This July, Malamba Mawili Secondary School experienced something different. Together with our partner, Global Impact Transformation (GIT), we spent time with students exploring how their everyday ideas can connect to global development goals and how those ideas can lead to real change.
The session on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) was a turning point. For many students, it offered a new way of thinking. These were not just distant goals set by world leaders, they became personal. Through discussion, students started to reflect on challenges within their own communities and how those connect to the bigger issues facing the world.
They asked important questions: What issues are we really trying to solve with our school projects? How does this idea help our community move forward?
After that, we moved into working with them to develop their Income Generating Activity (IGA) ideas. The GIT team offered guidance on how to improve and structure these projects, while also encouraging students to think practically on what it would take to make their ideas work, and why it would matter.
To help get things off the ground, Her Initiative provided seed grants, allowing students to begin implementing their projects right away. That support helped turn planning into action, and gave students the chance to see what they are capable of when they are equipped and supported.
One of the first projects to take off was the production of environmentally friendly charcoal. With guidance and support from GIT, Mshiko students officially launched this eco-conscious initiative. The charcoal is produced from the used paper and boxes without cutting down trees and is free from toxic fumes, offering a safer and more sustainable alternative to traditional charcoal. It is not only a smart business idea but a bold step toward environmental responsibility, aligning with SDG 7-Affordable and Clean Energy, SDG 13 - Climate Action together with national climate goals.
What made this moment meaningful was not just the new knowledge, it was the mindset shift. There is a sense of ownership now. Students are beginning to see their projects as solutions, and themselves as part of something bigger than school assignments.
This was only the first step, but already the impact is visible in the students themselves, the way they are thinking more critically, planning with purpose, and stepping forward to lead with confidence. Their growth is a clear sign of the change that lies ahead. We are excited to see more innovative projects from the students.
