Supporting Young People Beyond Academics: Kelly’s Growth at AYC
By Annabel Mumba
Annabel Mumba is AYC’s Donor Relations Coordinator. She is a Scholarship Fund recipient, and a graduate of Mulungushi University with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications (Journalism), and also one of our Success Stories.
Co-written by Pamela O’Brien, African Education Program’s Development Director, who is mentoring Annabel.
Kelly smiles for the camera.
Every young person who walks through our doors comes with hope, hope to improve in school, to be supported, and to dream a little bigger. But what unfolds goes far beyond academics. It becomes a journey of growth, resilience, and self-discovery. Kelly’s story is one of those journeys: a powerful reflection of determination and the life-changing impact of opportunity.
When Kelly first arrived at Amos Youth Centre (AYC) in January 2019, he was a Grade 7 student seeking academic support, yet quietly carrying the weight of uncertainty about his future. Introduced by friends who were already part of the Learning & Leadership Centre, he came hoping to improve his performance in school. At the time, however, his challenges extended far beyond the classroom.
At home, financial struggles made the future feel uncertain. His father was not working, and even basic school needs, like a new pair of shoes, were difficult to afford. As he approached the end of Grade 7, one question stayed with him: what would happen next?
“I was worried about where my parents would get the money to pay for my Grade 8 fees,” he recalls. Before the introduction of free education in Zambia, school fees were mandatory, and many could not afford them.
Joining AYC Marked a Turning Point
Kelly had always been a capable student, but he lacked the consistent guidance needed to reach his potential fully. At AYC, he found a structured and supportive learning environment where he could ask questions freely and receive one-on-one academic support. Subjects like Mathematics, which once felt challenging, gradually became more manageable with the help of dedicated tutors.
AYC played an even greater significant role in 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted learning. While many students fell behind during school closures, Kelly experienced a different reality. Through AYC’s educational support packs and continued mentorship, he was able to keep learning and even strengthen his understanding.
Kelly enjoyed learning and leadership classes at AYC.
“AYC helped me learn ahead of time. I learnt topics that I wasn’t even learning at school. I had teachers that were helping me in Mathematics, English, and all the sciences,” he shares. “That support improved my performance.”
But Kelly’s growth at AYC went beyond academics. Through activities such as the Spelling Bee and the Conservation Club, he discovered new interests and built confidence. His appreciation for nature grew, and he began developing skills in communication, teamwork, and self-expression.
At the same time, AYC’s mentorship and mental health support played a key role in shaping who he was becoming. Over time, he grew into a more confident and self-aware individual.
“Before joining AYC, I had low self-esteem,” he says. “But through the mentorship and clubs, I came out of my shell.”
This personal growth became evident in the leadership roles he began to take on. At school, he served as an academic prefect, supporting fellow students and contributing to a culture of excellence. Within AYC, he continued to step forward as a young leader, showing initiative and responsibility.
A New Beginning
Kelly enjoyed being a Youth Ambassador at The Kia Garden.
Perhaps one of the most defining moments in his journey came after completing high school, when he became a Youth Ambassador at the Kia Garden, AYC’s Urban Gardening & Permaculture Learning Space. Being selected for this role marked a significant milestone, allowing him to give back while continuing to grow.
“That was the best moment of my life,” he says. “I was nervous, but excited.”
As a Youth Ambassador, Kelly was trained to teach peers and learners about urban gardening, bio-fabrication, and permaculture. He discovered that leadership, real leadership, is not about titles. It is about presence, understanding, and showing up for the people you serve.
"Being a leader is not just a title," he said. "You have to be there for everyone. It is not all about controlling people but also being involved."
At home, his transformation has been just as visible.
His father, Mr. Victor Mweemba, reflects on the early challenges their family faced, including financial hardship and limited academic support. Over time, he began to see clear changes, not only in Kelly’s academic performance, but also in his focus, discipline, and relationships.
“Kelly found the right friends, friends who encouraged him to study,” his father shares. “I now see how AYC gave him direction and purpose.”
The organisation also supported the family during the 2020 Covid-19 pandemic by providing food assistance and regular phone calls, strengthening their trust and connection with AYC during a difficult time.
As part of AYC’s College Prep Program, a year-long program where high school graduates are equipped with the tools and skills needed to transition to higher education and independent life, Kelly will be able to make new friends, manage stress, write a resume, and face interviews, all because of the sessions he had.
By the end of 2026, Kelly will be studying for a Bachelor of Science in Banking and Finance at Copperbelt University, moving closer to his long-term goal of building a career in the banking sector.
“I’ve always wanted to work in a bank,” he says. “One day, I want to become a Bank Governor.”
Despite how far he has come, Kelly remains deeply connected to AYC. What began as a place for academic support has become something much more meaningful, a second home where he found encouragement, opportunity, and belonging.
“AYC is my second home,” he reflects. “It’s where I find motivation and comfort.”
Now, as he gives back through leadership and mentorship, he is helping to shape the journeys of others, just as his own was shaped.
Kelly’s story is a powerful reminder that when young people are supported not just academically, but holistically, they are able to rise above uncertainty and step confidently into their future.
