From Student to Leader: Celebrating Ceasar’s 5 Year Anniversary at AYC
By Annabel Mumba
Annabel Mumba is AYC’s Donor Relations Coordinator in Zambia. She is a Scholarship Fund recipient, high school graduate and current college student, and also one of our Success Stories.
Co-written by Pamela O’Brien, African Education Program’s Development Director, who is mentoring Annabel as she pursues a journalism degree.
Ceasar is one of three Co-Directors who lead daily operations at the Learning & Leadership Centre in Kafue, Zambia.
Ceasar Samwaka’s connection to the Amos Youth Centre (AYC) began as a 10th grader when he first stepped through the doors of the Learning & Leadership Centre in Kafue, Zambia. Little did he know that the organization would not only change the course of his life, but also inspire him to dedicate his career to helping others achieve their dreams. With the support of AYC’s scholarship programs, Ceasar excelled in high school and went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts with Education from the University of Zambia.
Today, as Director of Academics and Scholarships and one of three Co-Directors who lead daily operations at the Centre, Ceasar is a role model for the youth, embodying the same hope and determination that first brought him there. His favorite part of the job? Motivating and inspiring kids to realize their potential.
Ceasar’s role as an alumnus leading AYC’s scholarship program brings a unique and invaluable perspective to the organization. Having been a student who benefitted from the very opportunities he now oversees, Ceasar understands firsthand the struggles, aspirations, and potential of the youth he serves. His journey is a testament to the transformative power of AYC’s programs. He connects deeply with the students, serving not only as a role model but as a living example of what is possible when opportunities are met with determination and hard work. His leadership demonstrates the importance of alumni giving back to the very systems that uplifted them, creating a cycle of growth and empowerment.
“If we can all help one another solve each other’s problems, the world can be a better place.”
Reflection on the Past 5 Years
In his role as a Director, Ceasar has witnessed numerous milestones and accomplishments for the organization. One of the most remarkable achievements has been the significant growth of AYC’s scholarship programs. When Ceasar started in 2020, the program supported 30 college and university students and around 250 students from grade one to college prep. Today, the scholarship initiative empowers over 70 college and university students and more than 600 students across all grade levels.
Under his leadership, AYC has also celebrated over 120 college and university graduates—an achievement that brings immense pride and motivation to Ceasar and his team. This monumental responsibility keeps Ceasar on his toes, ensuring that every child who walks through AYC’s doors has access to equal and life-changing opportunities—just as he was given years ago.
Among the many success stories that stand out in Ceasar’s career is his work with students who have pursued international education. Under his guidance, he has been able to assist with international educational opportunities with four students securing placements abroad—two in the United States and two in South Africa at the African Leadership Academy. Ceasar had a front-row seat in their journey, ensuring they not only gained access to these prestigious institutions but also completed their studies successfully. For Ceasar, producing students who attend and graduate from international schools is like hitting the jackpot—one he proudly celebrates. Finding international opportunities and scholarships is what motivates him to work tirelessly. He firmly believes that everyone deserves the chance to seize the best opportunities, regardless of where they come from.
Scholarships play a crucial role in changing the lives of ordinary Zambian youth, many of whom face significant financial barriers to education. For countless families, the dream of higher education is often out of reach due to exorbitant college fees. Parents, burdened by economic challenges, are often unable to afford these costs, leaving their children’s futures uncertain. AYC’s College Scholarship Fund serves as a lifeline, bridging the gap between potential and opportunity. These scholarships alleviate the financial burden on families, enabling students to focus on their education and aspirations without the constant worry of affordability.
Ceasar is also deeply moved by the stories of resilience he sees every day. Watching students overcome significant challenges to graduate from either high school or college/university is a constant reminder of the transformative power of education and community support.
The Centre’s Mission and Impact
Ceasar is committed to AYC’s evolving mission of addressing the needs of Zambia’s youth. He oversees critical programs focused on academics and scholarships, ensuring they deliver tangible benefits to the local community. His work involves not only managing resources but also measuring the success and impact of these programs.
Under his leadership, AYC has developed a clear vision for youth empowerment—equipping young people with the tools they need to thrive academically, professionally, and personally. By fostering a culture of learning and opportunity, Ceasar helps pave the way for a brighter future for Zambia’s youth. These educated youths go on to contribute to their families, communities, and the nation at large. From doctors and educators to nurses, engineers and entrepreneurs, AYC alumni are becoming key players in Zambia’s development, creating ripple effects of progress that extend far beyond their individual achievements.
Looking to the Future
Over the next five years, Ceasar aims to continue growing both personally and professionally. He hopes to expand AYC’s reach, ensuring that even more students benefit from the organization’s programs. Adapting scholarship and academic initiatives to the changing needs of youth is a priority for him, as is building partnerships that can amplify AYC’s impact.
Ceasar envisions AYC as a cornerstone of youth development in Zambia, offering opportunities that not only transform lives but also create a ripple effect of positive change in their communities and country.
Advice and Inspiration
Throughout his journey, Ceasar has drawn inspiration from the resilience and determination of the students he works with. He emphasizes the importance of community, stating, “We rise by lifting each other up.”
For young alumni and aspiring change makers, Ceasar’s advice is simple: believe in the power of education and mentorship. By working together to solve problems and create opportunities, he believes we can build a better, more equitable world.
Ceasar’s leadership exemplifies how alumni can lead the charge in fostering this transformation. By combining his personal experiences with his professional expertise, Ceasar ensures that AYC’s holistic programs remains impactful and relevant, offering hope and opportunity to the next generation of Zambian leaders. Through his work, he is helping to write a new chapter for Zambia’s youth—one where education is the foundation for a brighter, more equitable future.
Cheers to five years, Ceasar! We can’t wait to see what the future holds for you and AYC!!
