Bernadette Deka-Zulu’s 2025 Reflections | With Gratitude
“Beyond Chinkuli, I remained engaged in conversations around public policy, governance, gender equality, youth leadership, and social development, both locally and internationally.
I had the privilege to lead conversations around Gender Based Violence against women earlier in the year, at the UN Headquarters in New York during the CSW. I extended my frontline advocacy to Lausanne Switzerland where I spoke on girls & women in sport. I also engaged with women leaders at global summits in Johannesburg where I spoke on women in leadership. I was privileged to be sent to Angola, for the Luanda Infrastructure Summit by the African Union NEPAD AUDA,”
Bernadette Deka-Zulu's 2025 Reflections | With Gratitude
As 2025 comes to an end, my heart is full of gratitude, especially for the time spent with people and communities that continue to shape my journey, particularly in Chinkuli.
Like every other since my childhood, this year, I spent meaningful time in *Chinkuli*, listening and working alongside community members. Working with women’s and youth groups mattered because strong households and sustainable communities are built when people are supported to stand on their own. I was able to contribute to initiatives such as TWANGULUKE Village Bank, which plays an important role in strengthening women-led livelihoods. I also supported local male and female football teams with kits, footballs, and modest financial assistance, because sport keeps young people engaged, disciplined, and hopeful. Spending time with elderly members of the community across different parts of Chinkuli was a reminder that their dignity, care, and wisdom must always be valued.
With the support of my parents, community members, and generous clothing donations from my brother, Fr. Robbie Deka, we reached vulnerable families and helped restore dignity where it was most needed. Sometimes the simplest support makes the greatest difference. I also continued to assist school-going children with uniforms and learning materials, knowing that education remains one of the strongest tools for breaking cycles of hardship. I hope to extend this support to more families in the year ahead.
Beyond Chinkuli, I remained engaged in conversations around public policy, governance, gender equality, youth leadership, and social development, both locally and internationally.
I had the privilege to lead conversations around Gender Based Violence against women earlier in the year, at the UN Headquarters in New York during the CSW. I extended my frontline advocacy to Lausanne Switzerland where I spoke on girls & women in sport. I also engaged with women leaders at global summits in Johannesburg where I spoke on women in leadership. I was privileged to be sent to Angola, for the Luanda Infrastructure Summit by the African Union NEPAD AUDA.
These spaces continually reminded me that while conversations may be global, the true measure of impact is how they improve everyday lives at home.
Here in Zambia, working with organisations such as Mothers Without Borders allowed me to speak to and mentor over 500 girls and young women, encouraging confidence, education, and leadership. When girls are empowered, families and communities grow stronger.
This year reaffirmed for me that leadership is being present, consistency, and genuine care for people. I remain deeply thankful for every shared moment and every opportunity to serve.
— Bernadette Deka Zulu
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