Elliot – a postgraduate student in the UK

My name is Elliot, I joined the Kisiizi Hospital Orphan project (UK Project) in the early 2000s at a time when I had lost my parent and life seemed incredibly daunting, and the idea of completing education felt like an impossible dream. Being the second born amongst a family of four children, an opportunity to be supported by the Kisiizi orphan project without the fear of being chased from class because of school fees motivated me to not only study hard but also excel in all levels as this would also inspire my other siblings.

The unwavering support of the Kisiizi orphan project helped me to successfully complete both primary, secondary levels and a certificate course training in Nursing. After graduating as the best student with a Certificate in Nursing, I started working with Kisiizi Hospital, which gave me an opportunity to earn and support my siblings at that stage.

After two years of experience working as a nurse, I applied through the hospital to [Kisiizi Partners] to study for a Diploma in Nursing. This gave me an opportunity to learn more skills to help me in my nursing practice. From this invaluable training, I went on and completed a degree in Nursing science, a Masters and I’m currently doing a PhD in cardiovascular research in Liverpool.

The commitment of [the Kiisizi Partners Child Sponsorship] project to making a huge difference in the lives of orphaned and other vulnerable children like me is truly remarkable, and I am eternally grateful for the opportunities it opened for me, doors that I never thought possible and shaping me into the person I am today.

If I wasn’t enrolled on the scheme it is likely that I would not have had the opportunity to receive necessary resources (school fees, scholastic materials, uniforms), guidance and support to develop my abilities and knowledge through attending school. 

More so, it is likely I would not exist in the same capacity or possess the knowledge and capabilities that I have today and this would have also had an impact on my siblings whom I have been supporting to attain education.

Today, I continue to support a brother who is training to be a diploma nurse and our youngest sister who recently graduated as a medical doctor as well as a primary chap who recently lost his dad from a fatal accident who was very close to me. For myself, I am committed to paying forward your kindness by making a positive impact in the lives of others and contributing to the betterment of society.