Down tools – just for a day! On 3 July 2025 we proudly celebrated the graduation of 78 young men and women, marking their transformation from trainees to skilled professionals ready for the construction industry.
Cohorts 97, 98, 99 and 100 went through our Training into Work programme in 2024. They returned to our Centre for Excellence to officially mark and celebrate their hard work and determination.
Swapping hard hats for mortar boards: Our graduates walking to take their seats for the ceremony
Many of them are already finding their footing in the industry – like Noel Phiri, who is now successfully working in the construction sector.
Speaking on behalf of his peers, Noel shared how the opportunity to train was one in a million. Noel described the day not just as a graduation, but a “celebration of transformation” adding:
“The opportunity to train has not only equipped us with skills, but also given us dignity, purpose and hope for a better future. Thank you for making us feel seen, supported and valued through the course of our journey.”
Noel giving his heartfelt vote of thanks
Noel receiving his certificate from Build It Chair Lucie Kasanga
A moment of pride
The air was filled with joy and pride as graduates collected their hard earned and well-deserved certificates. They celebrated with one another with applause and hugs, showing the sense of unity and friendships formed during their training.
A day to celebrate their achievements
Thank you to everyone who supports young people through our training programme. Every graduation is a step toward dignity, opportunity and the sustainable development of Zambia.
Lucie Kasanga congratulated all the graduates, encouraging them to go forward into the workplace:
“To our graduates, congratulations. You all now have a skill that can support you with an income, and contribute to the development of your communities and to our country.“
Celebrating Women in Construction
The day also marked the graduation of 22 female entrepreneurs who took part in our recent Business Development Workshop, run in collaboration with Nuttah.
The programme brought together 25 women, who were already leading construction companies or looking to launch their own. Through a three‑day intensive workshop and a follow‑up online module, participants learnt various skills including business setup, marketing, client management and growth planning.
We are proud to congratulate 22 women who successfully completed both parts of the course, and take their next steps in the industry.
Business Development Workshop graduates celebrating their achievement
These women join a growing network of female entrepreneurs in construction. The course was delivered as part of our three-year Women in Construction project, supported by the Government of Ireland through the Embassy of Ireland in Zambia. It reflects our commitment to breaking down barriers and creating more space for women in the construction sector.
For more information about this initiative, please contact Project Officer Yolanta Mukupa via [email protected]