In our community, we strive to support individuals facing educational challenges and help them achieve their full potential. One of our most inspiring success stories is that of Patuma Juma, a young girl aged 16 from Mgawo village Mangochi whose journey reflects resilience, support, and the power of a second chance.
In our community, we strive to support individuals facing educational challenges and help them achieve their full potential. One of our most inspiring success stories is that of Patuma Juma, a young girl aged 16 from Mgawo village Mangochi whose journey reflects resilience, support, and the power of a second chance.
Patuma Juma a bright and passionate student, faced significant obstacles ranging from financial to various roles at home which interrupted her studies.
“I would go to school 3 days per week because the other days I would join my mother to go do piece works so that we earn money for food” Juma said.
“My performance in class was not good and I would lack other scholastic materials that’s when I thought of just dropping out”
Recognizing Patuma’s young age and the barriers she faced, Mother Support group chair Usinje Dyton, who was trained by NACC stepped in by providing counselling and mentorship through girls corner clubs. Usinje encouraged Patuma to go back to school as she stated:
“I tell my girls about how important education is, their living standards are much better when they are educated”
She said.
“Our plan as Mother support group is to reach out to more girls and encourage them to get educated and pursue their dreams” She added
With the support from girl’s corner, Patuma decided to go back to school and attend classes every school day.
Patuma’s return to school marked the beginning of a remarkable turnaround. She not only caught up with her peers but also excelled academically
Lucia Wyson (Mother to Patuma) said Patuma’s performance improved because she went to school everyday and no longer taking her to go do piece works during school days.
She became the highest in tests that were done at school and she has passed her PSLCE exams and has been selected to Mangochi Secondary School.
“I am a proud mother that she has been selected to a district secondary school and I want her to finish her studies so that maybe our living standards will be good and we can stop relying on piece work” Said Wyson.
Her experience has inspired others in similar situations. We are incredibly proud of her achievements and look forward to seeing all that she will accomplish in the future as she dreams of become a Nurse.