fueled my determination to complete my education,” Gaudensia recalls.
Despite her strong academic performance in primary school, Gaudensia’s journey faced a major setback. After qualifying for secondary school, she became pregnant in ninth grade and had to drop out, putting her dreams on hold.

Go Back to School Campaign

Through ChildFund’s Go Back to School Campaign, Gaudensia found renewed hope. The program offered counseling and support, helping her understand that pregnancy did not have to end her education. “With extensive counseling from ChildFund staff, I realized that my future was not lost. I had two options: return to school or pursue skills training to support my child. I chose skills training,” she explains.

Gaudensia was one of over 500 young people supported by ChildFund to pursue tertiary education. She applied to Thorn Park Skills Training Center and completed her plumbing certification two years ago. “I wanted to do something different and challenging, so I chose plumbing,” she shares proudly. “It was tough at first, but now I love what I do. And I want to be the best plumber in this district.”
After earning her certificate, Gaudensia returned to her community, where she now works as a plumber on the very first skills training center being constructed by ChildFund in Luangwa District. “I’m honored to be part of this project. My dream is to become a lecturer here once the center is completed,” she says.

Supporting Other Girls

Gaudensia is deeply committed to inspiring other girls in her community and beyond to break free from the traditional gender roles that often limit their aspirations. Having faced her own challenges, including the pressure of being a young mother and overcoming societal expectations, Gaudensia is passionate about empowering other girls to pursue careers in fields traditionally dominated by men, like plumbing.

“Plumbing is not just for men. Girls can do it too,” she confidently states. “When I first started my training, people would say, ‘That’s a man’s job,’ but I didn’t listen. I want other girls to know that they can follow their dreams, no matter what others might say or think. The only limit is the one you set for yourself.”

Gaudensia’s message is clear: girls should never feel restricted by stereotypes or cultural expectations. “I want to tell other girls that they should never think a job is only for men,” she continues. “Whether it’s plumbing, engineering, or any other profession, you can do it if you work hard and love what you do. The path might be tough, but you can achieve anything if you believe in yourself and don’t give up.”

By sharing her story and the lessons she’s learned, Gaudensia is determined to be a role model for the next generation of girls. She hopes to inspire them to pursue careers that bring them fulfillment, financial independence, and the confidence to take on the world.

ChildFund has already made arrangements for Gaudensia to join the teaching staff once the center becomes operational in 2026. Gaudensia’s eyes are now set on becoming a lecturer at the Skills Training Center in Luangwa, where she can inspire and mentor and skill the next generation of young people, especially girls. Because girls, just like boys, can.