DJ Chmba recognised as a changemaker
Fresh from dropping her Mtima Rising EP, producer and DJ, DJ Chmba has been named among 12 exceptional young leaders by the Kofi Annan Changemakers 2021.
The artist said the award follows her passion to serve humankind through the Tiwale Initiative and her interest in music.
“I am filled with gratitude, excitement and a lot of motivation for getting this kind of recognition. This is such an incredible opportunity for our work at Tiwale as it could open many doors,” said DJ Chmba in an interview.
DJ Chmba, real name Ellen Chilemba, founded Tiwale, a community centre supporting girls and women and non-binary folks through art, education and economic opportunities.
“The programme includes training on mentorship and connections for potential partners. I feel motivated about what we are trying to achieve in our communities as this could open a lot of roadblocks,” she said.
DJ Chmba said she believes the opportunity will help her grow as a community organiser.
“I am particularly excited about the networking, partnerships and project management aspect of the opportunity,” she said.
DJ Chmba also said her work earned her a nomination by the African Leadership Academy, a US institute where she studied. The institute promotes international education and leadership.
“The Kofi Annan Foundation reached out asking for references and inquired more about my work with Tiwale. A couple of weeks later, I am overwhelmed to learn that I am one of the 12 youths selected globally to work with the organisation,” she said.
Through the foundation, the Kofi Annan Changemakers initiative gives young people a voice and chance to dialogue with and seek counsel from experienced leaders on issues of concernin order to become change agents.
“The 12 young leaders, who have already demonstrated commitment and impact in their respective fields, will interact with leaders from the high-level network of the Kofi Annan Foundation, searching for ways to build their capacity for positive action,” reads www.kofiannanfoundation.org.
Specifically about Chmba, the foundation says she “helps create young leaders who will transform their communities, break toxic cultures and make Malawi, Africa and the world a better place. Chmba’s work is focused on young women and girls as well as the marginalised LGBTQ community”.
The local DJ will attend online and physical meetings in Geneva, Switzerland together with other youths from Zimbabwe, Uganda, Ghana and Nigeria, among others.
