From Zingalume to UNZA – and now the whole country is watching
LUSAKA, Wednesday 30 May 2025
A humble photo of University of Zambia graduate Justin Phiri hugging his mother, Maureen Lungu, has melted hearts across Facebook, TikTok and X. But behind the smiles is a five-year battle filled with walking long distances, selling kotapela (avocados) and roasted cassava, and doing any piece-work that could keep Justin in class.
1. Who are Justin and Maureen?
• Home: Zingalume compound, Lusaka
• Course: Bachelor of Archives & Records Management, UNZA (Class of 2025)
• Family story: Justin’s father died years ago. To keep her only child in school, Maureen washed clothes, did laundry, and sold tute (cassava) plus kotapela at the market. When there was no bus fare, Justin walked all the way from Zingalume to campus.
“Sometimes Mum sold avocados just so I could reach UNZA. I wanted to give up, but I kept pushing until today. Glory be to God.” – Justin Phiri in a viral video
Government meal allowances also cushioned the struggle, helping him buy food and books.
2. How the picture went viral
Last Friday’s graduation picture – simple gown, worn jacket and chitenge skirt – told a bigger story than designer suits ever could. Within 48 hours the snap had thousands of shares, with Zambians praising Maureen’s sacrifice and Justin’s grit.
3. Macky 2 steps in – but note the politics
Rapper-turned-entrepreneur Mulaza “Macky 2” Kaira quickly invited the duo for a sit-down. He offered mentorship and promised to help Justin start a small business, calling it part of his “Young People Movement.”
Remember: Macky 2 is not just being nice. He has already declared that he will run for Member of Parliament for Nchanga Constituency in the 2026 general elections. He is on the ground selling his manifesto to youths, so empowering success stories like Justin’s is also campaign work.
4. The Magnate controversy: sympathy vs. celebration
While many offered cash and gifts, entertainment figure Magnate (real name Brighton Sinkala) poured cold water on what he called “sympathy buying.” On Facebook he wrote:
“I’m also pledging a 65-inch smart TV – aletambako TRACE TV. Ubu fontini bupweko! Why do you want to be emotional about his graduation? Let’s celebrate him without buying sympathy.”
A follower replied, “Boss, te bu fontini; buchushi butuchita ububi” (it’s poverty hurting us, not old-fashioned thinking). Magnate shot back, “Twalipitamo – on my graduation I couldn’t even afford a full suit,” posting an old photo of himself in mismatched clothes. He finally added, “To everyone contributing, continue – it’s his time to shine and win.”
The exchange sparked debate:
• Team Sympathy – “Let people help; this is what community is about.”
• Team Celebration – “Give him space to enjoy the moment without turning him into a charity case.”
5. What next for Justin?
1. Job hunt or internship: Many firms say they want diligent graduates who overcame odds. His new spotlight could open doors.
2. Small business seed: If Macky 2’s promise materialises, Justin may start an information-management consultancy or kiosk.
Justin’s story reminds Zambia that buchushi (poverty) can delay dreams but cannot kill them. Celebrate the win, support wisely, and keep an eye on the bigger picture – whether it’s a 65-inch TV offer or a 2026 campaign slogan.
