This essay is one of 35 selected by a panel of judges for “Ambitions Interrupted,” a series from The GroundTruth Project and YouthVoices, its storytelling platform.
Name: Levy Mbewe
Age: 22
Dream job: Computer engineer
City, Country: Lusaka, Zambia
Current job/school: Studying information systems, coaching kids part-time
Challenge: Financial difficulties
I always wanted to pursue a career in information systems and programming. Inspired by Bill Gates and Steve Jobs, I would stand in front of the mirror and imagine myself to be the computer genius the world was waiting for. But this was the opposite of what my mother imagined. She suggested I study with the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS), to learn how to “buy” on behalf of an organization.
On my very first day of class at a local college, I hardly understood a thing, and it was so hard to pay attention to the lecturer. I tried to force myself to concentrate, but my head was as hard as a mine rock. For two years, I pursued these business studies. It was interesting, but didn’t give me any deep satisfaction. It was challenging financially – and physically, too. I walked three miles in the burning sun each way to get there and back every day.
This experience taught me perseverance and firm character, and to not easily give up on my dream. A turning point came when I found a job coaching children in technology, sciences and mathematics. I teach the students to use the tablets that deliver the lessons, I facilitate the sessions and I offer assistance on mathematics-related problems. It’s more than a job to me – it fulfills my purpose to give back to the community, and it opened a door to my long-desired career, reviving a dream that was shuttered.
The money I am earning is helping me save, so I can finally pursue a career in information systems and programming. I believe the right man for the job is not a man with degrees and Ph.D.s, but a man with the passion to make a living out of what interests him. I strongly believe that all things are possible with determination, and that nothing is as powerful as a positive mind.
This story was originally submitted to YouthVoices, a platform powered by The GroundTruth Project that encourages young people to share stories about the issues affecting their generation. Submit your own essays and answer new questions here, or learn more about global youth unemployment with this interactive map.