19-YEAR-OLD LAW STUDENT TO BE SWORN IN AS ONE OF EASTERN PROVINCE’S YOUNGEST COUNCILLORS
At just 19, Rose Sakala is set to trade her law books for the council chamber as she takes the oath of office as councillor for Mkowe Ward in Kasenengwa Constituency, Eastern Province.
Ms Sakala, who grew up in a village in the province, says her childhood experiences inspired her passion for leadership, youth empowerment and advocating for women and girls.
She told Kalemba that her desire to serve the community where she was raised motivated her to enter politics.
After completing her secondary education at New Matero Secondary School in Lusaka, Ms Sakala returned to Eastern Province and successfully contested the Mkowe Ward councillor position.
She said her decision to join politics was driven by the need to give young people and women a stronger voice in decisions affecting their communities.
While taking on her new public responsibilities, Ms Sakala will continue pursuing a Bachelor of Laws degree through distance learning at Copperbelt University.
She believes combining legal knowledge with political leadership will enable her to serve her community more effectively and advocate for the rights and opportunities of women, girls and young people.
Ms Sakala says young people can take up leadership positions and make a meaningful difference if they have the courage, determination and purpose to step forward.