“Marissa” was orphaned at an early age. She never had a chance to interact with her father. After the burial of her father in the village, the paternal uncles disowned and chased them away forcing the mother (widow) to find her way back to Nairobi, Kibera slums with her five children. She would do all odd jobs to put food on the table for her family and struggle to take them to primary school.
In 2023, Marissa’s academic prowess shone brightly as she scored an impressive 350 marks out of 500 in the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) exams. This achievement secured her a coveted spot at a National School-Butere Girls High School. However, the financial constraints came glaring and threatened to cast a shadow over Marissa’s educational aspirations.
Amidst the uncertainties, IDAK emerged as a beacon of hope for Marissa and her family. The organization, known for its commitment to building bridges and transforming lives through education, extended a scholarship to Marissa. This intervention not only alleviated the financial burden on the family but also provided Marissa with a lifeline to pursue her dreams of higher education.
Marissa dreams of breaking the cycle of financial hardships that has gripped her family by becoming a medical doctor. Her aspiration to contribute to changing her family’s livelihood is fueled by the resilience she has developed in the face of adversity. Despite the challenges, Marissa remains determined to excel academically and make a positive impact on her community.
Beyond academics, Marissa’s talents shine through her gift of singing and her skill in debating. These accomplishments not only underscore her well-rounded personality but also demonstrate her ability to excel in diverse fields. As a former school prefect, Marissa’s leadership qualities are evident, further highlighting her potential to inspire and guide her peers.
Marissa’s mother expressed profound gratitude for the scholarship provided by IDAK, saying,
The burden of providing for my children’s education has been overwhelming, and I often wondered how I would manage. IDAK’s scholarship has been a true blessing, a ray of hope in our darkest days. I am immensely thankful for the support that has enabled Marissa to continue her education and pursue her dreams.”
She continued, “This scholarship is not just a financial aid; it is a lifeline for our family. Marissa’s dreams are now within reach, and I am grateful to IDAK and its supporters for making this possible. May God bless everyone who has played a part in changing the trajectory of my daughter’s life.”