My name is Kelly Joy Makena, and I am a student at Pioneer International University. I am pursuing a Bachelor of Education in Arts, with a focus on English literature. Teaching has always been a passion of mine because as a teacher, you have the opportunity to celebrate the success of your students. I see teaching as an art of molding, where educators have the power to positively or negatively impact a child’s life. I am drawn to the idea of making a positive impact on people’s lives and helping them achieve their full potential. I am particularly interested in English literature because I am fascinated by the power of words and their influence on our lives. Reading allows us to inhabit a thousand different lives, while those who do not read are confined to their own. It is this ability of literature to broaden our perspectives and deepen our understanding of humanity that fuels my passion to become an English literature teacher.
Teaching literature gives me the chance to share this passion and help others develop a deeper appreciation for it. It’s incredibly rewarding to see students grow more confident in their reading and writing, and to watch them explore different genres, styles, and periods of literature. By guiding them through these rich narratives, I hope to inspire empathy, critical thinking, and a lifelong love for the written word.
What fascinates me most about teaching is the opportunity to inspire and mentor students as they discover the beauty and complexity of language. I believe that literature has the power to transform and impact lives, and I am committed to helping my students unlock that potential. Whether it is analyzing the works of great authors, exploring different cultures and perspectives, or simply encouraging students to find their own unique voice. I am constantly inspired by the creativity and curiosity which my students will gain.
Growing up under the care of a single mother was challenging, as my siblings and I depended entirely on her. As the sole breadwinner, she faced numerous hardships raising us. However, during our most trying times, Zizi Afrique Foundation provided crucial support that made a significant difference in our lives.
I was initially taken aback when I received the news about the Tenda Wema Scholarship through my headteacher, Mrs. Mutugi. I was selected as a scholar because of my strong performance in the KCPE exams, and they have been sponsoring my education since Form One. Thanks to Tenda Wema, I can now manage my living expenses and help alleviate the financial burden on my mother. P
Tenda Wema has been a reliable pillar of support during unexpected moments, particularly by covering my school fees, which was a major challenge for both me and my mother. Now, I can pursue my education like any other student without interruptions. This support has not only boosted my confidence but also empowered me to contribute positively to my family and society. Previously, I often faced the distressing situation of being sent home from school due to unpaid fees, causing me to fall behind in my studies and struggle to catch up with my classmates. Thanks to Zizi Afrique foundation I can now be at par with my classmates.
As a Tenda Wema scholar, I have gained valuable life skills, including communication, kindness, socialization, critical thinking, and finding role models to emulate. I am deeply grateful to Tenda Wema for motivating primary school pupils, writing appreciation letters, and educating fellow students on the importance of education.
My heartfelt gratitude to Tenda Wema extends beyond financial support; they inspire primary school pupils, spread positivity through gratitude letters, and enlighten students about the value of education. As advice to fellow students seeking support from donors like Tenda Wema: never lose hope, study diligently, prioritize faith, set ambitious goals, seize every opportunity, understand your purpose in school, and remember, lighting another candle doesn’t diminish your own light.
