We drove to Nyimba for about 4 hours and we were welcomed by scenes of a quiet town that had government and NGO vehicles arriving in preparation for the special day. The locals were hospitable and helped us find our way around very swiftly.

On Monday, 30th June, we drove to the venue of the commemorations which was Hoffmeyer Boys High School. It is situated 16 kilometres from Nyimba town. The sight of young people dressed in brigade outfits and locals riding to the location on bicycles and some on foot, really amazed me. The event was opened with speeches and remarks from various members of local government and the Chairman of the NAC Bishop Joshua Banda.

The event featured short plays, songs, traditional dances and messages on HIV and AIDS from the important delegates. What fascinated me the most was a group of kids who looked to be aged below 10, performing a play which encouraged people to get tested and beware of HIV and AIDS.

When I had a chance to speak with my fellow ambassador, we touched on issues like gender based violence, male circumcision and alcohol abuse that men need to change so we can be a better generation. I also emphasized on the free HIV talk line 990 and U-Report Zambia, which is a free SMS based service that allows people to interact with counsellors confidentially. I encouraged the young people to join by sending JOIN to 878 so we cannot die inside with misconceptions about HIV and Aids and other health related issues.

Having the opportunity to speak on the same platform as the Deputy Minister was a great experience for me. I felt humbled and greatly overwhelmed by the participation of the locals in the proceedings as the stands that were on the grounds provided lots of information and services. Also, seeing young people active in the fight against HIV and AIDS and also the backing of the government in the festivities was a joy for me. Volunteers from around the world also enjoyed the event even though some of the content was in the local language.

For me, being an ambassador is not just being the face in the media and relaying the messages that we have been given to me to disseminate. It is a duty for me to lead by example, to learn, to be open minded and to encourage youths around Zambia and Africa as a whole. We are the key to socio-economic development, and being the youngest ambassador, it is a privilege to be able to learn life skills from very important and influential men in society.