“There is no better exercise for the heart than reaching down and helping those in need,” For KCB Rugby’s flyhalf Stephen ‘Zola’ Osumba, this adage is a way of life.Download our Mozzart Sport app for more newsWhile the talented halfback continues to pull the strings on the pitch, it is what he does off it that is quietly touching lives and leaving a lasting impact.The International Studies graduate from Strathmore University has dedicated much of his time to volunteering, particularly at Promise Giving Children’s Home in Umoja.Kabras RFC youngster plots swift Shujaa return after recoveryOn Saturday, 25 April, during KCB’s Kenya Cup semifinal clash against Nondies RFC, Zola will be collecting donations to support the children.The following day, Sunday, 26 April, he is expected to visit the home once again, continuing a journey that began as part of his academic coursework but has since evolved into something far more personal.“When I started my service-based learning at Strathmore University, we had to volunteer in the community to try to make a change. ##NAJAVA_MECA_9698383##But while volunteering at Promise Giving, I was really able to understand the challenges the children face daily, and how much they have overcome. Despite everything, they are extremely happy,” Zola told Mozzart Sport.That experience changed him.“It really comes from a special place in the heart. There’s a kind of satisfaction that comes from helping others and knowing you’ve impacted their life in one way or another. Sometimes, we all need a hand in life,” he continued.Mike Friday sympathises with Kenya Sevens over 'grossly unfair' HSBC SVNS decisionRaised in Tena Estate, Umoja, Zola’s path to rugby was not always clear. Like many young boys in Nairobi estates, football was his first love. He honed his skills at the Mathare Youth Sports Association (MYSA), never imagining that rugby would one day define his future.That turning point came at St. Mary’s School, Yala, one of Kenya’s rugby powerhouses. It was there that in Form Two, he made the bold switch from football to rugby, inspired by school greats such as Eden Agero and Isaac Adimo.The decision would prove life-changing.##NAJAVA_MECA_9693703##By his final year, Zola had caught the attention of KCB scouts during the national championships. He soon joined the club, navigating early challenges before announcing himself in style in 2018, when he was crowned Most Valuable Player as KCB lifted the Impala Floodlit Tournament.Yet even as his rugby career blossomed, Zola remained grounded in purpose.“It means a lot to me. To get to where I am, I’ve had several people beyond my parents who have impacted my life positively. My way of honouring them is by paying it forward and giving back to the community,” he offered.Why Blak Blad are not under pressure ahead of their clash with KabrasBalancing elite sport and consistent charity work is no easy feat, but for Zola, it is non-negotiable.“There’s honestly no balance. You just have to make time. If something matters to you, you’ll make time for it. And you’d be amazed by how many people are willing to support a good initiative,” he said.Still, the work comes with its challenges, particularly in planning and funding.##NAJAVA_MECA_9694672##“It requires an immense amount of planning. Sometimes we may not have enough funds for everything, but we try to prioritise the essentials and supplement where we can,” he said.Even in moments of doubt, Zola finds perspective.“Sometimes you may feel like you haven’t done enough for the children, but you have to take a step back and appreciate what has been done, and then try to do more,” he disclosed.Shujaa land in tough pool ahead of Valladolid SVNS World ChampionshipThrough it all, one thing that has continued to stand out to him is kindness.“People are so kind. No one is alone; there’s always someone ready to lend a hand,” he said.His experiences at the children’s home have also reshaped his outlook on life.##NAJAVA_MECA_9694706##“I realised there’s so much to be grateful for. We are often wired to focus on what we lack, but I’ve learned to appreciate what I have. It has helped me face life with a more positive mindset, knowing someone else might have it much harder,” he averred.For Zola, the goal is not recognition or applause.“Just being remembered is enough for me. Being remembered for kindness, for lending a hand, for trying to better someone else’s life, that’s what truly matters,” the softspoken flyhalf said.