In the heart of Kabanana, Lusaka, lives 28-year-old Tina Nkhoswe, a soft-spoken but determined young woman whose life took a transformative turn when she joined ADRA Zambia as a volunteer in 2021. Living with her parents and two siblings, Tina’s quiet strength and eagerness to learn have made her an inspiring figure in her community.
Tina’s journey began during the implementation of the METRO 1 Project, which opened her eyes to new conversations and experiences. “I learnt things we couldn’t talk about openly before,” she says. “Through this project, I got to meet many people, exchange ideas, and grow.”
Her involvement didn’t stop there. She went on to volunteer with METRO 2 and the Cholera Response Project, gaining deeper insights into the unique challenges facing girls and women in vulnerable communities. “From my experience, I saw how important it is to have safe and private facilities for girls in schools — like showers and proper bathrooms. These things matter more than we realize.”
One of her most defining moments came during the Cholera Response efforts. “Before, I was sceptical about vaccines. But through the work we did in the community, talking to people with many misconceptions, I challenged myself to learn the facts. That gave me the courage to get vaccinated and also help others understand,” Tina recalls.
Her dedication led to an exciting opportunity, a three-month contract under an EU-funded volunteer programme, where she was a Nyanja tutor to a foreign volunteer. “It was an awesome experience,” she says with a bright smile. “I discovered I could teach, something I never thought I had in me. We didn’t just form a tutor-student relationship; we became real friends. They even visited my home, and we would exchange visits like family.”
With the help of her neighbour, who is a retired teacher, Tina learned how to create lesson plans and improve her teaching skills. “My neighbours and parents are so proud of me. They were so happy to know I was tutoring a foreigner. It made me feel valued.”
Beyond personal development, volunteering helped Tina support her family financially. “The small support I received taught me financial discipline. I was able to help with basic household needs. It made me realize how much I could do, even with little.”
What stands out most for Tina about ADRA? “It’s the people,” she says. “Everyone is friendly, open, and willing to help. That’s what makes the experience so rich.”
Though she doesn’t have a permanent job yet, Tina is choosing to continue volunteering while waiting to pursue her academic career. “For me, this is not time wasted. I’m gaining experience, building my CV, and learning things I wouldn’t learn anywhere else.”
With her quiet determination and open heart, Tina Nkhoswe embodies the spirit of service and resilience. Her journey with ADRA is not just about giving back, it’s about stepping forward into her purpose, one courageous step at a time.
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