From Tragedy to Triumph: Margaret's Story

Meet Margaret, an employee at Baluba Valley Farm.

If you were to walk into the Farm Shop at Baluba Valley Farm, you would be greeted with a kind smile from Margaret. At the farm, her job is to sell fresh milk, produce, meat, and other groceries to the local community. Beyond that, she wraps meat from the butchery, works in the garden, balances sales, and keeps the shop neat and tidy. She has been a faithful employee since 2008, long before Lifesong became involved, and we are fortunate to have her on our team.

 Behind Margaret’s smile are many tragedies and hardships.

When she was just 13 years old, her mother passed away. At a time when Margaret should have been enjoying a carefree childhood, she instead was forced to take on many responsibilities as she helped care for her six siblings. Through these difficulties, Margaret managed to continue her education up until Grade 9. She also got married and found a job at a bakery in a Bible College where she worked for several years. While life was not easy, Margaret was thankful to have a job and a family she loved.

Sadly, in 2019, Margaret’s husband died, leaving her as a widow with 6 children. Becoming a widow made it very hard for Margaret to meet her children’s basic needs on her single income. Still, God provided a sponsor who has continued to support Margaret and her children yearly. This sponsorship allows for Margaret’s children to attend a local school, and because of it Margaret is also able to save a small portion of her income each month.

“If it weren’t for Jesus, I couldn’t still be living.”

Margaret recognizes that her life has contained many difficulties. Yet through it all, God has been her strength and she firmly believes each circumstance has taught her how to rely on Jesus. Margaret recognizes how God’s hand has guided her, and she believes her job at Baluba Valley Farms is another example of God’s grace. Without it, she would not be able to provide for her family. Now, Margaret dreams of raising her own chickens and farming produce to sell so one day she can stay at home with her children. Because of God’s work in her life, and with the help of Lifesong, Margaret’s story is one of tragedy to triumph.

Baluba Valley Farms is 1 of 5 Lifesong sustainable businesses in Zambia, whose profits support the Garneton and Harmony Schools. The Farm has 60 dairy cows plus young stock, 18 hectares of bananas and 75 hectares of crop land.

 Through this farm, and all Lifesong sustainable businesses,

Parents can provide for their children

Children can attend school

Cycles of poverty can be overcome

Job skills can be attained

The Zambian economy can be strengthened

Want to learn more about Lifesong sustainable businesses? Click here to learn about the Lifesong Lodge and Roast Cafe.