Education is a powerful tool for change, but for many students from disadvantaged backgrounds, it remains an uncertain dream. For Jonathan Nakoda, this dream was nearly lost due to financial struggles. However, with determination, resilience, and the support of Moja Tu, he has turned his aspirations into reality. Today, he is well on his way to becoming a clinical medicine professional, proving that with the right support, no dream is too far-fetched.
Jonathan grew up in a large family where financial instability was a daily struggle. His mother, a day laborer, worked tirelessly to support him and his five younger siblings, all while caring for his ailing father. There were many nights when they didn’t know where their next meal would come from, let alone how they would afford school fees.
Despite these challenges, Jonathan was a brilliant student. He excelled in primary school, scoring 351 marks in his Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) exams. But instead of celebrating, he found himself facing an uncertain future. His family simply couldn’t afford to send him to high school.
“I had always believed that education was my way out of poverty,” he says. “But after primary school, I wasn’t sure I would ever step into a high school classroom.”
As his friends prepared to join secondary school, Jonathan feared being left behind. He even considered looking for casual jobs to help his mother instead of pursuing further studies. But just when it seemed like all hope was lost, Moja Tu stepped in.
Jonathan vividly remembers the moment he learned he had been selected for the Moja Tu sponsorship program. “When I received the news, I was overwhelmed with joy and relief,” he recalls. “It meant that someone out there believed in my potential and was willing to invest in my future.”
With Moja Tu’s support, Jonathan was able to join high school without worrying about school fees, books, or basic supplies. The organization ensured that he had everything he needed, allowing him to focus entirely on his studies. More than just financial aid, Moja Tu provided mentorship, career guidance, and emotional support, equipping Jonathan with the skills and confidence to excel.
Jonathan thrived in high school, proving time and again that he was meant for greatness. One of his proudest achievements was scoring an A- in his final high school exams—a moment that validated years of hard work and perseverance.
“Given my background, achieving such a grade was nothing short of a miracle,” he shares. “It proved to me that hard work truly pays off.”
His dedication paid off when he earned a spot to study Clinical Medicine at the university, bringing him one step closer to his dream of transforming healthcare in his community. Jonathan’s decision to pursue nursing was inspired by the healthcare challenges he witnessed in his village. Many people relied on traditional herbalists instead of trained doctors, often leading to tragic outcomes.
“I want to be part of the solution,” he says. “I want to educate my community about modern medicine and ensure that no one dies because they couldn’t access proper healthcare.”
Studying Clinical Medicine has been an eye-opening experience for Jonathan. He enjoys the practical aspect of his training, learning how to diagnose and treat patients, administer care, and engage with different medical cases.
Jonathan’s goal is to improve healthcare services in underserved areas. He hopes to work in hospitals, clinics, and public health initiatives, ensuring that quality medical care reaches even the most vulnerable populations.
In the long term, Jonathan aspires to specialize in medical-surgical nursing and later pursue a master’s degree in nursing education. He hopes to train and mentor future healthcare professionals, ensuring that more young people from disadvantaged backgrounds find opportunities to succeed—just like he did.
Jonathan credits Moja Tu, his sponsors Carlos and Christine, and his mentor Terry for playing a crucial role in his success.
“Moja Tu has shaped me into a confident, goal-oriented individual. Through mentorship, I’ve gained resilience, leadership skills, and self-awareness,” he shares.
He also emphasizes the importance of self-belief. “Challenges are not permanent. Stay focused, work hard, and never give up on your dreams. Success is about perseverance and having the right support system.”
Be the Reason a Student Succeeds
Jonathan’s story is a powerful reminder of the life-changing impact of education. Without sponsorship, he would never have made it to high school, let alone university. There are many more students like Jonathan—bright, ambitious, and full of potential—who are simply waiting for someone to believe in them. You can be that person.
Sponsor a student today at info@mojatu.org and help shape the future of a deserving young learner.