At the heart of Moja Tu’s mission is the belief that one meaningful connection can transform a life, and Melissa and Anastacia are living proof of that. What began as a sponsorship has blossomed into a deep personal journey of empowerment, resilience, and hope. When Melissa visited Kenya this year and met her sponsored students in person, the impact of her support came to life in unforgettable ways. Here’s their story.
Melissa’s Story: A Journey of Impact and Inspiration
Melissa first heard about Moja Tu more than a decade ago from founder Kathy when the organization was still a bold dream. “She inspired me to become a sponsor as her work in Kenya has been incredible.”
That spark moved Melissa to sponsor a student, and it has kept her committed ever since. This April, she finally flew across continents to see the dream in action again, stepping into Kenya to meet her sponsored students, Anastacia and Collins, face‑to‑face.
Visiting Kenya again was illuminating for Melissa. She met the families of her sponsored students and gained insight into their daily lives. “It painted a complete picture of their lives beyond the student calls we do throughout the year,” she says. “Meeting Anastacia is a moment I’ll never forget.”
A pivotal moment during the trip was when Melissa joined the Moja Tu team in visiting schools and interviewing potential students. “It helped me understand how important this work is and the true effect it has had on so many lives,” she says. Beyond tuition support, she witnessed mentorship, extracurricular programs, and holistic empowerment initiatives in action.
Melissa speaks passionately about Anastacia’s qualities: “Her grit. She is industrious and, despite adversity, continues to move confidently toward her dreams.” Watching Anastacia progress through her educational journey fills Melissa with pride and purpose.
“Not only are you making an impact in your students’ lives, but also their family and communities,” she says. “This is a much broader impact than I initially realized, and it is so heartwarming to be able to be a part of it.”
Anastacia’s Story: From Uncertainty to Unstoppable
For Anastacia, now a third‑year law student, Melissa’s arrival was a dream fulfilled. “Meeting Melissa in person was a dream come true,” she shares. “It wasn’t just a sponsor meeting a student—it felt like family.” They spent two unforgettable weeks together, creating memories and strengthening their unique bond.
Before Melissa became her sponsor, Anastacia’s education was on the verge of collapse. “I was in Form 2 and on the verge of dropping out due to financial struggles,” she recalls. “It was one of the most uncertain and frightening periods of my life.” Melissa’s support turned her life around. “She took away the burden of school fees and the heavy weight of uncertainty.”
Anastacia’s outlook on life and her dreams changed dramatically. “Melissa’s sponsorship has completely transformed how I view my education and my future,” she says. “I now walk with confidence, knowing that someone believes in me.” Her dream of becoming a judge is alive and within reach, fueled by Melissa’s belief in her potential.
Looking ahead, Anastacia wants to become a voice for justice in her community. “I want to be a voice for justice and fairness in society,” she says. She also hopes to mentor and inspire other young people, especially girls, to believe in their dreams.
Her message to potential sponsors is simple but powerful: “Your support doesn’t just change one life—it transforms entire futures. Sponsorship is not just charity, it’s empowerment, it’s hope, and it’s the beginning of a better future for generations.”
Melissa and Anastacia’s journey is a powerful reminder that sponsorship is more than financial support; it’s a commitment to possibility, potential, and progress. From a chance meeting with Moja Tu’s founder to heartfelt connections built across continents, Melissa’s story and Anastacia’s transformation show us what happens when compassion meets opportunity. Together, they are proof that one ‘yes’ can spark a ripple effect that changes lives and communities forever.
Inspired by this Story?
You can be the reason another student dares to dream. Sponsoring with Moja Tu is more than financial support; it’s a meaningful connection that unlocks potential. Email info@mojatu.org or visit www.mojatu.org to sponsor a student today.