Vanessa honoured with Vice Chancellor’s award during graduation

Not many students get the chance to study alongside peers from across the globe. Fewer still manage to stand out among them. But Vanessa, an alum of The School of St Jude, did just that, earning the Vice Chancellor’s Award during her graduation at Abulkhalry University in Malaysia, one of the university’s highest honours.

This award recognises students who excel not only academically, but also in leadership, community service, and extracurricular activities. Out of thousands of students from different countries, Vanessa was recognised as the best in her faculty. For Vanessa, the award proved that boundaries don’t limit brilliance, and that Tanzania can proudly stand on the global stage

Her story began at The School of St Jude, where she was taught that education is about more than passing exams; it’s about shaping leaders who serve others. That belief took root early. During her Community Service Year, Vanessa taught in government schools, mentoring students and seeing firsthand how education changes lives.

In 2022, Vanessa received a scholarship to study in Malaysia. She embraced the opportunity, engaging in campus life, taking on leadership roles, and championing initiatives that supported her peers.

Vanessa was awarded the Vice Chancellor’s Award in recognition of her outstanding academic excellence, strong leadership, and dedicated community service. Building on the foundation laid at St Jude’s, she consistently excelled in her studies, took on roles that empowered her peers and demonstrated a deep commitment to service - organising study groups, mentoring others, and contributing thoughtfully to discussions on sustainable economic growth.

Vanessa’s vision doesn’t stop with personal success. She dreams of one day becoming Tanzania’s Minister of Finance, driving economic policies that can uplift communities and create opportunities for all.

“I believe in economic progress through the right policies. Set big goals and work hard success doesn’t come by luck but through dedication and commitment. The more you give, the more you grow. And never stop learning, because knowledge unlocks doors you never imagined,” says Vanessa.

Her achievement is not only hers; it is an inspiration for Tanzania, Africa, and beyond. Because when a young Tanzanian woman can step onto the world stage and be named the best, it proves that dreams, no matter how bold, are possible.