Mary’s inspiring journey of resilience

Mary, a 17-year-old mother from Mathare, had once thought that her dreams of completing her education were lost forever. After dropping out of primary school, she struggled with motherhood and the challenges that came with it. Her days were filled with worry about her baby, and her nights with the painful thought that her education was slipping further away with each passing day. But everything changed when the Linda Binti project extended a helping hand.

“I never thought I’d go back to school,” Mary shares. “When I found out I was pregnant, I felt like all my dreams vanished. I didn’t know where to turn. But when Linda Binti reached out to me, it felt like someone was giving me a chance to start again.”

At the time, Mary was stuck in a cycle of trying to balance taking care of her baby with the overwhelming feeling of missing out on an education. With the project’s support, Mary was enrolled at TJ Kajwang Secondary School.

Today, she is in her third year of secondary education, and her transformation is nothing short of inspiring. Mary is a leader within her school’s Linda Binti club, where she speaks openly about her journey and the importance of education for young mothers.

“I want other young girls to know that they are not alone,” Mary says, her eyes filled with determination. “If I can do it, they can too.”

Mary’s mother has become a pillar of strength throughout this journey. She was trained by the project to understand how best to support Mary as she juggled her role as a student and a mother.

“I remember when Mary came home and told me she wanted to go back to school,” says her mother. “At first, I didn’t know how we would manage. But when Linda Binti explained how they would help with day care and guide us, I felt a sense of relief. I knew we could do this together.”

Mary’s baby now attends a day care paid by Linda Binti during school hours, which has been a game-changer for Mary’s ability to focus on her studies.

“My baby is safe and cared for, and I can concentrate on school,” she says with a soft smile, her eyes lighting up as she thinks about the stability the project has provided.

Mary’s teacher, Ms. Yvonne Otieno, has also seen a remarkable change in her. “Mary is a bright student. She’s come a long way, not just academically but emotionally. Her confidence has grown, and her passion for learning is inspiring,” Ms. Otieno shares proudly. “She actively participates in class and in the Linda Binti club. Her story has motivated other students, especially young mothers, to believe in themselves.”

Mary has made progress beyond what she thought possible. “I know I’m not there yet, but I’m working hard,” she says, her voice steady. “I want to finish school, get a job, and make a better life for my baby. I want to prove that I can do it.”