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From struggle to triumph | A learner’s journey to academic excellence
Posted by Khanyi Khuzwayo 
on
11 December 2024, 15:15
SAST
Zabeta Ngoma is a determined Grade 10 pupil at Kapiri Day Secondary School, a rural school in the Kapiri District in Zambia. Having shown great promise academically, she was confronted by a challenge that threatened her scholastic journey.
Every day, Zabeta had to walk five kilometres to and then back from school as her family couldn’t afford the bus fare. The arduous trek was taking a toll on her mental wellbeing, and she was deeply unhappy. Then one day she attended a FutureLife-Now! club in which she found solace among friends and in the FutureLife-Now! facilitator, Renard Mwiinga.
The topic that day was mental health, and during the session, Renard sensed Zabeta’s distress. He created a safe space for her to unburden herself, and she shared her story with him. Through his empathetic listening, Renard helped Zabeta to confront her emotions, develop coping strategies and to recognise her own resilience. This session marked the beginning of Zabeta’s transformative journey toward mental wellness.
But Renard also took practical steps to find a solution for Zabeta. With her permission, he shared her story with the school’s management. On receiving confirmation from her Guidance teacher that Zabeta’s academic promise was threatened by her mental distress, the headteacher asked Renard for a formal letter requesting assistance for Zabeta.
In his letter, Renard requested that Zabeta be allowed to use the school bus until she finished school at the end of Grade 12. The request was approved and Zabeta was free to focus on her studies. She said the decision released her from a significant burden.
I was struggling to cope with daily challenges, but thanks to Renard and FutureLife-Now! I found the strength to keep going. I learned seeking help is a sign of courage, not weakness. I’m grateful for the support and guidance, and I hope my story inspires others to seek help.
Now that her transportation challenge has been resolved, Zabeta’s mental wellbeing has improved significantly. Moreover, her academic performance has again soared. She has become an active member of the FutureLife-Now! club, inspiring fellow students with her resilience and determination.
Zabeta’s story serves as a testament to the power of seeking help, supportive communities and of the human capacity for growth. Zabeta now inspires others by sharing her experiences and encouraging them to seek help when needed. – Chewe Mulenga. FutureLife-Now! country manager
