Jairus Mahasi is a 19-year-old nursing student at Kenyatta University. He is passionate about personal growth, and youth empowerment & development. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance, determination and having a strong support system. Reflecting on his background, Jairus shares, “My faith plays a significant role in shaping my values and approach to life. It provides me with a sense of purpose.”
His journey was not always filled with optimism. Growing up in a family that faced economic hardships, Jairus was unsure of his future after completing primary school. However, his encounter with Moja Tu became the turning point in his life, pulling him out of a bleak situation and offering him a pathway to success.
Like many students from underprivileged backgrounds, Jairus faced challenges ranging from school fees to access to basic needs. His dreams of joining high school seemed distant, and fear of the future overshadowed his life. “I lived in constant fear about my future, unsure if I would ever make it to high school,” Jairus admits.
However, he did not let these hardships break him. He recognized the transformative potential of education but needed external support to pursue it. This is where Moja Tu stepped in.
Moja Tu, which means “just one” in Swahili, provided Jairus with a full scholarship to one of the leading high schools in Kenya, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his life. Moja Tu’s support did not stop at finances. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the organization provided essential supplies like food items and sanitizers to his community. “They gave us what we needed to stay safe and healthy during that difficult time.”
Additionally, Moja Tu offered tutoring programs at Dreams Children’s Home, where Jairus gained academic support and mentorship. For Jairus, one of the most impactful aspects of Moja Tu’s involvement was the personal connection he developed with his sponsors, Joe and Jackie Kozlowski. He shares that his sponsors have been much more than financial supporters.
“They are my mentors, friends, and confidants. Through video calls, we’ve built a strong relationship, sharing ideas and experiences that have enriched my life in ways I couldn’t have imagined,” Jairus says.
Their ongoing guidance and personal connection have been key to his journey. Meeting them in person during their recent visit to Kenya was an unforgettable experience, and their support continues to push him toward achieving his dreams.
He credits Moja Tu and his sponsors with giving him the confidence to embrace leadership roles. Currently, Jairus serves as a student leader at Kenyatta University and is an active participant in the debate club. His debating skills have earned him recognition, including being named the best debater in a Kenyatta University Student Association event.
Now a nursing student, Jairus’ clinical placement at Thika Level 5 Hospital has proven to be another significant milestone. Working as the team lead in the Orthopedic Male Ward, Jairus has acquired critical skills in leadership, clinical procedures, and empathy. “This experience has been instrumental in bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application,” he reflects.
In addition to his clinical duties, Jairus plays a mentorship role to his fellow students, helping guide them through medical procedures. “Guiding my peers has been gratifying as I witness their growth and development,” he says, demonstrating his commitment to his own success and the success of others as well.
Looking ahead, Jairus has ambitious plans. He dreams of becoming a critical care nurse and passing the NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) exam to work abroad. “This will open doors to international practice, allowing me to bring my expertise to a global stage,” he shares. Additionally, he envisions pursuing a master’s degree in public policy to influence healthcare systems on a broader level.
Jairus’ journey, marked by resilience, mentorship, and the support of Moja Tu, showcases how a young person can rise from adversity and embrace a bright future. “My journey is not just about personal success; it’s about contributing to the well-being of others,” he concludes.