01/07/2025
I AM JUST A BOY FROM THE VILLAGE
Caleb Writes...
"i come from a place many maps don’t mark. A small, quiet part of Zambia, Shakumbila Chiefdom. No skyscrapers. No shiny classrooms. Just dusty roads, hardworking hands, and dreams that often die young." Lol, am kidding that's my home Village on my NRC. Daddy's Village and my village.
Oky, let me get serious panonofye
My name is Caleb J. Katimbe, according to my NRC, I am Village Boy from Mwachulabantu Village under chief Shakumbila of the Lenje speaking People in Central Province. Kwenyu ✅. I was raised in Mazabuka. Actually, I was pa Ndeke Clinic in Mazabuka 😂.
Why am I here today?...
When I completed my Grade 12, life didn’t open doors. It shut them. I stayed in society for an entire year without my results, not because I failed, but because I couldn’t clear my school fees. Watching others move forward while I stood still was painful and humbling. The world kept turning, but mine was on pause.
In December the following year, I finally got my results.
That paper wasn’t just results, it was redemption.
Without wasting time, I applied to Rusangu University and chose Biomedical Science. I was fired up, hopeful... until a former classmate hit me with a question that still burns in my chest:
"Caleb, how will your parents manage to pay your school fees at Rusangu University? It’s too costly and your family can’t afford it."
I won’t lie, it broke something inside me. I didn’t show it. I didn’t respond. But deep within, a fire lit up. That moment became my fuel, my turning point. The very words meant to discourage me became the motivation that drives me every single day.
Like seriously 😒 😳
I never graduated as a Biomedical Scientist, Instead, I emerged as something stronger, wiser and purpose driven, an Environmental Health Officer. And yes, you’re probably wondering why I made that switch... maybe one day I’ll tell you. 😂
Oh and the reason I don’t drink alcohol? That story is connected, too. Let’s save it for a good day maybe in ....