Joy is what happens when we allow ourselves to be grateful for what we have, rather than focusing on what we do not.
‘Whenever I think about my CITW scholarship,’ notes Zimbabwean medical student Alumbwe, ‘my heart overflows with gratitude and enthusiasm. When I look back at my journey, I see transformation – a movement from obscurity to purpose, from uncertainty to vision. What once seemed impossible has become my lived reality.’
He continues his inspirational journey below.
First and foremost, I would like to express my deepest appreciation to the CITW scholarship programme; it has not only supported my education but has transformed my life. It lifted me from a place of financial struggle and emotional hardship and gave me dignity, confidence, and hope. It did not simply fund my education – it restored belief in myself.
I come from a background where finances were a constant challenge. I grew up without my parents, and life was often difficult. There were moments when the future seemed uncertain and overwhelming. Yet through CITW, I experienced love, care, encouragement, and consistent support. That support became the foundation upon which I built my academic and personal growth.
I was born on the 14th of December 2004. My academic journey began in 2011 at St Mary’s Primary School. Like any child, my early school days were filled with excitement, new friends and games. At that stage, learning still felt easy and enjoyable. We were taught how to write our names, read simple syllables, and fill in basic exercises. However, as I progressed through the grades, academic pressure gradually increased. Assessments became more serious, and I had to adjust from a playful mindset to a disciplined one.
As I continued, my teachers noticed my academic potential. I consistently performed well in my end-of-term examinations, often scoring good results. At home, my academic achievements were celebrated simply, but in meaningful ways. Sometimes my family would prepare a special meal, even slaughtering a hen, to motivate me further. Those small celebrations meant the world to me. They strengthened my determination to keep excelling.
Beyond academics, my teachers also saw leadership qualities in me. Initially, they appointed me as a group leader because I was quiet and disciplined, though I often hesitated due to lack of confidence. They were patient with me. Later, I was elected class monitor, and this time I accepted the responsibility. I learned how to be a leader, listen carefully, and maintain order. One day in 2015, when I was in Grade 5, I was unexpectedly called to the headmistress’ office and informed that I had been enrolled in the Grand Circle Foundation Scholarship programme, supported and facilitated by Children in the Wilderness (CITW). That moment changed my life.
From then on, school fees and necessities were fully covered. The financial burden was lifted from my aunt’s shoulders, and I could focus entirely on my education. In Grade 6, I was appointed Senior Prefect. Leading older students was not always easy, but it taught me resilience. I also joined clubs to enhance my growth. I joined the soccer club because I love sports and dreamed of becoming a soccer player. Unfortunately, due to issues with my birth certificate, I could not pursue that dream further, which discouraged me.
However, I also joined the CITW Eco-Club, which deepened my understanding of environmental science and improved my academic performance. Although I missed an Eco-Camp due to balancing sports and academics, I learned that every experience shapes us for a reason.
By Grade 7, I was confidently addressing the entire school during assemblies. The fear that once held me back gradually disappeared. Leadership built my confidence step by step. My dream to attend boarding school came true when I was admitted to Marist Brothers High School for both O Level and A Level studies. The scholarship continued to support me fully, covering fees, uniforms, groceries, and even food hampers during the COVID-19 pandemic. I never lacked basic needs. In 2021, I completed my O Levels with 9 subjects: 1 A, 3 Bs, and 5 Cs.
On the 12th of October 2022, during my A Level studies, I was appointed Head Boy. Wearing the cream blazer symbolised more than what simply meets the eye, it represented growth. Many did not expect me to become Head Boy, but the scholarship had not only raised a student; it had shaped a leader. I worked to improve discipline and punctuality in the school and became a role model to many students. However, leadership came with challenges. Some prefects were demoted, creating emotional strain and leadership gaps. Balancing academics and administrative responsibilities became difficult. The stress affected my mental health. As exams approached, I experienced memory loss and mental fatigue. My mind felt blank during crucial moments. I eventually scored 4 points in my A-Level results.
Leadership, I have learned, is nurtured through opportunity and support. Through this journey, I have travelled to places I had never imagined and met diverse people who broadened my understanding of the world. I have learned that no burden is too heavy if one refuses to quit.
That period was one of the darkest in my life. I felt like a failure. I believed my dreams had ended. Depression clouded my thinking, and I questioned my worth and future. But in the midst of that despair, one powerful question changed everything: ‘What do you want to do?’ My long-held passion to become a doctor resurfaced strongly. CITW once again restored my hope. They reminded me that circumstances do not determine destiny.
Today, I am studying Medicine and Surgery at Eden University in Lusaka, Zambia, having begun in 2024.The scholarship continues to support my tuition, accommodation, study permit, and meals. Without that support, pursuing medicine would not have been possible, especially after my A Level results. Instead of allowing my setback to define me, I was encouraged to rise again. I am currently progressing steadily in my programme, and expect to complete my studies in 2029. As I move closer to my goal, my vision becomes clearer. I aspire to build hospitals with advanced medical facilities within my country so that people do not have to seek expensive treatment abroad. I dream of affordable and accessible healthcare for all. My motto is ‘Prevention is better than cure’. I want to not only treat illness but also promote awareness and early intervention.
I truly believe I am a living testimony that one can rise from shame to purpose, from despair to destiny. Words cannot fully express my gratitude to my sponsors. Their investment in my life has created lasting impact, not only for me but for the many lives I will serve in the future.
With sincere appreciation, Alumbwe Mudimba
