Guest: Kondwani Nathaniel Mwendo

Firm: SAT
Position: Youth Champion and Advocate

Gone are the days when the youth were merely considered leaders of the future. Today, young people are actively shaping the present, playing critical roles in the country’s development. Across different sectors, young leaders are stepping up, proving that they are not just the future but also the driving force behind meaningful change.

One such young leader is Kondwani Nathaniel Mwendo, a Youth Champion and Advocate at SAT. In his role, Kondwani ensures that young people are provided with the right platforms to prepare them for leadership positions. EM’s Lawrence Nachipo sat down with Kondwani to gain insights into his journey, responsibilities, and what it takes to become a successful youth advocate.

---

Profile by Lawrence Nachipo

Brief Biography

Kondwani Nathaniel Mwendo is 24 years old, single, and highly focused. Born in Lilongwe, he spent his childhood in various districts, including Mzuzu, Rumphi, and finally Zomba, where he spent 12 years—a period he credits as being instrumental in shaping his life.

He is the fourth-born in a family of five, with three brothers and one sister.

---

Academic Background

Kondwani began his education in Zomba, attending Learning Centre Private School for his primary education. After sitting for his Primary School Leaving Certificate (PSLC) exams, he was selected to Likangala Secondary School.

Due to his father’s work, the family relocated to Lilongwe in 2005, leading Kondwani to continue his secondary education at Phwezi Boys Secondary School. He successfully completed his studies there and graduated in 2010.

In August 2011, he enrolled at the Catholic University of Malawi, where he pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics with a minor in Geoscience. Although he encountered academic challenges that delayed his graduation, he successfully completed his studies on September 30, 2017. Reflecting on this journey, Kondwani attributes his success to faith, stating, “Only God is responsible for one’s elevation in life.”

---

Career Background

Kondwani admits that he never initially envisioned himself becoming a Youth Champion and Advocate. However, his passion for bringing positive change and his dedication to youth empowerment led him down this path.

His journey in advocacy began with his involvement in the SAT Youth Hub, where his passion for youth issues, particularly in the areas of health and economic empowerment, allowed him to participate in high-level meetings, voicing out the concerns of young people in communities.

Before joining SAT, Kondwani worked as a teacher at Providence Girls Secondary School, where he served as an English teacher and youth counselor. His experience as an educator further deepened his commitment to youth development.

---

A Day in the Life of a Youth Champion and Advocate

Holding the title of Youth Champion is a great honor, and Kondwani does not take the role lightly. He acknowledges that it comes with immense responsibilities and requires vision, commitment, and strategic engagement.

His work aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in the areas of youth empowerment, education, and policy advocacy.

As a Youth Champion in Malawi, Kondwani focuses on:
✔ Advocating for policies and legislation that promote youth empowerment, in alignment with the National Youth Policy.
✔ Pushing for meaningful youth participation in Malawi’s social and economic development, in line with AU Agenda 2063.
✔ Engaging in high-level discussions with policymakers to influence positive change.
✔ Hosting community dialogues to address youth-related challenges.
✔ Utilizing media platforms such as Zodiac and Timveni media houses to spread awareness about Youth-Friendly Health Services.

---

Key Attributes of a Successful Youth Champion and Advocate

To succeed in this field, one must possess the following qualities:

✔ Hardworking: The role requires dedication and perseverance.
✔ Leadership mindset: A true youth champion must inspire and lead by example.
✔ Boldness and confidence: Advocacy involves standing up for what is right, even in difficult situations.
✔ Knowledgeable: One must be well-informed about policies, youth rights, and socio-economic issues.

---

Advice to Aspiring Youth Champions and Advocates

Kondwani encourages young people to step up and accept the challenge of leadership and advocacy. His words of wisdom to aspiring youth champions:

“Accept the challenge, and trust that God will guide you. No man is responsible for one’s elevation in life—only God is.”

With the right mindset, passion, and commitment, the youth of today can drive meaningful change and shape a brighter future for Malawi and beyond.