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Hi Friends. I am excited to introduce you to another student we are sponsoring to send to university through the fundraiser I am organizing. After reading his story, please share with others and considering making a donation.

As I prepare to share my story, I am reminded of the wise words of my grandfather, “Education is the key to unlocking the chains of poverty.”

My name is Sunday Makungu. I was raised by my grandparents in Sinde, a rural village in the Southern Province of Zambia. I never knew my father. My mother separated from him before I was born. Growing up in Sinde, I saw firsthand the struggles my family faced. My grandfather toiled to provide for our family, often venturing into the forest to make charcoal to sell to make money to provide food for our family. My mother is a hardworking woman. She goes door to door and on the streets to sell tomatoes to pay for basic needs. Her resilience and dedication inspire me every day. Despite facing numerous challenges, she has always encouraged me to pursue my educational dreams.

Despite these challenges, my passion for education never wavered. After passing my grade 9 exams, financial constraints forced me to drop out of school for two years. I felt awful seeing my classmates continue their education without me. In 2021, Zambia introduced free education, and with my local church’s support, I could re-enroll at Nakatindi Secondary School at 19 years old.

Through sheer determination, I completed high school at 21, often staying away from school to do piecework, to buy books, and meet other basic needs. My journey was challenging, but my resolve never wavered. My love of sports and commitment to a local football team helped me to develop discipline and perseverance to juggle academics and work.  

My experiences as a student-mentor with U.S. Peace Corps volunteers Jessy and Murphy have instilled invaluable leadership skills and a desire to drive positive change in my community. I participated in two Boys Respecting Others (BRO) camps and two debate programs. Jessy and Murphy recognized my potential and selected me to be a mentor. As a mentor, I facilitated talks about life skills, communication skills, and self-confidence.

This sponsorship will change my life and help me achieve my dreams. I aspire to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Economics at the University of Zambia, to drive positive change in my community. As an economist, I envision myself influencing policies, creating job opportunities, and supporting vulnerable individuals.

Through this sponsorship, you will empower me to break the cycle of poverty and support my family.

-Sunda Makungu

Learn more about my fundraiser project here.