Muthina’s #JitegemeeDream

In 2017, we launched our #JitegemeeDream series, an online visual storytelling initiative that we are continuing and expanding in 2018. Working with Zimbabwean photojournalist, Fungai Tichawangana, our high school students took photos, videos, and wrote stories about their lives and their dreams for a brighter future. Here is Muthina’s story:

“My name is Muthina. My #JitegemeeDream is to become a doctor.

I am 14 years old and am in Form One at St. Lawrence Girls’ School. My favorite subject is Chemistry. Other people find it hard, but I like it very much.

I have three brothers and I am the second born. Our home is in Machakos. Although my parents work hard, they do not have enough to support the four of us. They do not have enough to pay our school fees. They do not have enough money to buy school uniforms for us, books to read, or textbooks for school.

There were times, in the past, when we’d go to bed without eating anything. I found it difficult to continue with education at my school because I was often very hungry.

Then one day, someone told my mum about Jitegemee Children’s Program.

March 3, 2015.

I still remember that day. I was in Class 7. It was my first day at Jitegemee.

I was so nervous and afraid. Other children would greet me and I’d start crying. In time, I learnt how to socialize with the friends I made at Jitegemee.

Jitegemee gave me support for my education. They paid my school fees for primary and now for high school. They also gave me books to read. They also give me a meal every day.

I am so very grateful for Jitegemee for the support and good training they continue to give me.

If you would like to support Muthina and her friends continue to receive a quality education, please consider donating to our online fundraiser. Please check back often to hear Muthina’s friends’ Jitegemee Dreams.