Today, John teaches electrical engineering at MOHI’s MTTI skills training center, helping people living in extreme poverty develop skills that can lead to employment and income. But years before he stood at the front of a classroom, he faced those same hardships, often missing school because his parents could not consistently afford the fees.
“Every time I stand in front of my students, I see my own story. I grew up in the same conditions,” he says. “That motivates me to keep imparting skills they can use to make their lives better.”
Finding Room to Learn and Grow
John grew up in Mathare, an informal urban settlement in Nairobi. His parents worked casual jobs to support their family, but their earnings were unpredictable. Paying school fees consistently was difficult, and John often missed classes.
During a home visit, a MOHI social worker spoke with his parents about the ministry’s program. John subsequently enrolled at MOHI’s Pangani school.
“My fee was taken care of, I had books, loving teachers, and I’d eat at school,” John says. “I could now concentrate in class unlike before.”
With fewer interruptions to his education, John could give more attention to learning. Nutritious meals and access to medical care supported his health, while daily devotions helped nurture his faith.
“We were taught the Word of God and given hope for a brighter future, despite coming from poor backgrounds,” he says.
This care extended to his family. Two of his brothers also joined the MOHI program, and access to treatment and medication eased some of the financial pressure his parents faced.
For John, these different kinds of support worked together. He could attend school, receive care when he needed it, and learn about the God who loved him.
Encouragement That Became Personal
As a child, John dreamed of becoming a pilot. His sponsors took an interest in that dream and sent books about aviation and aeronautical engineering.
“They motivated me and made me believe that my dream was achievable.”
Their attention mattered. Beyond helping him attend school, they showed John that someone wanted to know him and encourage his interests.
“Having someone who walks alongside you and is interested in your life is wonderful,” he says.
Pursuing a New Direction
John later moved to a MOHI boarding facility, where he could focus more fully on his studies. After completing primary school, he continued to high school with MOHI’s support.
“MOHI provided all the supplies I needed for admission to high school. They paid my school fees, which allowed my parents to focus on other family needs,” he says.
During high school, his interests shifted from aviation to electrical engineering. He pursued electrical and electronic engineering at a Christian institution, then earned an instructor’s certification at a vocational training college.
That preparation led him back to MOHI, this time as a trainer. Today, he earns a stable income, rents his own home, and helps support his family.
His faith also finds expression in service. Alongside his teaching, John takes an active role in his church, supporting worship and serving young people.
Skills That Open Doors for Others
One of John’s greatest joys is seeing students put their training to work.
He remembers a student who completed his course, began a workplace placement, and was hired by the same company. After gaining experience, the former student opened an electronics business and employed others.
“This student's success represents something much bigger than just employment. He is a living testimony that skills can open doors, not only for you but for other people as well.”
For John, teaching is a way to invest in people whose challenges he understands. His story helps us see how God can work through years of learning, encouragement, and faithful relationships, with effects that reach beyond one person.
“MOHI gave me a chance to impact others the way it impacted my life,” he says.
John gives God the credit for the growth he has experienced and continues to pray for others.
“I am a transformed person, and I pray that God continues to transform more lives the same way He transformed mine.”
Please pray for John and his students as they develop their skills, grow in faith, and serve others.
If you sponsor a child, consider sending a message through your sponsorship account. Ask about their interests and what they hope to learn. As John’s story reminds us, being known and encouraged can leave a lasting impression.
If you don’t yet sponsor a child, consider taking that step. Sponsorship is an opportunity to walk alongside a child through education, care, prayer, and encouragement as they grow. Learn more about child sponsorship with MOHI.
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