My name is Chimango Vincent Tigone Munthali, and I am a 38-year-old public health informatics specialist. I come from a family of seven, and I have always believed that one person can truly make a difference in the world.

My educational journey has been a testament to my commitment to learning and making a positive impact. With a master's degree in strategic management and currently pursuing a master's in public health, I feel equipped to take on challenges head on. My role as the country director for D-Tree International, an American non-governmental organization (NGO), reflects my dedication to improving public health systems.

But, there is more to my story than just my professional pursuits. Football has always been a huge part of my life. I have been a sports enthusiast since I was a child, and I have gone from playing football at grassroots levels to representing my country on the international stage. However, my involvement with football goes beyond just playing. I have taken on administrative roles and I currently sit on the board of the Football Association of Malawi, demonstrating my deep connection to the sport.

My passion for football and community development led me to establish an NGO called Mpira M’mudzi Mwathu. This initiative is all about using football as a tool for positive change in communities. It all started when I saw a group of children playing football with improvised paper balls in a village. Their enthusiasm inspired me to take action.

Through the Donate a Ball initiative, I reached out to friends, colleagues, and the public to provide proper footballs to children in need. This initiative struck a chord and we ended up distributing around 700 footballs across the country. The impact was incredible, catching the attention of village leaders, parents, and entire communities. This was a turning point for me, confirming my belief in the transformative power of sports.

But I didn't stop there. I recognized the need for ongoing efforts, which led me to establish the Mpira M’mudzi Mwathu Soccer Schools. These schools offer a platform for children to develop their football skills and social abilities. By charging fees to those who can afford it, we generate funds that support underprivileged kids' participation. It's a cycle of giving, where those who have the means to play contribute to those who don't.

Our initiative has grown, and we have employed 25 former football players as coaches across the country. This not only creates employment opportunities but also imparts crucial life skills to the young participants. I strongly believe that sports, especially football, can turn socially disadvantaged children into confident and capable individuals.

Of course, we have faced financial challenges, especially in areas without proper sponsorship. I'm fully aware of these hurdles, but despite them, the impact of Mpira M’mudzi Mwathu has been undeniable. Talented kids have emerged and joined the national under 14 football team, showcasing the initiative's role in nurturing young talent.

My vision is ambitious as I aim to see our initiative established in every district, supported by local franchises. I dream of dedicated sports facilities that host various ball games, boosting community engagement and generating resources for further development initiatives.

At the core of my journey is an unwavering determination to inspire greatness in the lives of young people. I firmly believe that even changing a single life can bring about greatness. My story is a living example of how a person's passion and commitment can create a ripple effect, transforming communities and changing lives for the better.

My name is Chimango Vincent Munthali, inspire greatness

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