Friends,
A few weeks ago we received a surprise letter of thanks from Jane, a former primary student at Gentle Bells, our first partner school. She proceeded to secondary school and then university through KCEF scholarships provided in partnership with Education for all Children. When we asked Jane to share her story, she readily responded with the letter below, which I believe you will find inspiring. For only $50 per month or $600 per year, you can help promising students like Jane.
All the best,
Jennifer M. Jukanovich, Ph.D.
Executive Director, KCEF
My Journey of Resilience and Hope
I was born on March 1st, 2004, in Londiani, Kericho County, into a world full of challenges. Growing up in a humble home with a father struggling with addiction, life was not easy. Yet, amidst the difficulties, my potential shone through. A kind auntie noticed this and introduced me to a school that supported bright children from disadvantaged backgrounds.
I enrolled at Gentle Bells School, where Madam Esther, the school director, saw my promise and nurtured it. Looking back, I realize how far I’ve come, thanks to the support I received from KCEF and its partners.
The school’s feeding program ensured I had the strength to learn every day, and the digital literacy program gave me access to computers and skills that opened up a whole new world of learning, preparing me for the modern world.
But the most transformative experience was the ROPES program. It helped me discover who I truly am, taught me the values of responsibility, faith, and confidence, and prepared me to step into the next chapter of my life courageously. These lessons became invaluable when I transitioned into secondary school, joining a private school where most students came from affluent backgrounds. Thanks to ROPES, I was secure in my identity and confident in who I was.
With the help of KCEF, I secured a spot at Vanessa Grant Girls School. I was overjoyed, and my parents were ecstatic. My siblings beamed with pride, knowing their sister was headed to a prestigious school. My time at Vanessa Grant was marked by academic excellence and personal growth. I made lifelong friends and found mentors who guided me through life’s ups and downs.
Life, however, had its challenges. COVID-19 brought a one-year hiatus, during which I adapted to Zoom classes and helped my parents on the farm. Then, the unthinkable happened, I got pregnant in Form 3. But I was determined to continue my education. I joined Githinji Secondary School, balancing school and motherhood. Fueled by determination, I became school president, motivated to make my parents proud.
I completed my KCSE and pursued Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Dedan Kimathi University, fulfilling a dream I never imagined possible. Today, I am thrilled to continue my education through a second diploma program in Nursing, a dream that would not have been possible without KCEF’s support. I feel empowered, hopeful, and ready to embrace the future, carrying with me the lessons, love, and support that have shaped who I am.
This is my story of resilience, hope, and unwavering support. My parents and my daughter have been my rock, and I am deeply grateful for their love. I am proud of the person I have become, and I am excited for what lies ahead.
There were moments when giving up seemed easier, when the obstacles felt insurmountable. But I kept pushing forward, fueled by my dreams and the desire to build a better life for myself and my loved ones. I am grateful for the countless nights studying under dim lights, the early mornings, and the sacrifices my parents made to ensure I had a brighter future.
Through this journey, I have learned that no dream is too big and no obstacle too great. I have learned to believe in myself, trust my abilities, and never give up. I am a wife, a mother, and a healthcare professional in training, ready to make a difference in the world.
I am profoundly grateful to my family, friends, and mentors who have been instrumental in my journey. I owe a special debt of gratitude to KCEF, Madam Esther of Gentle Bells, Craig Hammon, and my penpal, Jennie Paglierani. Your unwavering support, belief, and generosity have been my guiding light. To every teacher, mentor, and friend who played a part in my journey, thank you.
My story is proof that resilience, hope, and love can overcome even the greatest challenges. And as I look to the future, I am committed to using my skills and knowledge to improve the lives of others and inspire those facing similar challenges.
~ Jane
We invite you to partner with KCEF in support of story’s like Jane’s! You can do so by donating online here or via check made payable to Kijabe Children’s Education Fund and mailed to 6 Maple Street, Essex, MA 01929.