Our first graduation event for the Mbedza Youth Leadership Award Scheme
December 14th saw Mbedza hold an inspiring event - our first ever group of 30 young people graduated having completed the requirements of the Mbedza Youth Leadership Award Scheme. The scheme was inspired by the Archbishop of York’s Leadership Award Scheme in the UK. Manor Church of England Academy based in York were pioneers in this award scheme in 2011 and continue to be one of our significant sponsors of Mbedza’s work in Malawi as well as inspirers.
The scheme is designed to encourage young people to be role models of service in their community and these students demonstrated that through several activities. Activities incuded cleaning the local market and performing drama in the community to educate young people about HIV and sex and relationships. The scheme encourages the development of a skill and for some that was achieved through sports or arts and drama. Another element is a group project and this included a garden project. Students also receive education and training in sex and relationships and mental health awareness.
Dalitso Muronya guest of honor, who is the Executive Director and Founder of Tigwilizane center for Democracy and Development, urged the young leaders to be the change they want to see in their society. In his speech he said ‘’may you be the leaders who bring about positive change, and may you always remember that the true measure of success is not what you achieve, but how you use your achievements to make the world a better place. ‘’
We were also grateful to have Mwayi Mpinganjira who is the country director for Sparkle Foundation . Mwayi lost her dad at the age of 10 and circumstances forced her to drop out of school because her mother could not afford to send her back to school. In her remarks she said , making the right decisions as young people has the power to shape one’s future. A greater leader knows how to solve critical issues, manage time and leave room for improvement, because the world is evolving.
As the ceremony progressed, Ruth Chavula, a social worker at Zomba central hospital, took to the stage to deliver a speech on mental health and leadership among young individuals. Her message emphasized the importance of prioritizing mental well-being, encouraging the graduands to take care of their mental health as they navigate the challenges of life. Ruth's words served as a timely reminder of the need to address mental health issues, which are overlooked in most cases.
We also had a special guest in the from of one of Malawi’s rising stars in the music field - Guntolah. The Songani Centre grounds were packed and the atmosphere was electric.
