By Monze CNCS Hub Staff Reporter

Maamba Youth Project has honoured outstanding workers for dedication, creativity and service during its first-ever staff awards ceremony.

The awards, held as part of this year’s Labour Day commemorations under the theme “Dignity in Work, Charity in Service,” recognised employees who distinguished themselves through commitment to duty, innovation and support for vulnerable youths undergoing skills training.

Sr. Vivien Chanda, the guest of honour, commended staff members for their selfless service and dedication to transforming the lives of vulnerable young people.

“I came today expecting to encourage you, but I find that you have encouraged me. By giving extra time to slow learners, remaining dedicated and offering extraordinary service, you are giving the poor what money cannot buy, your skills, your hands and your hearts,” she said.

Sr. Chanda urged workers who did not receive awards to remain committed and continue striving for excellence.

“Those who were not recognised today should not give up. Continue working hard and your time will come,” she said.

She said many of the workers’ contributions often went unnoticed by the public but played a significant role in changing lives.

“Your work is hidden. No camera follows you when you stay late to help a learner or visit someone who has dropped out. But heaven sees, the Church sees and today Maamba Youth Project sees,” said Sr. Chanda.

She described the introduction of staff awards as a sign of growth within the institution and encouraged management to continue celebrating dedication and teamwork.

And Maamba Youth Project Director Webster Mafuta said the institution decided to commemorate Labour Day differently this year by recognising employees whose efforts are often carried out behind the scenes.

Mr. Mafuta said acknowledging workers was important because appreciation motivates staff to maintain high standards of performance.

“We wanted our workers to know that their efforts are seen and appreciated. When good work is recognised, it is repeated and refined. We hope these awards will encourage staff to continue serving with commitment,” he said.

Mr. Mafuta said the project combines skills training with charitable outreach by providing affordable school uniforms and helping vulnerable youths and adults access sponsorship for vocational training.

He said the initiative was helping bridge the gap between those with resources and those in need.

Meanwhile, one of the award recipients, Rachel Kayanta Mulenga, a tailor in the production department, received recognition for punctuality and dedication to duty.

Ms. Mulenga said the award was particularly meaningful because it was the first time she had received such recognition.

“It feels good to be recognised among many workers. The award has encouraged me to continue working hard,” she said.

Ms. Mulenga said despite travelling long distances to work and experiencing occasional equipment breakdowns, she remained committed to serving learners and supporting those who required additional assistance.

Another award recipient, Ngoza Tembo, who works in tailoring and dress designing, said she was grateful that her efforts had been recognised.

Ms. Tembo said working with slow learners required patience and commitment but was rewarding when they eventually mastered the skills being taught.

“I am happy that my hard work has been recognised. Helping learners improve and reach their potential gives me great satisfaction,” she said.

And Mr. Akan Sialusa, a general worker at the project, said the award had motivated him to work even harder.

Mr. Sialusa said the recognition demonstrated that dedication and hard work were valued despite the challenges workers faced in their daily duties.