Picture this: It’s the start of your second semester at university. You’ve got notebooks full of ambitious plans and a heart full of hope, but your bank account tells a different story. The worry over tuition, textbooks, and living expenses weighs heavily on your mind. You begin to question if your dreams are realistic or just too far out of reach.
This was the reality for Elizabeth Wangui, a second-year Bachelor of Arts in International Studies student at Strathmore University. Raised by a single parent facing significant financial hardship, Elizabeth’s journey has been anything but straightforward. For her, the idea of studying at a prestigious institution felt like a distant dream, one she dared not speak aloud.
Then came the scholarship, a lifeline that transformed her world. In one life-changing moment, the crushing worry over fees and financial barriers melted away, replaced by a renewed sense of purpose and possibility. It’s the kind of opportunity that not only opens doors but also changes the trajectory of an entire life.
Her journey took a turning point when her mother’s friend, a staff member at Strathmore, introduced her to the university’s scholarship opportunities. After completing her first semester, Elizabeth applied. To her amazement, she was awarded the scholarship, an opportunity that lifted an enormous weight off her family’s shoulders. “It’s been life-changing,” she reflects. “I didn’t think I’d ever access quality education like this. The scholarship has opened doors I never thought possible.”
The scholarship Elizabeth received is partially funded through community-driven initiatives like Strathmore’s annual Vice Chancellor’s Run, a vibrant event where students, staff, alumni, and friends of the university come together to raise funds for financial aid for the students in need. Knowing that her education is powered by such collective generosity fills her with deep gratitude. “Seeing people run to support students like me is incredible,” she says. “Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a difference.”
This year, she plans to run herself, rallying her friends to join in the effort. It’s her way of giving back, to pay forward the gift she was once given. With the financial pressure eased, Elizabeth has thrown herself into her studies and university life with newfound vigor and focus. “I’ve become more disciplined because I know this opportunity depends on my performance,” she explains.
But, her growth has gone beyond academics. Elizabeth proudly describes herself as a “go-getter” now, someone who seeks out opportunities, tackles challenges, and steps out of her comfort zone.
In her free time, she enjoys a mix of fun and focus from skating, cooking, to archery. She’s an active member of the University’s Archery Club, a sport she calls meditative and empowering. “When I play, my mind focuses completely. I haven’t hit a bullseye yet, but I’m getting closer!” she says.
Her heart for service runs deep. She dreams of mentoring students who face financial challenges, just as she once did. “I wouldn’t want anyone else to struggle the way I did,” she says. “I want to help, especially financially, because I know what it means to receive that support.” She’s already taking steps in that direction. As part of the university’s Service-Based Learning (SBL) program, a 225-hour community service internship, Elizabeth is volunteering at Hope House Children’s Home, making a tangible difference in young lives. She also plans to join the University’s Community Outreach Programme(COP) under the Community Service Centre Office, checking off a meaningful item from her bucket list.
To the donors, runners, and quiet supporters behind her scholarship, she offers a heartfelt message saying, “You’re not just giving money, you’re changing lives. What you’ve done for me has had an impact far beyond what you might see. Thank you for believing in students like me.”
Her story is more than a tale of scholarship success, it’s a powerful reminder of what can happen when opportunity meets potential. Through resilience, gratitude, and a drive to give back, she’s lighting the way for others.
Join the Movement. Be part of the impact. Whether you walk, jog, or sprint, your participation in the VC’s Run helps fund scholarships for deserving students like Elizabeth. Every step you take brings someone closer to their dreams.
Register today, rally your friends, and help transform lives, one stride at a time!
Registration Link: https://donations.strathmore.edu/vcrun
Article Written by Teresa Nekesa
