After completing school, Michael travelled to Lusaka with little money and a bag of clothes. He found work at a small hardware shop, earning just enough to pay rent and buy food.
Life was difficult. Some nights, he went to bed hungry. But he refused to surrender.
During the day, he worked at the shop. In the evenings, he studied business management using borrowed books and free online lessons.
Whenever he received his salary, he sent a portion to his mother.
"Keep some for yourself," Grace would tell him over the phone.
"I will, Mum. Don't worry about me."
Years passed, and Michael eventually started a small business selling building materials. His first months were discouraging. Customers were few, debts accumulated, and there were moments when he considered giving up.
Then he met Patrick, an ambitious businessman who introduced him to larger suppliers and potential clients.
With time, Michael's business began to grow.
His first major contract changed everything.
Within five years, he owned several shops, drove an expensive vehicle, and became known as one of the youngest successful businessmen in his area.
The promise beneath the mango tree was finally within reach.
But success was changing Michael in ways he did not recognise.