Precious Banda is 16 years old and is from Lufwanyama District - a rural district on the Copperbelt Province of Zambia
"Young people have an important role to play in changing the world and influencing government programmes and policies because as young people we are responsible in shaping up our future destiny. If we act irresponsibly, we won't grow into productive citizens and as a result we shall be burdens to our government instead of being assets."
Precious has been a role model in promoting and creating awareness on Child Rights in education and health in Zambia, and through her school she has set up and participated in Child Rights Clubs. In addressing health issues specifically, she has been an advocate for increasing budgetary allocation for improved access to maternal child health services. She also works with young women in her community and school to raise awareness towards issues relating to child, early and forced marriage.
Precious has helped to convene dialogues with other children in her community and duty bearers/government representatives, to discuss social issues that affect young people. She also regularly interacts with local civic and traditional leaders on these issues.
Watch Precious speak about what she wants the government to do to prevent children from dying of preventable causes
