By TROY MUKUPA
In a world where distractions abound, Luckford Phiri, CEO of Eastluck General Dealers, reminds young people that putting God first is the key to achieving true success and fulfillment in life. As the Christian community celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ during Easter, Phiri shares his powerful testimony.
Eastluck General Dealers, the company Phiri leads, has established itself as one of the leading and trusted car dealership companies in the region. With offices in Lusaka, Zambia, and Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, the company has built a reputation for excellence and customer satisfaction. As its client base continues to grow across neighboring countries, Eastluck General Dealers is poised for further expansion, with plans to open new office spaces in the near future. This growth is a testament to the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality services and its vision for regional dominance. Phiri’s leadership and vision have been instrumental in the company’s success, and he attributes this success to his faith.
“My faith has been the bedrock of my success as an entrepreneur,” Phiri said. “Without God, Eastluck General Dealers wouldn’t be where it is today. I’ve seen first-hand the impact that faith can have on one’s life and business.” For Phiri, prioritizing his relationship with God and seeking guidance from scripture has been crucial in navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship.
One notable example is when Eastluck General Dealers faced a significant set-back in its early days. Phiri’s faith helped him stay resilient and focused, and he was able to lead the company to overcome the challenge and thrive.
Phiri emphasized the importance of youths making time to read and reflect on the word of God, citing the benefits of spiritual growth, wisdom, and direction. “Faith is not just about attending church on Sundays; it’s about living a life that reflects God’s love and teachings every day,” he said. By prioritizing their faith, young people can better navigate life’s challenges and make decisions that align with their values. For instance, Phiri’s commitment to integrity and compassion in business has earned Eastluck General Dealers a loyal customer base and a reputation for trustworthiness.
Beyond his professional life, Phiri credits his supportive wife, whom he affectionately calls his “pillar,” for being a constant source of encouragement. Married for nine years, they have four beautiful children together, including twin-girls born recently. Phiri believes that a strong family foundation is essential for success and emphasizes the importance of raising children in God’s love and teachings. “As parents, we have a responsibility to instill values of faith, integrity, and compassion in our children,” he said. By doing so, parents can help their children develop a strong foundation for life and empower them to make positive contributions to society.
As a church elder at the Reformed Church of Zambia [RCZ] and current head of Mungule RCZ branch, located at 10 miles Lusaka, Phiri’s faith is deeply rooted in his community and spiritual life. Additionally, he has served as church treasurer for the past four years, further demonstrating his commitment to his faith and community. Reflecting on his journey with God, Phiri humbly acknowledges, “In everything I am, it’s all because of God’s grace and love. My journey is a testament to the power of faith and the blessings that come from trusting in Him.”
Looking ahead, Phiri shared his vision for Eastluck General Dealers, stating, “This year and beyond, we aim to continue expanding our services, exploring new markets, and creating opportunities for young entrepreneurs to thrive. I urge youths to consider entrepreneurship as a viable career path, leveraging their skills and passions to build successful businesses that can positively impact their communities.”