Personal Journeys of Transformation

Grace

My name is Grace and my journey has been truly exciting and allowed me to pursue my passion for cooking. The sponsorship support I received provided me with the chance to complete my education and ultimately begin a successful career in the hospitality industry.

I started my academic journey at Nelson Mandela Primary School, then moved on to GSU Primary School, and finally progressed to St.Tito High School. I then joined Mountain Top Institute where I took a course in hospitality. These steps were crucial in training me for my current position at Waterbucks Hotel in Nakuru where I work in the pastry department, after being promoted from the kitchen.

I am deeply grateful for the sponsorship program, and my success extends beyond transforming my own life to positively impacting that of my aunt. It brings me joy to say that I am thriving in my career and I remain open to exploring new opportunities. The program’s support and encouragement have played a crucial role in my success, and I strive to make the most of the opportunities given to me.

As someone who has benefited from the program, it warms my heart to witness its positive impact on individuals like me and to see the continued success of those who have received support. I hope for continued success in my career and endeavors, and I hope to inspire others with my story.

My Name Is Billal

I am Billal and my journey with Ngong Road Children’s Foundation (NRCF) began in 2009 when I joined the program and enrolled at Jagiet Academy for Grade 2. During this time, I lived with my mother and brother in the slums of Nairobi. The program played a crucial role by supporting my education and I successfully completed my Kenya Certificate of Primary Education exams in 2015 (the important 8th grade exam given to all Kenyan students).

With my sponsor’s continuing support, I joined Parklands Boys High School in 2016. The school environment was welcoming. I found other students from the program there and they were kind enough to guide me through my early high school years. I participated in music and drama festivals, achieving regional levels with a solo song. Football (which Americans call soccer) was my favorite sport, and I actively took part. Knowing that NRCF was there to provide support made my school life secure. I completed my high school studies in 2019.

After completing high school, NRCF extended its support by offering life skills training, sexual reproductive health talks, and a valuable computer training program. This three-month training equipped me with essential computer skills in the Microsoft Suite. Guided by my caseworker, I enrolled at the Kenya Institute of Professional Studies (KIPS), for a certificate course in sales and marketing. The 18-month course provided me with relevant skills for a career in marketing. I then went for a three-month attachment at Nairobi Women’s Hospital, starting as a Customer Service Attendant and eventually becoming a Customer Relations Officer where I was responsible for guiding a group of Customer Service Attendants.

In July, 2022, I secured a position at Metrocare Health Clinic as an assistant marketer. My responsibilities included attracting new and repeat clients, promoting the clinic, and establishing partnerships with corporations and insurance entities. In July 2023, I was promoted to the role of Business Development Officer, a significant achievement for my age. At the same time, I volunteered as a Youth Peer Provider at the NRCF Sexual and Reproductive Health Program, allowing me to share my knowledge with peers and enhancing my CV. I have also been attending employment programs offered by NRCF that covered topics like interviewing skills and growing interpersonal skills, which have already helped me navigate the employment market.

I express my gratitude to my sponsor, for her unwavering support and love. Looking ahead, my future plans involve starting my own business and expanding my studies, including a growing interest in medicine. I would also like to thank the NRCF program for their continued support and for guiding me through my transformational journey.