Monique has been a Moja Tu sponsor since the organization’s inception 10 years ago. She has also served as a board member and supported the organization in various ways. Her journey over the past 10 years gives us a peek into the life-changing power of sponsorship.
“Moja Tu has been a part of my life for a long time. I’ve known Kathy and Christine, the co-founders, for over 12 years, and I served as an early board member for three years. I began sponsoring Elizabeth in 2013. During a visit to Kenya in 2015, I met Edwin and started sponsoring him, giving him the opportunity to finish university. Elizabeth is now in her first year of university, and Edwin graduated and is now the Director of Programs and Operations for Moja Tu. I’m so proud of them both.
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I first started sponsoring. I’d never done anything like it, but I had long been involved in helping my community through various volunteer efforts, so it was a good next step for me. I was struck by how positive Elizabeth was despite the obstacles she had overcome and most surely would have faced had it not been for Moja Tu. I met Edwin when he was mentoring and tutoring at a children’s home, giving back even though he couldn’t finish school at the time. I remember thinking how impressed I was with their determination and their selflessness.
Becoming a sponsor has made me see life through a different lens. I was definitely pushed outside my comfort zone. Connecting with someone from a different country, culture, and background via letters and video calls can be intimidating, but it is so rewarding to think about all I’ve learned from both of my students. At times, life can get too complicated, and it’s easy to get distracted by everything around us.
Elizabeth and Edwin want to be the best versions of themselves, be successful, give back to their community, and ultimately make a difference. They are our future, and I have no doubt they will succeed. I consider them part of my family. When I got married earlier this year, my husband told me after hearing me talk about my “Moja Tu kids” that he couldn’t wait to meet them. I will forever be grateful for the opportunity to sponsor a student. The sponsorship has allowed me to expand my empathy toward others. It has also enabled me to love children across the world.”
You, too, can reap the benefits of sponsorship and help transform a life by sponsoring an eligible student today.