Rachel Mbula, once a Moja Tu beneficiary with uncertain prospects, is now a Moja Tu staff member, giving back to the organization that helped shape her future. Her journey with Moja Tu began as she approached high school entry exams. The thought of transitioning to high school felt like an impossible dream. Her family’s financial struggles made it uncertain whether she would continue her education.
That changed when she received news that Laura Sussman, her sponsor, had chosen to support her high school education. “I was overjoyed,” Rachel recalls. “It meant my dream of joining high school and pursuing an education could finally come true. I still remember my first Skype call with Laura like it was yesterday.”
Through Moja Tu, Rachel received more than just tuition support—she was provided with school shopping, revision books, and transport to and from school, ensuring she had everything she needed to focus on her studies. The support continued through university, where Moja Tu covered her accommodation and upkeep, allowing her to concentrate fully on her degree.
Beyond financial assistance, Moja Tu played a critical role in career guidance. “Through Moja Tu’s career talks and advice, I was able to align my passions and interests, helping me choose the right course,” she explains. This led her to pursue a degree in Business and Information Technology, a field that combined her love for technology with practical business applications.
Like many students, Rachel faced academic struggles, particularly in Math and Chemistry. “In Form Three, I really struggled with these subjects,” she admits. However, Moja Tu provided tuition sessions and revision books, which helped her improve significantly. By the time she sat for her university entry exams, she had met her target grades.
The transition from university to the professional world was another challenge. “I was honestly scared,” she recalls. “I didn’t know where to start or how to navigate this next chapter.”
Moja Tu’s mentorship sessions came at the right time. With guidance from her mentor, Laura, she learned how to prepare a CV, enter the job market with confidence, and acquire complementary skills that would make her more competitive. “That mentorship really helped me feel ready for what was ahead, and I’m so grateful for that guidance,” she says.
Coming Full Circle: Giving Back to Moja Tu
After graduation, Rachel made a life-changing decision—to return to Moja Tu but this time, as a Program Coordinator. “What inspired me to return to Moja Tu is how much it shaped who I am today,” she explains. “Moja Tu gave me opportunities I never thought I’d have. Coming back felt like the right way to give back and help others the way I was helped.”
As part of the Moja Tu team, Rachel helps coordinate projects and student support initiatives. Her role allows her to mentor students who are in the same place she once was. “I see so much of myself in these students,” she says. “It’s an incredible feeling to be able to guide them and reassure them that they, too, can achieve their dreams.”
Reflecting on her journey, Rachel emphasizes the profound impact of education and mentorship. “The most valuable lesson I’ve learned is that education is a powerful tool that can transform lives. It not only opened doors for me but gave me the confidence to dream bigger and work toward a better future.”
She has a heartfelt message for Moja Tu sponsors and supporters:
“Because of your kindness, so many of us have been able to achieve things we never thought were possible. Your support means everything, and I hope you know how much of a difference you’re making.”
Rachel hopes that through her role at Moja Tu, she can continue to inspire and support students. Her journey is a full-circle moment—from a student in need of support to a professional who now uplifts others. Rachel’s story is a reminder of the ripple effect of education—one student’s success can go on to inspire and support many others.