As we celebrate International Women’s Day themed ‘Invest in women: Accelerate progress,’ we are inspired by two Moja Tu alumnae whose stories serve as a testament to the importance of investing in women’s education for societal progress. Through empowerment and support, women like Sharon and Dinel can break barriers, pursue their dreams, and inspire positive change in their communities. We hope their stories will inspire you to make a difference in the life of a young woman today.
Sharon Grace’s journey
Sharon Grace, a computer science graduate and an alumna of Moja Tu, recounts her seamless transition from high school to university, which was made possible through Moja Tu’s unwavering support.
Sharon acknowledges the pivotal role Moja Tu played in shaping her path. The organization’s financial support ensured she could attend classes without the burden of financial constraints, allowing her to focus wholeheartedly on her studies. Additionally, Moja Tu’s emphasis on leadership and responsibility prepared her for the professional world, instilling in her a sense of respect for authority and an aptitude for task management.
“I joined Moja Tu while I was in high school, and the realization that I could pursue my education without worry ignited my passion for computer science, ultimately influencing my decision to pursue it at the university level,” Sharon reveals.
This newfound passion, coupled with Moja Tu’s continuous support, propelled Sharon toward academic success and career readiness. In her professional endeavors, Sharon found herself immersed in the world of ICT at the Civil Registration Services Department, a company that keeps records of births, deaths, and immigration papers for the public. Here, she applied the skills acquired through her education, undertaking various roles such as network configuration, database installation, and web development. Through her experiences, Sharon discovered the significance of teamwork, a value instilled in her by Moja Tu, which proved invaluable in her workplace.
Despite encountering challenges along the way, including a car accident during her university years, Sharon persevered with the help of her support system, including her Moja Tu mentor, Cassie. Their guidance and encouragement enabled her to navigate difficult times and emerge stronger.
Reflecting on the broader impact of investing in women, Sharon emphasizes the transformative power of education. As the first woman in her family to venture into the technology field, Sharon attributes her success to the investment made by her Moja Tu sponsors, Soumya and Jennifer Ward. Their unwavering support not only propelled Sharon toward her dreams but also empowered her to serve as a role model for other young women in her community.
Looking towards the future, Sharon aspires to continue her journey in the tech industry, with plans to advance her studies and mentor aspiring technologists. “I am eternally grateful to Moja Tu for the pivotal role it has played in my education and career achievements,” Sharon, who is currently looking for a job, says, recognizing the organization’s profound impact on the lives of young women like herself.
Dinel’s Journey
Dinel’s story is a testament to the transformative power of education and support, exemplified by her remarkable journey with Moja Tu. She was introduced to Moja Tu during her second year of high school, a pivotal moment that marked the beginning of her path to success.
Before joining Moja Tu, Dinel faced academic challenges that threatened to derail her education. However, with Moja Tu’s intervention, she was able to overcome these obstacles and achieve a commendable B grade in her final high school exams. This pivotal moment set the stage for her continued academic journey, culminating in her graduation with a Bachelor’s degree in Film Technology and Theatre Arts from Kenyatta University.
“Moja Tu’s impact extended beyond financial assistance, providing me with invaluable opportunities for personal and professional growth. Through volunteering and mentorship programs, I honed my skills in videography, marketing, and leadership, preparing me for the demands of the working world,” Dinel reflects on her experiences, acknowledging the instrumental role played by her mentor, Laura, whose guidance and support helped shape her career trajectory.
Today, Dinel is a multifaceted professional, actively engaged in videography, editing, and teaching. Her roles span across various organizations, including Moja Tu, Nuclavis, Recorders Without Borders, and Ovotox International College, where she teaches diploma students. Her passion for film and education is evident in her dedication to both her craft and her students, embodying the spirit of empowerment instilled in her by Moja Tu.
As Dinel navigates the complexities of her career, she remains grateful for the unwavering support she received from Moja Tu. From financial assistance to mentorship and career guidance, she admits that Moja Tu has been a constant source of inspiration and empowerment in her life.
“I am committed to paying forward the opportunities afforded to me by Moja Tu. I aspire to mentor and empower young women, guiding them toward academic and professional success. Moreover, I hope to contribute my efforts to ensure the continued support and sustainability of programs like Moja Tu as they have a profound impact on the lives of young women across Kenya,” she shares.
Dinel’s and Sharon’s stories underscore the importance of investing in education and empowerment initiatives, reaffirming the belief that every girl has the potential to achieve greatness with the right opportunities and support system. Thank you for supporting us as we invest in women and accelerate their progress.