Chiyanika Nakasamu, a Zambian social entrepreneur, grew up witnessing the harsh realities of poverty and environmental degradation in his community. Determined to make a difference, he founded Fourth Line Limited, focusing on beekeeping and financial inclusion to combat poverty and deforestation. His journey began with a desire to address the root causes of poverty, particularly prevalent in Zambia, where 60% of the population lives below the poverty line.
Driven by a vision of digitally connected and sustainable communities, Chiyanika saw his venture as more than just a business; it was a social mission. Through Fourth Line Limited, he aimed to provide training in sustainable forest use and financial literacy, empowering households to break the cycle of poverty. Recognizing the importance of social entrepreneurship, Chiyanika sought out programs like the Y&Y Fellowship to refine his model and gain support for launching impactful initiatives.
As a Y&Y Fellow, Chiyanika found validation and camaraderie among like-minded social entrepreneurs. He learned the value of perseverance in the face of challenges and the importance of mentorship in navigating the complexities of social entrepreneurship. The Y&Y Fellowship, he believes, offers invaluable support for young entrepreneurs committed to creating positive change.