We are born not knowing what the future holds for us. I came to understand this more and more as I grew older. Being born into a family where my mother was the sole breadwinner, I learnt early on how a woman can be hardworking, independent and focused. I won’t say that my mum was a single parent, but my dad’s presence didn’t matter to us.

She was a small-scale businesswoman who ensured that all our basic needs were met with the little she earned. She would do all this without any hesitation. When we lost our mum, I was in class 8, while my elder siblings had completed high school. I felt like the world had come to a standstill. Moreover, I was to sit for KCPE exams in a few weeks.

My dad was nowhere to be found to offer the support we needed. We then had to depend on our relatives. However, it was difficult for them as they had their own families. I was fortunate that my teachers, having seen my potential, promised to support me financially for the remaining time in primary school. Amid the grief and all the changes in my life, I completed my exams and passed very well.

However, I was stranded with no idea of where the money I needed to attend high school would come from. I could see my dreams evaporating, and it seemed as though it would be the end of my studies. Deep inside, I remained hopeful that God still had a plan for me.

With the help of my relatives, I tried applying for sponsorships from other providers with no success. A family friend then introduced me to the Co-op Bank Foundation, where I applied and was successful! My prayers were heard, and I joined my dream school, Machakos Girls’ High School.

My learning experience in high school was such a smooth ride. I thank the Foundation for investing in my education. The desire to be a focused, independent lady like my mother in future also motivated me to put my best foot forward. I told myself that I must conquer all odds.

After an exemplary performance in KCSE, I was selected as one of the 28 beneficiaries to be part of the University Scholarship Program for that year (now it is 56). Words cannot explain how grateful I am to the Co-operative Bank Foundation. I cannot repay the Foundation’s kindness for all they have done for me. At the age of 14, I couldn’t imagine how my future would be. I almost gave up, but I am so glad I didn’t.

In those moments of doubt, I kept the verse Jeremiah 29:11 close to my heart. God knows His plans for us, to prosper us and not to harm, to give us hope and a future.