Josphat Maimisa, a Master of Sports Management (MSM) graduate from Rockview University, is a leading figure in Zambian youth sports development, particularly in football. His journey reflects a rare combination of technical expertise, grassroots passion, and a deep commitment to social impact. Trained by FIFA through the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ), Maimisa has developed a comprehensive understanding of football administration, coaching, and community development, which he channels into nurturing young talent and fostering inclusive sports environments.
A Chilanga District-based influencer, Maimisa has leveraged his knowledge and visibility to promote grassroots football and youth empowerment. He is a pivotal part of Progress Sport Club, champions of the 2022/23 FAZ Lusaka Province Division One Women’s Championship, contributing both as an administrator and mentor. In his role as General Secretary of the Zambia Schools Sports Association (ZASSA), Lusaka Province, he has overseen programs that produced gold-medal-winning teams in the under-13 and under-17 girls’ categories, demonstrating his ability to combine leadership with hands-on coaching.
At the core of Maimisa’s work is a passion for uplifting the girl child. Recognizing the challenges girls face in accessing education and sporting opportunities, he integrates football, education, and life skills training to empower them to overcome societal barriers. His initiatives focus on developing holistic, responsible citizens capable of leadership both on and off the field. By blending mentorship, skill development, and social guidance, he is creating pathways for girls to achieve their full potential.
Beyond the pitch, Maimisa serves as Head of the Expressive Arts Department at Lukamantano Secondary School, fostering creativity, discipline, and teamwork among students. He also contributes to policy and community sports planning as a member of the Chilanga District Sports Advisory Committee (DSAC) under the Ministry of Youth, Sport, and Arts, ensuring that sports programs align with broader educational and societal goals.
A strong advocate for capacity building among coaches, Maimisa encourages peers to pursue continuous professional development, understanding that quality coaching translates into more effective community engagement and youth empowerment. He believes that sustainable sports development starts with well-trained coaches who can inspire, educate, and lead with integrity.
Maimisa’s academy has produced a remarkable generation of talent, including:
Lukas Mainza, goalkeeper for Nkwazi Football Club
Brian Masanyinga at Power Dynamos Football Club
Bertha Imponene, a Zambia Police Service officer
Gift Chisha, currently in Morocco competing with the Zambia National Under-17 Girls Football Team at the FIFA World Cup
Justina Zulu at Zanaco Ladies
Notably, Suwilanji Chibesa and Tionge Sambo, who frequently headline football sports news in Zambia
These success stories demonstrate the tangible impact of Maimisa’s grassroots development model, combining skill development, mentorship, and life skills to produce athletes who excel both on and off the field.
Together with colleagues like Mr. Joseph Mumbi, club coordinator and Physical Education Teacher at Mt Makulu Secondary School, Maimisa is eager to change the narrative in Chilanga, promoting football as a tool for youth empowerment, education, and social development. Their collective vision focuses on strengthening grassroots programs, empowering the girl child, and creating sustainable opportunities for young talent across the district.
Maimisa’s vision extends beyond winning trophies; it is about creating lasting social impact. His work bridges the gap between grassroots sports and national development agendas, showing that football can be a tool for education, social inclusion, and empowerment. By investing in young talent—particularly girls—and promoting education alongside athletics, he is reshaping the landscape of Zambian football and youth development.
As a Chilanga District-based influencer, coach, administrator, and educator, Josphat Maimisa exemplifies leadership rooted in service, knowledge, and a profound love for grassroots football. His story is a testament to the transformative power of sports when combined with education and community-focused initiatives. Through his work, countless young Zambians, particularly girls, gain opportunities, skills, and confidence to thrive in a society where such chances are often limited.
Inspiring, hands-on, and visionary, Maimisa continues to champion equity, education, and empowerment, calling on fellow coaches, educators, and stakeholders to join him in building a stronger, more inclusive, and sustainable sporting future for Zambia.
