St Jude’s largest alumni gathering was recently hosted at Smith Secondary Campus. More than 700 secondary students gathered to greet their predecessors, who are currently studying at university, working in their desired fields, or completing Beyond St Jude’s Community Service Year. Graduates were thrilled to reconnect with their former classmates, and equally honoured to share some wise words with younger students. Many of them are now only months away from taking their final steps outside St Jude’s gates and embarking on the future they have worked so hard to create.
“It was a wonderful day. We were not aware just how special it would be. An inerasable moment for students, graduates and teachers,” Glory, a Form 6 student, shared.
“It was fun hearing from graduates about their experience at universities. Various representatives gave inspiring talks to the whole audience, then we moved into smaller groups and had the chance to speak to people studying in fields that are of interest to us,” she added.
The event was especially inspiring for 26 new Form 5 students, who joined St Jude's from under-resourced government schools around northern Tanzania. For the first time, their eyes have been opened to future prospects.
Haruni, a graduate from 2016, offered a passionate call to action, rousing the gathered students and igniting the flame of school pride.
“Young sisters and brothers, let us study hard. Hard work is a bridge to a successful journey. We should always make sure that we never regret anything in the future. Tanzania’s development lies within the hands of St Jude’s students. Make sure the smile on your face never fades and let’s all meet on the mountain peak of success,” Haruni said.
Haruni studies Agribusiness and Agricultural Economics in Tanzania, as well as working part-time to gain experience.
Daudi, from the Class of 2015, spoke about the value of undertaking community service and nurturing one’s passions. After completing his Community Service Year, Daudi was granted a scholarship through Beyond St Jude's Tertiary program, which has enabled him to pursue tertiary education in Uganda.
After official proceedings, graduates and students enjoyed friendly rivalry on the football field and basketball court, showcasing wonderful teamwork and skill!
Angela, St Jude’s Deputy Director, oversees the Beyond St Jude’s program and, with the Beyond St Jude’s team, has nurtured the growth of our alumni since our first graduates emerged in 2015.
“To see the program growing is exceptional. And the continued school spirit these young leaders wish to express is phenomenal. They really are reaping the rewards of their hard work and have taken best advantage of opportunities they received at St Jude’s.”
Would you like to give a Tanzanian student the opportunity of a lifetime? Sponsor an academic scholarship for one of our new Form 5 students and pave the path to a bright future.
We spoke to the students involved in one of our most successful fundraising campaigns. Read about the impact it had on them.
Student 1: Lina
Grade: Form 6
Career Ambition: Human Rights Leader
1. What would you like to say to the Appeal donors?
Lina: Thank you! They should keep up with the same spirit. One thing they should keep in mind is that they are investing in us and in the future they will see how the students they support will change the world. St Jude’s isn’t a small thing. It’s unique and the time will come when they will see real doctors, lawyers, scientists and others who can help our country.
Student 2: Theresia
Grade: Standard 6
Career Ambition: Teacher
2. How did it feel to be on camera?
Theresia: I felt grateful because I knew that I was doing it in order for us to get more supporters for all St Jude’s students. I felt good and trust myself that I can talk in front of people without regarding who the message reaches.
3. How do you feel when you know many people want to support your school?
Theresia: I am excited because there are many more Tanzanian children who need help.
Lina: I feel very good since I know that many students who come from poor economic conditions are going to be supported. Many dreams are going to be achieved and most of all, the school is going to get more graduates who will help the school in the future. I also feel many people trust and believe in us. It encourages me to study harder so I cannot let down people who trust and believe in my abilities.
Student 3: Amani
Graduating Class: 2016
Career Ambition: Medicine
Amani graduated with the Class of 2016. A key protagonist in our alumni program, he is a driven leader who leaves a positive impression on everyone he encounters.
It is little wonder he was our Marketing team’s first choice to be one of the faces of the ‘helping hand’ campaign video. His success as a St Jude’s graduate is a heartwarming tale of fighting poverty through education.
In 2005, Amani was selected for a St Jude’s primary scholarship — he was 10 years old. Little did he know how much he would accomplish in the next 13 years!
Amani is now a university student at Africa University in Zimbabwe. He received a scholarship through St Jude’s partnership with the MasterCard Foundation and African Leadership Academy.
“I could never have dreamed of going to university before I came to St Jude’s. I was just focused on getting to secondary school. Then I realised on the day of Form 6 Graduation that my dream was coming true,” Amani said.
Theresia, Lina and Amani, as the faces of our campaign, symbolise the success of St Jude’s. We can expect great things from these young people in years to come!
