Celebrating 20 years of transforming lives through sport
A pioneering collaboration of seven UK universities, including the University of St Andrews, has marked 20 years of impactful partnership with Zambian NGO Sport in Action.
The Wallace Group commemorated the milestone with a Twentieth Anniversary Gala (TAG) in Lusaka, Zambia, (4–6 August 2025), celebrating the achievements and impact of the Volunteer Zambia project.
The collaboration has positively impacted hundreds of thousands of young people and significantly contributed to Zambia’s sporting infrastructure. More than 15 million Zambian Kwacha has been invested in facilities such as basketball, netball, and volleyball courts across Lusaka.
In 2024 alone, the project reached over 17,000 young people through programming delivered nationwide – from Lusaka to Kaputa, Choma to Nakonde, and Livingstone to Chipata – demonstrating its deep community engagement and national reach.
Founded in 2006, the Wallace Group – comprising Cardiff Metropolitan University, Durham University, Loughborough University, Northumbria University, University of Edinburgh, University of St Andrews, and University of Stirling – has united over 1,000 student and staff volunteers in a shared mission to use sport as a catalyst for sustainable development, education, and youth empowerment.
The University of St Andrews, working closely with Sport In Action, led the anniversary celebrations on behalf of the Wallace Group.
Founding member of the Wallace Group and Director of Sport at the University, Stephen Stewart MBE, chaired the organising committee and coordinated the schedule of events. He was supported by Dr Fergus Knight, Assistant Director (Commercial Operations) and Wallace Group Marketing & Communications Lead, alongside Deryn Black, TAG Event Officer, Amy Gordon (Athletic Union President) and Nina Revell Wilson (Sports Development Officer and Volunteer Zambia Operational Lead).
Mr Stewart said: “This milestone is more than a celebration – it’s a testament to what can be achieved when institutions unite around a shared purpose. It’s a moment to reflect on the journey we’ve taken together, to honour the dedication of our Zambian partners, and to look ahead with excitement and ambition for what’s still to come. Being part of this collaboration has been deeply rewarding, both professionally and personally.
Frankson Mushindu, Executive Director of Sport In Action, said: “Together, we’ve shown that sport can be a powerful tool for social change. This anniversary is not just about the past – it’s about the future we’re building together.”
Twentieth Anniversary Gala Highlights
Officially launched by the Zambian Ministry for Youth, Sport and Arts, TAG brought together key stakeholders from Zambia and the UK, including representatives from the Zambian Government, National Sports Council Zambia, Zambian sports federations, British High Commission, World Netball, The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Zambia, and Wallace Group universities.
Launch of Strategic Initiatives
During a special event hosted by the British High Commission, two major initiatives were unveiled:
Building Zambia’s Sporting Future
The programme not only transforms communities, but also continues to nurture national-level talent. Alumni from hub sites now lead Zambia’s sporting success, including Andres Lazarus Tembo (African Netball Championship-winning coach), Monica Chidila (U20 Women’s Football Team Manager), Lyson Zulu (FAZ Technical Director), and Katambi Mwanza (Basketball Head Coach).
Celebrated at State House
To conclude the celebrations, representatives from Sport In Action, the Wallace Group, and the Duke of Edinburgh International Award Zambia were honoured with a visit to State House. They met with senior government officials, including Jito Kayumba, Finance and Investment Advisor to the President. Discussions focused on strategic funding, expanding development efforts to underserved communities, and strengthening collaboration between government and civil society. The meeting reaffirmed a shared commitment to inclusive national development through sport.
Acknowledging Support
Sport In Action and the Wallace Group gratefully acknowledge the support of global sportswear brand Macron, the Volunteer Zambia Foundation, Durham University, and the University of St Andrews. Macron donated £10,000 as event headline sponsors as well as over 3,000 pieces of sports kit to hub site participants, coaches, and Duke of Edinburgh Award participants and leaders, reinforcing their commitment to youth empowerment and sport for development.
Dr Fergus Knight said: “It’s incredibly special to be part of a partnership that has not only endured for twenty years but continues to grow in impact and purpose. Working alongside Sport In Action has been a privilege and seeing the lasting difference our programmes make in the lives of young people across Zambia is both humbling and inspiring. This isn’t just about sport – it’s about building futures, together.”
The Wallace Group remains dedicated to co-designing sustainable sports development programmes that empower young people, foster global citizenship, and create opportunities for leadership and education.
For more information visit Volunteer Zambia and Sport in Action.