Independent (Madalitso Mbewe)

I am a passionate Zambian educator, youth leader, and researcher works at the intersection of education, climate resilience, and social impact. This professional teaches Business Studies, Commerce, and Principles of Accounts at secondary school level, developing lesson plans, mentoring students, and promoting financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and life skills among young people. Their classroom practice is built on the belief that quality education is the foundation of sustainable development and that every learner, regardless of background or learning style, deserves equal access to opportunities. Beyond teaching, this individual is deeply engaged in research and community projects that address urgent challenges affecting vulnerable populations. They have contributed to national-level studies such as the National Youth Task Research on the socio-economic impacts of COVID-19, focusing on how climate-induced disruptions affect early childhood development. They also supported the National AIDS Spending Assessment (NASA) under the National HIV/AIDS/STI/TB Council, gaining experience in health resource allocation and community services. Current fellowship applications, including “Psychosocial Counseling on Early Childhood Development in Climate Emergencies: A Case Study of Kaoma District,” reflect a commitment to evidence-based solutions for children’s wellbeing in crisis contexts. This professional is equally active in youth leadership and climate action. As the 2025 Remote Regional Coordinator for the Healthy and Environment-friendly Youth (HEY) Campaign, powered by the Ashley Lashley Foundation and UNICEF, they recruit and mobilize young ambassadors, organize climate and health initiatives, and raise awareness through media campaigns. Their work bridges three key pillars—Youth & the Environment, Youth & Health, and Youth & Gender—ensuring that young people are equipped to lead change in their own communities. They also participated in the National Geographic + The Nature Conservancy Remote Externship on freshwater conservation, researching water scarcity challenges in Zambia and highlighting their impact on early childhood development. In addition, this individual is an Africa Dyslexia Fellow, learning and advocating for low-cost, community-based solutions to support learners with dyslexia. This reflects an inclusive approach to education and an ability to integrate global best practices into local contexts. Outside formal employment, they are building small enterprises—such as a micro-loaning business and farming maize and onions—to model entrepreneurship for young people and support community initiatives. Across all these roles, there is a consistent pattern: identifying pressing social or environmental problems, mobilizing stakeholders, and implementing practical interventions. The work highlights the power of youth leadership, education, and research in advancing climate justice, health equity, and sustainable livelihoods. Whether in a classroom, a research project, or a community campaign, this individual brings dedication, collaboration, and a vision of a more resilient and inclusive future for Zambia and beyond.