As part of Zambia’s 2026 National Youth Week activities, Build It recently visited two schools rolling out Build It With Her – our media campaign designed to encourage more young women to pursue careers in the construction sector. We were joined by some of our incredible role models who are breaking barriers and redefining what’s possible for women in the industry.
Chipamapamo Secondary School
Our first stop was Chipamapamo Secondary School, where we engaged with around 100 pupils from Grades 9, 11, and 12.
The students were thrilled to meet electrician sisters Vistor and Patience Phiri from Tistor Construction.
Many were amazed to see women excelling in a field traditionally dominated by men. The pupils listened with great attentiveness as the sisters shared their journey, asking thoughtful questions to better understand how they built their careers in electrical work.
Vistor Phiri and Patience Phiri from Tistor Construction
During the vote of thanks, Grade 12 pupil Lontia Muyambu expressed her gratitude stating:
“This is something new to us. Yes we see people who build within our community, but we did not know that it is actually a recognised career path – especially for us girls so we are happy to learn what we have learnt today.”
The Deputy Head Teacher Mr Kyayuwa Bruce encouraged learners to broaden their career aspirations beyond white‑collar jobs. He emphasised the value of skills training as a viable, sustainable, and empowering pathway. He thanked the Phiri sisters and Build It for highlighting new opportunities – especially for girls.
Chisamba Day School
Gift Musonda – popularly known as ‘The Lady Driller’ – captured the hearts of students at Chisamba Day School. The atmosphere was electric, with students chanting the trending youth phrase “Salt sana!” as they listened to her story.
Gift shared how she transitioned from being a registered nurse, to becoming the first female owner of a borehole drilling company in Zambia. She encouraged pupils to follow their passion relentlessly:
“Many people will tell you: ‘You can’t do it, this is not for girls, you are too young.’ But tell yourself: I can do it!”
Gift Musonda sharing her insights with pupils
A message that resonated across both schools
Across both outreach sessions, one message stood firm: women and girls should not let stereotypes or discrimination stand in the way of pursuing careers in construction. Just like our role models, girls must stand confidently and aim high.
And to the boys – supporting and working respectfully with women in construction leads to stronger and more productive teams. It benefits everyone. From an early age, young men must reject discriminatory attitudes and uplift their female peers.
Our motto remains simple yet powerful: Build It With Her for a better community.
Special thanks
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to role models Patience Phiri, Vistor Phiri and Gift Musonda for inspiring the next generation of young workers.
This outreach was made possible through the generous support of the Government of Ireland, under our advocacy project aimed at increasing women’s participation in the building industry.