By Silas Otieno

Young people thrive when they are guided, supported, and shown the path to success. Equipping them with clear direction and practical steps empowers them to transform dreams into reality.

For students at Kamburu High School in Kiambu County, February 7, was a transformative day. The Mastercard Foundation Scholar Mentors Program at USIU-Africa, led by Miss Wambui Cheche, engaged students in a dynamic session covering key aspects of academic and personal achievement. The session’s topics ranged from effective study habits and time management to self-awareness, choosing the right friends, and overcoming peer pressure.

Ndung’u Isaac, a second year Pharmacy student set the stage by emphasizing the importance of disciplined study habits, encouraging the students to embrace techniques like active reading, strategic note-taking, and setting realistic academic goals.

Building on the discussion, Rose Kamande, a third-year International Business Administration student, led an engaging session on time management. By highlighting the power of time management, she urged the students to create daily schedules, prioritize tasks, and break assignments into manageable segments. Her tips on minimizing distractions and balancing academic responsibilities with personal interests resonated with the audience, equipping the students with strategies to make the most of every day.

The session took on a personal tone as mentors shared their journeys with the students. Henry Musau Muli, a second-year pursing a degree in Accounting, shared his pursuit of education. “I grew up knowing that education was my only way out. Nevertheless, life had its obstacles. Determined to secure the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship, I applied three times. Each rejection was difficult, yet giving up was never an option. On my third attempt, I received the acceptance letter—a moment that transformed my life. It taught me that failure is not the end but just a test of how badly you want something. If you fall, stand up. If a door closes, knock again. Your persistence will define your future,” he reflected.

Emmanuel Mateso, a Mastercard Foundation Scholar from the Democratic Republic of Congo and a first-year Applied Computer Technology student, spoke about the value of excellence in opening doors of opportunity. "I did not leave home, DRC to be a refugee by choice. I left because I had to. I watched my country torn apart, families displaced, and children forced to abandon their dreams. Nevertheless, my hard work and academic excellence never left me. From my second year of high school, I never paid a single cent for school fees—not because my family was wealthy, but because of dedication. My academic excellence attracted organizations willing to support top students. Today, I stand here not as a victim, but as someone determined to be part of the solution. No matter where you come from or what challenges you face, remember, your excellence will always open doors,” he said.

The Kamburu High School principal, Mr. Kariuki expressed his gratitude for the mentorship session, urging students to apply the lessons learned.

"This is a rare opportunity—having young mentors who have walked the same path as you, who understand your struggles, and who are willing to guide you. Success is not just a dream; it is built on the habits you develop today. Make these lessons useful, remain disciplined and never let challenges define your destiny. The world is waiting for the best version of you,” he said.

Towards the end, the students left inspired, and equipped with actionable strategies to enhance their academic performance, and make informed life decisions. As one student remarked, “Hearing these stories makes me realize that I have no excuse. If they made it through their struggles, so can I.”