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📢 Celebrating Youth Day: John Chibuye Phiri's Impact Through Sports and Housing Transformation

In the heart of Kabwe’s Makululu settlement, where challenges often overshadow hope, one young man is proving that resilience and determination can change lives. John Chibuye Phiri, now 29 years old, is a beacon of inspiration, a Habitat for Humanity Zambia house beneficiary who has turned his gratitude into action by uplifting others through sports and advocating for decent housing for youth.

John’s story is one of triumph over adversity. Orphaned at a young age, he faced an uncertain future, with the looming fear of homelessness casting a shadow over his dreams. However, in 2018, at just 22 years old, his life took a remarkable turn. Habitat for Humanity Zambia empowered him with a decent place to call home, providing him with the stability he had longed for. This new beginning not only gave him shelter but also ignited a purpose within him to give back to his community.

Recognizing the struggles that young people in his community faced, pressure, substance abuse, and lack of direction John saw an opportunity to make a difference. Inspired by his passion for football and his deep desire to create positive change, he founded a youth football team. In tribute to the organization that had transformed his life, he named it Habitat for Humanity FC.

What started as a simple initiative to engage young people soon blossomed into something extraordinary. Today, Habitat for Humanity FC is a recognized team competing in the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) Division 4 Central Province League. Against all odds, they are currently leading the league, proving that talent and dedication can break through even the toughest barriers.

Understanding that housing plays a critical role in youth development, John has been an advocate for safe and secure shelter for young people. He believes that stable housing provides a foundation for young individuals to pursue their passions and build better futures. Through his leadership, he has championed the idea that sports and decent shelter go hand in hand, offering youth a sense of belonging and a platform to thrive.

John’s commitment to youth empowerment did not stop there. Understanding the need for inclusivity, he also established and manages DEW Girls Football Team, which competes in the FAZ Provincial League. The team, currently ranked sixth in the league, provides young girls with a platform to develop their skills, build confidence, and stay away from negative influences. Just like Habitat for Humanity FC, DEW Girls Football Team embodies the power of sports as a tool for social transformation and community cohesion.

Together, John’s teams are changing the narrative of youth in Makululu. Habitat for Humanity FC now has 30 players, while DEW Girls Football Team has 23 players, all of whom see John not only as a coach but as a mentor and role model. He has also worked tirelessly to advocate for better living conditions for young people, proving that safe housing and structured engagement in sports can provide a pathway out of poverty.

Despite the challenges of securing resources such as transport, jerseys, and football boots, John remains unwavering in his mission. He believes that keeping young people engaged in productive activities is essential in a society where many fall into destructive behaviors. His dedication and selfless service to his community embody the true spirit of leadership.

As Zambia celebrates National Youth Day 2025, Habitat for Humanity Zambia is proud to shine a light on John Chibuye Phiri,a young man transcending boundaries and transforming lives through the powerful nexus of sports, youth, and housing. His journey is a testament to the power of shelter, opportunity, and the unwavering spirit of those determined to make a difference. Through his work, John is not only giving young people a reason to dream but also proving that with support, resilience, and vision, change is possible.