Lucy once believed nothing good could come from her life. Today, she leads on the basketball court, in the classroom, and in her faith. Her transformation shows what can happen when a child receives consistent love, holistic support, and the opportunity to discover their God-given potential at MOHI.
A Childhood Marked by Loss
Lucy is an eighteen-year-old Grade 10 student who has overcome more hardship than many face in a lifetime. She was raised by a single mother after her father passed away when she was in Grade 3. This loss affected her deeply.
She struggled emotionally and academically. With her mother unemployed, even basic needs were difficult to meet. Despite these challenges, Lucy refused to let her circumstances define her.
Her courage, resilience, and determination make her stand out among many.
A Mother’s Determination and a New Beginning
Seeking a way to provide for her daughter, Lucy’s mother enrolled in a knitting course so she could gain valuable skills and start her own business. After completing the course, she launched a small tailoring business. Although the income was modest, it was enough to feed and clothe Lucy with dignity. Lucy remembers the relief of no longer walking in tattered clothes. It was a sign of hope.
Around this time, Lucy was enrolled in kindergarten at MOHI’s Area 2 Center. She studied there until fifth grade, when her mother made a difficult but hopeful decision to transfer her to MOHI’s boarding school at Joska. She believed the supportive environment, mentorship, and structure would help Lucy heal and grow.
A Fresh Start at Joska
At Joska, Lucy received the encouragement and care she needed to rebuild her confidence.
“I was shy and felt unworthy because life’s hurdles had pushed me to the edge. I had this illusion that nothing good would come out of me, so I cared less about my studies and future,” Lucy says.
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" I was shy and felt unworthy because life's hurdles had pushed me to the edge. I had this illusion that nothing good would come out of me, so I cared less about my studies and future. |
Her mother continued to speak truth and hope into her life.
“My mother believed in me more than I did. She used to tell me that I was destined for greatness because I was born at a very difficult time, when Kenya was going through the post-election violence in 2007. Like I do, she still believes that if God allowed me to survive, he truly has a great purpose for me,” Lucy testifies.
Slowly, Lucy began to believe this too.
Discovering Her Talents and Her Voice
In Grade 6, Lucy joined the basketball team after encouragement from her cousin. At first, she struggled, but with persistence and a determined spirit, she improved dramatically. Her talent led to leadership roles as the school basketball captain and the deputy games captain. She hopes to play professionally one day and dreams of becoming one of the best players in the WNBA.
“I owe my cousin, mother and MOHI staff a lot due to the encouragement they always give me.”
But basketball was not her only discovery.
Lucy found that she was also gifted in fashion design and writing. What began as journaling motivational quotes and prayers grew into a steady source of inspiration. When she is not studying, she can often be found sketching fashion designs or writing words that strengthen her faith.
One quote that has encouraged her recently is, “Dirty water never stops a plant from growing.” It reminds her that she can continue to flourish even in difficult circumstances.
Growing in Leadership, Academics, and Faith
As Lucy’s confidence grew, so did her leadership. She now serves as a class mentor and the Chemistry class representative, encouraging classmates who feel discouraged. She understands what that feels like.
Her academics improved significantly. After briefly attending a high school outside MOHI, she immediately asked to return. She missed MOHI deeply. She missed the culture, the mentorship, and the environment where her gifts and faith were nurtured.
Her love for God also grew. Lucy gave her life to Christ in Grade 7, was baptized, and now serves as the lead usher at her school church.
“As a servant leader, you have to be an example to others. It is a Christian value that I have earned and learned through my experience, and I am proud of it.”
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" As a servant leader, you have to be an example to others. |
Looking Toward a Bright Future
Lucy’s life is a testimony to God’s faithfulness and to the power of holistic ministry. Through education, mentorship, spiritual support, and a caring community, she has discovered the gifts God placed inside her.
She hopes to pursue university studies and a career that glorifies God by serving others with her creativity, leadership, and compassion.
Lucy is a treasure to her family and to the MOHI community. We are grateful for the transformation we see in her life and excited for all that God has yet to unfold.
Join Us in Helping More Students Like Lucy Thrive
Stories like Lucy’s are made possible through the generosity of people like you who support holistic ministry, helping children and families experience education, empowerment, mentorship, discipleship, and the love of Christ.
If you sponsor a child, we invite you to take a moment today to pray for them or send them a note of encouragement. Your presence in their life makes a difference.
If you would like to walk alongside a student like Lucy as they discover their God-given potential, we invite you to learn more about how you can get involved through child sponsorship.
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