Cynthia is a senior at Mugoiri Girls High School. She is a brilliant, hardworking, and determined young lady. In November, she will be sitting for her high school exit exam, and we are thrilled she has achieved this huge milestone.
She lives with her single mother and two siblings. Her mother is a day laborer, and getting consistent work is very challenging, especially in the harsh economic situation in Kenya.
Before joining Moja Tu, Cynthia performed well in her primary school exit exam and was accepted into Mugoiri Girls High School, one of the leading high schools in Kenya. Through the help of well-wishers to help pay admission fees, she was able to attend school for a short time. That support soon ended, and Cynthia and her mother were left on their own to find a way to pay for school. Cynthia was sent home many times for unpaid school fees. During this trying time, Cynthia held on to the belief that she would eventually get help.
“It was heartbreaking to know that I may never get a chance to have a proper education. But I knew I could not give up. Being the firstborn meant that I had to work harder for my siblings in order to change our situation at home,” she said.
Cynthia was driven by her ambition to create a better life for her siblings and mother. She waited patiently, hoping a bit of luck would come her way. When Cynthia was starting to lose hope, her mother met a Moja Tu representative who encouraged Cynthia to apply for consideration for the scholarship. Her family’s financial situation, determination to get an education and academic performance made her eligible for the sponsorship.
“I cannot even describe the joy I felt that day. This was my chance to change my fate and that of my family and I knew I could not waste any minute of it.”, she said proudly.
The ability to attend school without worrying about school fees is something that Cynthia does not take for granted. In addition to the school fees, she’s also thankful for the additional tutoring support, school supplies, and transportation provided by the program.
“Moja Tu has consistently provided me with school fees and all other school expenses and requirements. I feel good and humbled to have been given a chance to be in school.”
She has worked hard to get good grades to achieve her dream of becoming a teacher. She plans to give back to her community by volunteering and actively participating in community development projects that will improve their lives.
“I would like to thank Moja Tu for empowering me through education. I am now hopeful of a bright future for my family and I.”
We cannot wait to share updates on Cynthia’s progress.