Zambia midfielder Jessica Choolwe Johnson is a young talent with big dreams. At just 15 years old, she has already made a name for herself on the football field, helping lead the Copper Princesses to the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco 2025. But Johnson is not just focused on her football career – she is also diligently preparing for her final exams in May, next month.
Despite the demanding schedule of international football, Johnson has been balancing her training sessions with her studies at Kibworth Mead Academy in Leicester, United Kingdom. In a recent interview with FAZ Media, she opened up about the challenges of juggling her two passions.
“It hasn’t been easy, but I am committed to doing well in both football and my studies. I know education is just as important as my football career and I am grateful to have the support of my family, my school, club, and the coaches in Zambia to pursue both my dreams,” Johnson shared.
With her exams looming, Johnson has been carrying her study books with her to training sessions, making sure to find time to review her lessons. She emphasized the importance of time management and staying focused, drawing on the discipline she has learned from football to excel in her studies.
Despite the pressures of exams, Johnson is thrilled to be part of the historic qualification of Zambia to the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco. She expressed her pride in representing her country and her determination to succeed both on the field and in the classroom.
“It’s a huge honor to help Zambia qualify again. Wearing the Copper Princesses’ national jersey means everything to me. I want to play at the highest level, but I also want to have a strong education behind me because I believe you can have both,” Johnson stated.
Her dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed by her teammates. Copper Princesses captain Mercy Chipasula praised Johnson for her adaptability and drive, highlighting her as an inspiration to the team.
“Jessica inspires all of us. She’s always focused, always asking questions and always improving. She proves that with the right mindset, you can chase more than one dream at the same time,” Chipasula commended.
As Johnson continues to navigate the challenges of balancing her football career and her studies, she serves as a shining example of determination and ambition. With her eyes set on success both on and off the field, she is proving that with hard work and perseverance, anything is possible.
