Safety, Shelter & Food - Vulnerable Kids in Kibera

“A journey that started in my early years had come to another level. I had finally completed my high school studies and taken final exams. Waiting for the results is not the best part of any Form Four leaver because you end up with butterflies in your tummy,” says Dorcas.

Along with her two sisters, Dorcas came to St. Vincent’s Rescue Center when she was 5 years old after having lost her mother. Even as a child, Dorcas loved school and demonstrated an impressive work ethic. Today, Dorcas’ hard work in school has paid off. She scored the amount of points needed to attain entry into one of Kenya’s higher learning institutions, which for most is just a pipe dream. Earlier this year, Dorcas was admitted into The Catholic University of Eastern Africa where she chose to pursue her Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Chemistry.

Dorcas describes her first day at university as ‘amazing’ in many ways. She was anxious but excited as she embarked on her journey to her new campus, wondering what campus life would be like and bubbling with ideas about her career path. 

“Growing up, we have heard so many stories about campus life. Now this is me in the same spot,” says Dorcas.

Now in her second semester, Dorcas talks about her new experience with pride and appreciation. It is clear her thirst for education is strong. Dorcas says, “I like that our lecturers are able to share their personal numbers with us students and we keep comparing notes on matters pertaining to education."

Dorcas is enjoying her coursework and interacting with professors. She has joined the school’s table tennis club and the Young Christian Society where she has been able to make friends and participate in community service. Dorcas says:

"Campus life is teaching me to be more independent and explore as much as possible. I can comfortably stand firm and confess that this is a dream come true!”