A volunteer with a passion - the story of Humphrey Zulu

Three years ago Humphrey Zulu was a volunteer for the Anti Voter Apathy Project (AVAP). Then, he helped the organisation in the Voter Education Campaigns. Today he works as their Youth Mobilization and Campaigns Officer.

Humphrey Zulu with students from UNZA after a governance talk. Photo: Brenda Bukova

Humphrey is tall, dark in complexion and wearing gray trousers, a purple striped shirt and a neck tie. As he speaks, he smiles shyly. “I have a great passion for young people”, he admits. Three years ago, Humphrey Zulu was just like any other Zambian youth with very little knowledge of democracy and good governance. He loved reading motivational books, listening to music and writing motivational articles.  Born in Zambia’s Monze District in Southern Province, he later attended the University of Zambia where he studied a certificate in Law. However, he always had a desire to volunteer in all aspects of his life, which was evident already in his university days, where he joined Student Partnership Worldwide, an international student body, as a volunteer peer educator. And now his passion for young people has lead him down a different path of life than he originally envisioned. From being a volunteer with AVAP, he is now employed to talk to other youths.

“I never thought I would reach this far in terms of youth activism” says the visibly happy Humphrey. “I have tremendously developed my public speaking abilities through my new appointment as Youth Mobilization and Campaigns Programme Officer. I can now confidently stand up and educate youths on the core values of good governance.”

As Youth Mobilization and Campaigns Officer he is in charge of all issues concerned with youth’s participation in governance issues. So far he has successfully held a number of debates and governance forums in Secondary Schools and Universities. He has enlightened many young people on the importance of voting and the need to get their National Registration Cards in the light of the coming 2011 tripartite elections.

“Persistent breaks resistance”, he says smiling. “I am glad of the achievements I have scored so far”.