Empowering the Next Generation: Inside the Local Advisory Board

By Hannel Chaulezo

A New Chapter Begins

In August 2025, a new chapter quietly began for the children and graduates of Lord’s Mountain Orphanage (LMO). What first started as a “local board” was later renamed the Local Advisory Board (LAB), a title that more accurately reflected both its purpose and vision. Though modest in size, the Board has already become an important bridge between the American Board, the students sponsored through the program, and the wider local community in Zambia.

The introduction of the LAB came from a genuine desire to strengthen communication, improve accountability, and create closer follow-up among the students whose lives are being transformed through sponsorship and educational support. Over time, certain gaps and loopholes had been identified in the system, especially in relation to student monitoring, budget oversight, and direct engagement with the children. The establishment of the LAB was therefore not simply administrative; it was designed as a practical and long-term solution to help improve coordination and ensure that the vision of the sponsorship program continues to move forward effectively.

Former Students Giving Back

One of the most inspiring aspects of the Local Advisory Board is its composition. The committee consists primarily of graduates who themselves were once supported and cared for through Lord’s Mountain Orphanage. These young men and women have gone on to complete college studies, while others have already entered government employment in Zambia. Their journeys give them firsthand understanding of the challenges faced by the children currently benefiting from the sponsorship program. They understand the realities, struggles, and hopes of the students because they once stood in the same position.

The committee currently consists of five members, alongside one trustee and advisor. Lawrence Sakaken’i serves as Chairperson and President, while Jane Chipula serves as Vice Chairperson. Hannel Chaulezo holds the role of Secretary, assisted by Vice Secretary Kalwiji David Katombi. Financial responsibilities are overseen by Treasurer Brudas Muloji. In addition, Mende Manjomba was appointed as Trustee and Advisor to the Board, providing guidance and support to the committee.

Building a Bridge Between Boards and Students

Although the committee is relatively small, its responsibilities are both broad and significant. One of the LAB’s primary functions is to act as a bridge between the American Board and the students under the sponsorship scheme. In many ways, the Board has become the connecting link between those providing support and those receiving it. Through this structure, communication has become more organized, and concerns affecting students can now be addressed more effectively and collectively.

The Board also plays an important advisory role. Members are expected to provide strategic guidance that benefits both the institution and the students it serves. This means helping ensure that decisions, policies, and activities move in the same direction and support the overall goals of the sponsorship program. Rather than operating through competition or misunderstanding, the LAB promotes collaboration and unity.

Mentorship, Guidance, and Accountability

Another major responsibility of the LAB is monitoring student performance and welfare. Board members work closely with students to ensure there is steady academic progression, discipline, and personal growth. Meetings and engagements are regularly conducted, particularly during school holidays, where students are given opportunities to discuss their challenges, concerns, and achievements. These meetings also allow the LAB to offer encouragement, mentorship, and practical advice to students so they remain focused on their education and future aspirations.

One particularly notable meeting took place in January 2026 before schools resumed. During this gathering, Board members held close and meaningful discussions with students, allowing many important submissions and concerns to be raised. The engagement helped the American Board gain a clearer understanding of the realities and challenges facing the children. Such interactions have proven essential in strengthening relationships and ensuring that students feel heard and supported.

Strengthening Transparency and Oversight

Financial accountability is another important area in which the LAB has taken an active role. Before student budgets are submitted to the American Board for approval, the Local Advisory Board first scrutinizes them carefully. Meetings are convened to review expenditures, identify inconsistencies, and ensure that proper checks and balances are maintained. Where corrections are needed, recommendations are sent back before final submission. This process has helped improve transparency and responsibility among the students themselves.

In addition, the LAB works to ensure compliance with policies and procedures established by both the American Board and the local committee. Since the introduction of the Board, students have gradually learned the importance of following proper procedures when making submissions or raising concerns. Initially, many students still attempted to report issues directly to the American Board, bypassing the LAB entirely. However, through consistent guidance and encouragement from the wider American Board, students increasingly began to embrace the new system. Today, most students understand the importance of reporting through the LAB first before matters are escalated further.

This adjustment has produced encouraging results. The LAB reports that student behavior, communication, and overall discipline have improved considerably. Students have become more committed to their studies and more respectful of procedures and responsibilities. Closer engagement between the LAB and students has helped create stronger accountability both inside and outside school settings.

Expanding Recognition and Opportunity

Beyond its direct work with students, the LAB also seeks to advocate for the sponsorship program within wider society. The committee hopes to strengthen relationships with government institutions and other stakeholders so that the work being done through the sponsorship scheme receives greater recognition. Members believe that such recognition could eventually help create additional opportunities for graduates, including employment pathways and broader support networks.

Challenges and Continued Growth

Despite the progress achieved so far, the LAB acknowledges that challenges still exist. Like any new structure, the transition required patience and adjustment from everyone involved. Yet the Board remains optimistic that continued collaboration between the American Board, the LAB, sponsors, and the students themselves will create even greater success in the future.

The LAB also expressed deep appreciation for being entrusted with this responsibility. During a random interview conducted by the writer, Board member Brudas Muloji stated that the LAB is “ready and very ready to work on any assignment given to them by both the American Board and the children,” emphasizing that the committee’s primary responsibility is to act as a bridge between the American Board and the students.

A Vision for the Future

Ultimately, the Local Advisory Board represents more than just an administrative committee. It is a growing support system built on shared experience, accountability, mentorship, and service. Through education sponsorship, guidance, and collaboration, the Board believes that lives can continue to change for the better.

In today’s world, education remains one of the greatest tools for empowerment and opportunity. The continued success of this sponsorship scheme has the potential to produce future leaders who will positively contribute to society. As the LAB continues its work, it carries forward a message of unity, cooperation, and hope — a reminder that meaningful progress is best achieved when people work together toward a common purpose.