With the support of the Macheo Achievement Program, Rachael Wanjohi successfully navigated the financial aid process, securing an 80% scholarship from Strathmore. The remaining 20% was covered by African Digna, a partner of the Community Service Centre. What once felt like an insurmountable challenge became a stepping stone to success, proving that with the right support, ambition knows no limits.

The story of Rachael, a soon-to-be graduate from Strathmore University, is one of perseverance, passion, and the life-changing impact of scholarships. From her humble beginnings to finding her place in the Communication field, Rachel’s journey highlights the power of support, mentorship, and financial aid. At the heart of her story is the scholarship that made her dreams possible and continues to inspire her as she approaches graduation.

“My name is Rachael Wanjohi, but my friends call me Ray,” she begins, with a warm smile. “I’m currently completing my Bachelor of Arts in Communication at Strathmore University.

Her journey didn’t begin at Strathmore—it began back in 2016, when she was a Form 2 student at Kibera Girls Soccer Academy. “That’s when I first joined the Macheo program, and let me tell you, that was a game-changer for me. I didn’t know at the time, but Macheo set me up for something bigger.”

It was the encouragement of mentors like Ruben and Jeff, Strathmore alumni, that gave her the confidence to redirect. “They gave me a listening ear. They didn’t tell me what to do, but they gave me the space to figure it out. After talking with them, I realized that Communication was my calling. I’ve always been into acting and storytelling since I was a kid. I’d lead songs at Sunday school, act in school plays, and even report news in high school. It was always in me.”

But despite her passion for Communication, there was a huge hurdle she had to overcome—financial constraints.

Rachael’s voice softens as she recounts the moment she found out she’d received the scholarship. “It felt like a dream. When I called my family back at home, they didn’t even know what Strathmore was, but they were so happy for me. My mentor, Sandra Ngaire, took me out for coffee and gave me the advice I needed. She even bought me clothes for my new academic life. It was a moment I’ll never forget.”

However, the road was far from smooth. In her second year, during the COVI-19 period , Rachael hit a major setback. “I failed three units, and that could have cost me my scholarship. I thought that was it. I thought I had failed everyone—my family, my mentors, myself. I cried. It felt like I had ruined everything.” Her voice falters slightly as she remembers the difficult time.

But her story didn’t end there. “I reached out to the financial aid office, and they gave me a second chance. ‘Take a break, take the three units you’re struggling with, and come back to us later. We’ll keep paying your fees but you have to work hard.” Lucy, the Financial Aid Office Manager told her.

Her voice grows strong and determined as she continues. “It was the support I received during that time that gave me the strength to continue. I realized I wasn’t alone on this journey. The scholarship wasn’t just financial support—it was a reminder that people believed in me, even when I didn’t believe in myself.”

Now, as she nears graduation, Rachael looks back on the lessons she’s learned and the support she’s received. “I can’t even put into words what Strathmore is meant to me. It’s not just about academics here. It’s about humanity. Even when you fail, Strathmore doesn’t give up on you. They see your potential, and they’re with you every step of the way.”

Rachael’s work has already had a significant impact, as she focuses on Communication for Development and Public Relations. “Since my second year, I knew I wanted to focus on communication for social change. I had the opportunity to work on projects that educated girls in Kibera about teenage pregnancies and self-awareness. Now, I’m mentoring three students in the Macheo Achievement Program and it feels so rewarding.”

She continues, speaking with passion about the power of storytelling. “Through my work in the alumni office and with Strathmore Communications, I’ve seen how strategic communication can really make a difference. It’s not just about telling stories, it’s about using those stories to inspire and create change. That’s what I want to do with my life.”

Initiatives like the VC Run And it’s this drive to make a difference that has fueled Rachael’s involvement with. “The VC Run has been such a vital part of so many students’ journeys,” she says. “I’ve seen it firsthand—how a simple event can provide life-changing scholarships and make dreams come true.

If it weren’t for events like these, many students would never get the chance to pursue their education.”
Rachael’s eyes brighten as she speaks about the importance of the VC Run. “This isn’t just about running or walking, it’s about making a tangible impact. Every single contribution matters. It’s not just about one person—it’s about helping hundreds of students achieve their dreams, just like I did.”

She ends with a heartfelt message to those considering joining the VC Run. “Please, don’t hesitate. Register and participate. Whether you’re running or walking, every little bit helps. Let’s make more dreams come true. Let’s show the world that together, we can create opportunities for those who need it most.”

Article written by Teresa Nekesa