Maria is a third-year communication and media studies student. She reflects of her time with Moja Tu.
When did you join Moja Tu?
I joined Moja Tu in November 2018.
How old were you then and at what level of education?
I was 22 years old and I had dropped out of college since my parents could no longer afford the school fees. Then my dad passed on and I had to look for work to support my mum. I didn’t give up hopes of going back to school.
How did you come to know about Moja Tu?
Prior to my dad passing on, he opened up to a friend that I had dropped out of school due to school fees. The friend knew about Moja Tu and he asked me to send my application. He gave his recommendation to Kathy, who I got to meet a few weeks later. I was enlisted into the program. After some time, I received the good news that I had found a sponsor.
What was your reaction when you learned you had been sponsored?
I was so happy. I knew my life and that of my family would be changed and it has for sure.
Looking back, what would you say has changed the most for you?
I was so shy when I joined the program, but Moja Tu has helped mold me to become confident and unlock my potential. I am now a team leader and this opportunity has helped me gain leadership skills, which will be very helpful in the corporate world.
Who is your sponsor and what’s your relationship with them?
My sponsor is Brenda. When we first met, through the video call, we clicked and made a connection. She has done the same course as me and this made us understand each other better. 
I love her so much. She has become a friend, family member, and someone I look up to.
How does she inspire you?
Brenda made me believe that I can achieve anything I set my mind to. Whenever I talk to her about my goals, she tells me I can do it.
What are your dreams and aspirations?
My dream is to be the pillar of my family and also help sponsor many kids to get a better education. Moja Tu has really inspired me to do this and I can’t wait to sponsor students in Moja Tu. I aspire to start my own advertising and public relations agency.
What keeps you going?
I want to succeed and thereafter be in a position to help my family and community at large. My goals and family keep me going. Now, I am just happy to be in school and learning all there is to learn to make me a responsible citizen. There’s an old saying that you can’t pour from an empty cup. Essentially it means that we have to take care of ourselves in order to take care of others. I can say that through the help of Moja Tu, I am building me now so that I can build others later.