A UNIVERSITY of Zambia (UNZA) graduate who went viral last Friday for his outfit and that of his mother during graduation, has shared how his mother opted to sell roasted cassava, wash blankets and clothes for a living just to see her son in school.
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Their outfits became the talk of almost everyone at first glance as it indicated that the graduation celebrations was indeed birthed from a hard felt battle.
Justin Phiri, who graduated with a degree in Records and Archives Management last week, said his mother, Maureen Lungu, struggled to support his education after the death of his father.
His story gained attention after a photo of him and his mother at the graduation ceremony circulated widely online.
The image sparked an outpouring of support from the public, with some well-known figures such as musician Macky 2 pledging to help him start a business.
Wearing a simple Kamwala-ish suit and standing next to his mother dressed in a visibly worn out black jacket with a yellow chitenge skirt and an orange tshirt, the duo’s appearance at the graduation stood out not for glamour, but for the powerful story it carried.
Justin said his journey at UNZA was filled with challenges, including having to walk long distances from Zingalume to campus when transport money was unavailable.
“During my school time, I faced a lot of challenges, I used to walk from Zingalume to UNZA but my mom could strive just for me to get transport money, sometimes she would sell avocados just for me to have transport.”
“I continued with my education despite all my challenges, I was focused and I knew I would be successful one day and be able to repay my mom,” he stated in a video shared by Macky 2.
Justin however, added that meal allowances provided by the government also helped ease the burden during his time at university.
And the mother, Maureen, speaking when they met up with Macky 2 said she was determined to see her son complete his education despite the hardships she faced.
“After my husband died, I started doing different piece works, washing for people, selling cassava, anything I could find, just so I could raise my son’s transport money but sometimes when things were harder, he walked from Zingalume to UNZA,” said Maureen.
The story may have started in rocks but it is certain that it is heading towards a beautiful ending with further persistence and focus from the young man.
By Catherine Pule
Kalemba, May 28, 2025
