From Shy Girl to Youth Empowerment Champion: Agness Banda’s Journey
Growing up in Lundazi, Agness Banda never imagined she would one day stand before groups of young people, confidently teaching and inspiring change. Once a shy girl, she has now become a passionate youth empowerment officer with Women for Change in partnership with VIDEA, working tirelessly to educate and uplift rural communities.
Agness’ journey began with her own education. She graduated as a teacher in 2020, a milestone she achieved with the support of VIDEA. Afterward, she interned with the same organization, which deepened her understanding of community development and ignited her passion for youth empowerment. Today, she and her team run the Indigenous Knowledge to Poweri project, a platform for sharing knowledge on vital issues such as climate change, gender equality, mental health and sexual reproductive health rights (SRHR).
However, bringing these conversations into communities is not always easy. Some topics, like family planning for young girls, are met with resistance. “This is a Christian nation, and many believe that girls should only access family planning when they get married,” Agness explains. “But the reality is, some girls are already sexually active, and without access to these services, they are at risk of early pregnancies.” Instead of avoiding difficult discussions, Agness and her team engage community members, starting with those most opposed to change, helping them understand the importance of informed choices for young people.
The impact of their work is visible. “We now see gender equality in action,” Agness says proudly. “Even in kitchens where women used to work alone, men are now participating.” Through their efforts, they are transforming mindsets across nine communities, including Chikolongo, which is 43 km from town. To reach these areas, Agness has taken up cycling, something she started in December. “It’s been an amazing journey. You fall, get up, and continue. The protective gear really helps,” she laughs.
For Agness, empowering young people is more than just a job, it’s her passion. “When I’m not in the field, life feels boring. This work has become a part of me.” Looking back, she sees how much she has grown. “If you asked people who knew me before, they would tell you I was a shy person. But now, I can speak to youths, and I love what I do.”
Her advice to young people is simple: Work hard, stay focused, and be open to opportunities beyond your comfort zone. “Everyone has the potential to be a leader,” she says. “I never thought I would be where I am today, but here I am, giving back to the community that raised me.”
Agness Banda is proof that growth comes from stepping out of your comfort zone and that even the shyest voices can become powerful agents of change.