Pestalozzi Zambia Alumni

18/08/2026

18/08/2026

📚Alumni Spotlight ⭐️💫

CONGRATULATIONS, Blessings Mukandabantu! 🎉👏

We are delighted to celebrate Blessings Mukandabantu, our 2025 Pestalozzi Alumna, on securing a fully funded Mastercard Foundation scholarship to pursue a BSc. in International Business at Africa Leadership University (ALU) in Rwanda.

Blessings departed for Kigali on Saturday, 15th August, to begin this exciting new chapter of her academic journey at the prestigious institution.

Your dedication, hard work and determination have brought you this far, and we are incredibly proud of your achievement. We wish you every success in your studies and beyond. May this new chapter open doors to greater opportunities, meaningful impact and countless achievements.

Go forth and shine, Blessings! 🌍🎓✨

Congratulations once again, and we look forward to celebrating many more milestones with you! ❤️

05/08/2026

Big shout out to my new rising fans!

Michael Belenge

05/08/2026

🌟 Alumni Spotlight Wednesday,Celebrating Resilience, Purpose & Perseverance 🌟

My name is Blessings Bwalya.

In 2013, at the age of 11, I joined Pestalozzi Children's Trust from rural Mansa after receiving a merit scholarship to study from Grade 5 to Grade 12. Coming from an underprivileged family, that scholarship became the opportunity that changed the course of my life.

The transition was not easy. It was my first time living away from home, and I struggled with the English language because I came from a different linguistic background. Everything felt unfamiliar, but through faith, determination, and hard work, I adapted and found my place.

My years at Pestalozzi were about much more than academics. The values of Head, Heart, and Hands became the foundation of who I am today.

🧠 Head taught me to think critically and develop a lifelong love for learning.

❤️ Heart taught me compassion, integrity, and the importance of serving others.

🙌 Hands taught me discipline, responsibility, and that there is dignity in every honest piece of work.

Holding on to these values, and never forgetting where I came from, I completed Grade 12 in 2020 with 12 points.

After graduation, life presented new challenges. Without funding for tertiary education, I returned to my village to help my family with subsistence farming. My parents could not afford to sponsor my studies, and for a while, my dream of further education seemed out of reach.

A few months later, my sister invited me to Chingola, where I worked as a mobile money agent. The first job ended when the business closed, and I went through a difficult season of uncertainty. Eventually, I found another mobile money job, where I worked long hours for little pay. Although the work was demanding, it exposed me to new experiences, including my first encounter with a computer café. That experience ignited my passion for ICT and Computer Science.

Financial limitations meant that dream had to wait. I even considered starting a small business. Then, my cousin saw my commitment and believed in my potential. He offered to sponsor me to study teaching.

Some people questioned my decision, saying teaching was no longer a worthwhile profession. But I remembered the words shared by Mr. Mwami during our Grade 12 farewell:

"Life is hard in society, and you have to use anything as a stepping stone to achieve your goal."

Those words stayed with me.

In 2023, I enrolled at Kitwe College of Education, where I studied Mathematics and ICT. My love for Mathematics was inspired by Mr. Nchimunya and Mr. Ndubula, while my passion for ICT was nurtured by Mr. Chuma. The journey was not without financial and personal challenges, but the resilience I developed at Pestalozzi carried me through every obstacle.

Today, I am proud to share that on 31st August 2026, I graduated from Kitwe College of Education with a Merit in Mathematics and ICT.

Thus far, the Lord has brought us.

This is not the destination,it is only the beginning. My dream is to contribute to transforming Zambia's education system, inspiring young people both inside and outside the classroom, and reminding every child that their background should never define their future. With faith, hard work, and perseverance, anything is possible.

My heartfelt gratitude goes to Pestalozzi International for investing in my future and shaping my character, to my family for every sacrifice and prayer, to my mentors and teachers for believing in me, and to every friend who encouraged me when the journey became difficult. This achievement belongs to all of you as much as it belongs to me.

Pestalozzi Class of 2020 | Kitwe College of Education Class of 2026 🎓

💙 Congratulations, Blessings Bwalya! Your journey is a powerful reminder that resilience, humility, and determination can overcome even the greatest obstacles. We are incredibly proud of all you have achieved and look forward to seeing the positive impact you will make in Zambia's education sector and beyond. Keep shining, keep serving, and keep inspiring. Your Pestalozzi family celebrates you today and always! 🎉👏

31/07/2026

The Story of Dickson Kapita

Every success story begins with a dream, and mine is a testament to the power of perseverance, faith, and hard work.

I left Pestalozzi World Children's Village in 2017 with a strong desire to pursue higher education. In 2018 and again in 2019, I was offered opportunities to join Edulution. Although I appreciated the offers, I declined because I wanted to remain in North-Western Province and continue pursuing my goals from there.

I continued searching for scholarships and employment opportunities. Along the way, I received several scholarship offers from different colleges and universities, many covering between 50% and 80% of tuition fees. Unfortunately, financial constraints prevented me from taking up those opportunities.

Rather than giving up, I remained guided by the Pestalozzi motto: Head, Heart and Hands. I ventured into small businesses and farming to support myself while continuing to believe that my opportunity would come.

In 2021, that opportunity finally arrived when I was awarded a scholarship by FQM Trident Foundation to study Electrical Engineering at Northern Technical College (NORTEC). Through dedication, resilience, and hard work, I successfully completed my studies in 2024 and proudly graduated with a Diploma in Electrical Engineering in 2026.

My journey is proof that where you come from does not determine where you can go. No matter your location, background, or the challenges you face, success is possible if you remain focused, work hard, and never stop believing in your dreams.

🎉👏🎓Congratulations, Dickson Kapita, on this remarkable achievement! Your resilience, determination, and commitment to your goals are truly inspiring. May this milestone be the beginning of even greater accomplishments. We celebrate your success and wish you continued excellence in your career and future endeavors.😊

21/07/2026

*🏆 Champions on the field. One family at heart. 💙*

Victory, laughter, mentorship, and unforgettable memories defined this year's Pestalozzi Alumni Sports Day.

As students claimed all three trophies, the day also celebrated the spirit of unity, service, and lifelong connections inspired by Nelson Mandela International Day.

Here's a look back at a day where every moment was worth celebrating 🙌🏾 🤗😊

20/07/2026

🏆 Students Dominate as Pestalozzi Sports Day Strengthens Alumni-Student Bonds

By Mary Doloserah

The annual Pestalozzi Alumni Sports Day concluded on a high note as current students claimed victory in all the major sporting disciplines, defeating the alumni to lift the football, netball, and volleyball trophies.

Held at the school grounds, the event brought together current students, alumni, staff, and supporters for a day of exciting competition, camaraderie, and the celebration of the enduring Pestalozzi spirit. Throughout the day, participants demonstrated determination, teamwork, and sportsmanship, with the students proving too strong across all three sporting codes.

The event also coincided with Nelson Mandela International Day, providing an opportunity for the school community to reflect on the values championed by the late South African statesman. Participants were reminded of the importance of giving back through community service, showing compassion, and making a positive difference in the lives of others.

The celebrations continued during the prize-giving ceremony, where outstanding athletes were recognized with medals for their exceptional individual performances. Champion teams were also presented with trophies in recognition of their victories in football, netball, and volleyball.

Speaking during the event, Alumni Liaison Officer Mr. Pascal Muzungu encouraged students to make the most of the opportunity to connect with alumni.

His words:

Do not be afraid to interact with our alumni. Ask questions, seek guidance, and learn from their experiences. They have walked the same journey and can help you prepare for life beyond high school.

His message underscored one of the event's key objectives not only promoting healthy competition but also strengthening relationships between current students and the wider Pestalozzi alumni community through mentorship, networking, and shared experiences.

The Matron, Madam Mutinta Muzyamba expressed her appreciation to the Sports Committee for organizing a well-coordinated and memorable event. She commended everyone involved for their dedication and encouraged to continue hosting similar activities, noting that such events foster unity, participation, school pride, and give students something exciting to look forward to.

As the celebrations came to a close, the victorious student teams proudly lifted their trophies while participants reflected on a successful day that celebrated sportsmanship, friendship, and the lifelong bonds that connect generations of the Pestalozzi family.

🏅⚽🏐🏐 With medals awarded, trophies lifted, Nelson Mandela International Day commemorated, and new connections formed, this year's Sports Day served as a powerful reminder that while competition brings excitement, the greatest victory lies in the lasting relationships that continue to unite the Pestalozzi Community.

15/07/2026

From Pestalozzi to Russia – A Journey of Resilience and Success 🎓🌍

We are proud to celebrate the remarkable achievement of our alumnus, who has graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Economics from Russian State Agrarian University.

Reflecting on his journey, he shared how studying in Russia felt like reliving his very first days at Pestalozzi. Arriving in a new country without confidence in the language, surrounded by an unfamiliar culture, technology, infrastructure, and way of life, he once again found himself stepping into the unknown.

Yet, just as he had done before, he embraced every challenge with courage and determination. Drawing on the culture of learning, resilience, and perseverance nurtured during his time at Pestalozzi, he quickly mastered the language, adapted to his new environment, and remained focused on his goal.

His graduation is more than an academic milestone, it is a testament to resilience, hard work, and the determination to keep moving forward despite every obstacle.

In his own words:

"Today I hold a Bachelor's Degree in Economics, and I like to think of that achievement as a sign of resilience, perseverance, and the unwavering desire to run till the finish line."

To every young person beginning their journey, and to every current Pestalozzi learner, his message is simple:

"I am proud of you. Keep going."

Congratulation to you Nelson Kapama on this incredible achievement! Your story reminds us that with courage, resilience, and a commitment to learning, no dream is too far to reach.

We wish you continued success as you embark on this exciting new chapter. Your Pestalozzi family is immensely proud of you. 💙🎉

01/07/2026

🎉 Congratulations to Our Alumna – Sarah Mtonga Zimba!🎓

Today, we proudly celebrate the achievement of our alumna, Sarah Mtonga Zimba on graduating with a Bachelor's Degree in Food and Nutrition from Rockview University.

Sarah is originally from Lundazi in the Eastern Province. She joined the Pestalozzi Foundation in January 2009 and began her journey at Kasis Pestalozzi, where she studied from Grade 5 to Grade 6. In 2011, she transitioned to Pestalozzi Ibex and continued her education from Grade 7, successfully completing Grade 12 in 2016.

After completing secondary school, Sarah did not proceed to university immediately. She returned to Lundazi, where she spent some time before joining Edulution Company in May 2017. In December 2021, she made the decision to pursue a Bachelor's Degree in Food and Nutrition at Rockview University.

Sarah shared that her university journey was not easy. However, through determination and perseverance, she successfully completed her studies in August 2025 and officially graduated in May 2026.

Her journey is a testament to the fact that every individual's path is different, and that resilience, patience, and commitment can lead to success regardless of when one begins.

Sarah's story also reflects the impact of the opportunities and foundation she received through Pestalozzi. The values, education, and support she gained during her years with the Foundation helped shape her journey and contributed to the determination that carried her through to this important milestone.

On behalf of the Pestalozzi Alumni family, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Sarah on this well-deserved achievement. We are incredibly proud of her and wish her God's abundant blessings, continued success, and fulfillment as she embarks on the next chapter of her career and life.

💪🏾Congratulations once again, Sarah! Your journey inspires us all.🎓👏💙

20/06/2026

🌍This World Refugee Day, we celebrate the inspiring journey of alumnus Vianne J. Tuyisenge🌟
From humble beginnings in Maheba Refugee Camp to becoming a pharmacist, his story is one of resilience,perseverance determination,Hope and purpose💪🏾💪🏾

👏A proud alumnus of both the University of Zambia and Pestalozzi International 😊

My story began in Maheba Refugee Camp, where I was born, raised, and took my first steps toward education and hope.
In 2010, my life changed when Pestalozzi selected me. The following year, I began my education under their sponsorship at Pestalozzi Kasisi. In 2012, I moved to Pestalozzi Ibex, where I spent six transformative years growing academically, socially, and personally.

In 2017, I completed high school as the best graduating student. This achievement opened doors to several international scholarship opportunities. However, despite being selected, I was unable to travel due to passport and travel restrictions. It was a painful setback and one of many obstacles that lay ahead.
Yet, every challenge carried a lesson. After enduring several disappointments and uncertainties, I received sponsorship to study Pharmacy at the University of Zambia through the mercy and kindness of the late Most Reverend Bishop John R. Osmers. This opportunity became a turning point in my life.
University life was far from easy.

The journey tested me in ways I had never imagined. At times, I felt twisted by circumstances and broken by challenges. But through perseverance, faith, and determination, I continued to press forward. In the end, my efforts were rewarded with the prize I had worked so hard for—a Merit in Pharmacy.
Throughout my journey, the Pestalozzi holistic motto of “Head, Heart, and Hands” has remained my guiding principle. It has helped me navigate life with wisdom, compassion, and practical skills. It shaped my academic excellence, strengthened my resilience and survival skills, and has always inspired me to provide empathetic and professional healthcare services to those in need.

Today, as a pharmacist, I look back with gratitude at every challenge and every helping hand that made my journey possible. My story is proof that where you begin does not determine where you can go, because I am just beginning.

Message to the Young Pestalozzi Generation:
“Life will throw many hurdles at you, but through God, perseverance, and determination, anything is possible. Just BELIEVE!”

🎓🏆💊A big Congratulations, Vianne, on your achievement. Your Pestalozzi family is proud of you and wishes you every success and blessing as you continue to make a positive impact in the world.🥰❤️