Cynthia Chipango
One internship tip from a lecturer changed Cynthia Chipango's career – and she's been paying it forward ever since.
Profile
Name: Cynthia Chipango
Country: Zambia
Current Occupation: Economist
Virtual Internships 2023 with Scenario X
Winner of the Special Award (Trip to Switzerland in 2024)
How did you learn about B360?
I learned about B360 from my university. Ms. Rabecca Hatoongo, my lecturer at the time, contacted me(us) on the opportunity to apply for a Virtual Internship under B360, that’s how I came to know of it.
What impact did B360 have on your (professional) life?
B360 had a huge impact on my professional life. Through the internship, I was given the opportunity to work with Scenario X, a company that took the time and patience to teach me not just what to do, but how to do it well. I learned the importance of delivering quality work, meeting deadlines, paying attention to detail, and being an effective team member.
Beyond the internship itself, the mentorship and coaching provided by B360 helped me grow in confidence and professionalism. Looking back, I can clearly see the difference B360 made. It equipped me with skills, a strong work ethic, and a mindset that continue to guide me throughout my career today.
Can you describe a moment where you realized that your experience with B360 had an impact beyond yourself?
I realized B360's impact went beyond me when I started sharing what I had learned with others. Whether it was helping friends strengthen their CVs and application documents, helping a friend prepare for an interview, reviewing presentations, or helping others better showcase their strengths and capabilities, I found myself passing on lessons I first learned through B360. Seeing people gain confidence and secure opportunities through that guidance made me realize that B360 creates an impact that extends far beyond its direct participants.
What is one concrete change (in your behavior, decisions, or environment) that can be traced back to B360?
One change I can directly trace back to B360 is my confidence in professional settings. Before the program, I often doubted myself and hesitated to share my ideas. B360 taught me that preparation, professionalism, and continuous learning create confidence. Today, I am much more comfortable speaking in meetings, presenting my work, and taking on responsibilities that I would have once shied away from.
Who is a person you met through B360 that left a lasting impression on you – and why?
I've met a number of people through B360 who have left lasting impressions on me, so it's honestly hard to choose just one. But if I had to, I'd mention my mentor and supervisor at Scenario X, Njabulo.
There were times when I felt completely stuck and questioned whether I was capable of getting through certain tasks. Somehow, he always knew when I needed guidance. He was patient, never made me feel inadequate for not knowing something, and often went out of his way, even after work hours, to help me understand and deliver my best. Not only did I learn so much on professionalism, I also grew much as a person from his mentorship.
If you'll allow me to cheat a little, I'd also love to mention my host dad, Stefan. I only spent about two weeks with him, but his outlook on life and the joy he finds in the little things has stayed with me ever since. What amazes me most is that years later, he still shows up for important moments in my life, cheers me on from afar, and is often one of the first people to wish me a happy birthday. I may have only spent two weeks with him, but I gained a lifelong cheerleader and friend.
What kind of impact do you hope B360 will have in the next 10 years – and what role do you see yourself playing in that?
I hope B360 continues giving young people opportunities they may never have had access to otherwise. For many of us, it was more than just an internship program, it was our first real exposure to the professional world and a chance to learn from people who genuinely wanted to see us succeed. Over the next 10 years, I hope that B360 reaches even more young people and continues building confidence, skills, and connections that can change lives.
As for my role, I'd love to give back in the same way others gave to me. Whether through mentoring, sharing my experiences, or supporting participants as they find their ways in their own journeys, I'd like to be part of helping the next generation grow and realize their potential.
