A Life Transformed: Mary’s Journey with Missions of Hope International

As a single mother of two, Mary faced the challenges of raising her children while pursuing her own dreams. Her journey with Missions of Hope International (MOHI) began when she decided to take a bold step toward a brighter future. She enrolled in a Diploma in Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE), hoping to build a career that would support her family and serve her community. Little did she know, this choice would start a transformative journey, leading her to a life of purpose and impact.

While studying for her diploma, Mary met several MOHI staff members in her class who often shared stories of their work. They described how their roles empowered their communities and how MOHI’s mission had impacted their own lives.

When Mary graduated, one of her classmates encouraged her to apply to MOHI as a kindergarten teacher. Teaching had always been her passion, and she felt drawn to the idea of working with an organization focused on holistic transformation. She decided to submit her application, and soon afterward, she received a message that would change her life—she had been accepted to join MOHI as a teacher at the Kiamaiko Center in the same community she and her children called home.

Excited by the opportunity, Mary enrolled her children at the Kiamaiko Center as soon as she started working there. This new chapter brought joy and stability into their lives. Each day, she and her children would go to school together and return home as a family—a dream Mary hadn’t thought possible.

Not long after, another opportunity arose at Korogocho Nyayo Center, another MOHI school that needed a kindergarten teacher. Mary was invited to transfer. Though she felt nervous about leaving Kiamaiko's familiar setting, Mary decided to step out of her comfort zone, trusting that this new opportunity was part of God’s plan.

At Korogocho Nyayo, Mary found her calling. She became part of a community of supportive colleagues who encouraged her to take on new responsibilities and leadership roles. She began each day with her colleagues in staff devotions, where her faith deepened and her confidence grew. Soon, her colleagues recognized her passion and insight, and they often asked her to lead these devotions.

Mary’s personal growth began to extend into her local church, where she found new opportunities to lead and share her faith. “I learned sound doctrine during these devotions and took it to my church. I was then often asked to share.” Mary was finding purpose not just at work but in her community, too.

In her role, Mary also attended MOHI’s Core Teachers Training Program, which taught her how to create a nurturing, supportive classroom environment. This training broke down barriers between students and teachers and challenged cultural norms that often hinder open communication.

“The training challenged me. I wondered if I could also use the skills I learned with my own children,” Mary says.

At home, Mary put her training into practice, building a close relationship with her children that soon became the talk of her community. “People started to ask me how I did it, how I became so close with my children,” Mary said with a chuckle. “My children tell me everything; they are not afraid to share.” It can be part of African culture that parents and children do not have an open relationship, but Mary and her children differ because of the skills she learned at MOHI.

Over the past 12 years at Korogocho Nyayo, MOHI has profoundly transformed Mary’s life. Through daily devotions and training, she found her voice, strengthened her faith, and discovered new ways to lead and serve others. Her impact extends beyond her school into her community and church, where she continues to be a guiding light for those around her.

Today, Mary serves as the lead kindergarten teacher at Korogocho Nyayo, sharing her wisdom and experience with other educators and aspiring teachers. “MOHI has changed my life significantly, and I couldn’t be more grateful for all the support and guidance I have received,” Mary says with a proud smile on her face.

Mary’s story is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of faith, community, and stepping into the unknown. Her journey illustrates how Missions of Hope International continues to change lives, one person and one family at a time.