Blog
Jess with Efrance and Provia in Uganda
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March 1, 2019
From Racheal:
Dear supporters,
It's really great to write to you again at this time of the year to inform you that I have finally completed my journey through high school. I wouldn't have managed to achieve all of this without you because you have walked by me in this journey to the end. I thank you for not giving up on me. And for that I am truly humbled and super grateful. If I was to write a book to let you know how grateful and ecstatic I am to have you, it would not have an end. You mean a lot to me.
My final exams were in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, General Paper and Computer Science. These are my scores:
Biology: E (The equivalent of a “C” in the US)
Chemistry: E
Mathematics: D (The equivalent of a “C+” in the US)
General Paper: 4 (pass with distinction)
Computer Science: 1 (fail)
In order to join university, I need two principal passes which I acquired. The different universities will post their test score minimum requirements in a few weeks’ time, so I will be able to choose a course that fits the points I got. I would love to do medicine and surgery or even something connected to psychiatry. But there are very few psychiatry positions available, and I am not yet sure if it is marketable in my country. So I will have to look for a course that is marketable in the country.
Mum is going to pursue a PhD outside the country in Hong Kong in August 2019 at the same time I will be joining University and it requires a lot of money. I am not really sure if the savings she has are going to be enough for the both of us. But I am hoping for the best.
Yours Faithfully,
Achola Racheal.
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August 28, 2018
From Racheal:
Dear supporters,
My final term in high school commences on September 12. I really appreciate the fact that I am what I am because you are. For the past six years, you have moved with me. Sometimes I stop and pinch myself just to make sure I am not dreaming because never had I ever thought of being in the best performing school in the country. But guess what? I am there because of your great effort.
For the last term, I have to work harder than ever because the final exams in November are the most important. They will act as the determinant as to whether I get the chance to do medicine and surgery or even pharmacy. The experience is a bit overwhelming considering the fact that I have to read and plan for many things in the shortest time possible, but I know that I will make it because I am surrounded by positive energy from Mum, Jess and you.
The costs have increased a bit following developments going on the school, and in total it will be $650. Mum sends her regards and as usual, she is very grateful and she says she feels blessed and touched because of your big hearts. She prays that God replaces whatever you give.
WE LOVE YOU.
YOURS FAITHFULLY,
RACHEAL AND HER MOTHER PROVIA
__________________
May 8, 2018
From Racheal:
Hello wonderful people,
I am delighted to inform you that I am doing my final year in high school. The most amazing thing is that you have moved with me throughout this time and have never given up on me. You have journeyed with me and have been a great blessing in my life. I have reached where I am because of your relentless efforts.
I am now in a short holiday before I return to school on May 25. Next term will be a lot of work for me since I will be having exams from time to time, almost on a weekly basis. I will spend time with mum most of the holiday.
You will always be at heart because you are the best thing that’s ever happened to me in my entire life. I am forever grateful for the happiness you bring into my life. Thank you so much.
Mother is also on a long run looking for a PhD scholarship from any good university out of the country. Really pray that she lands on the best.
Lately, it has been raining on a daily basis so it can get really cold down here and that means that mosquitos increase and so do malaria cases. We therefore have to sleep in treated mosquito nets. Otherwise, Uganda is a great place to be and we are all fine. We wish you all the best in your greatest endeavors.
Love always,
Rachael
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January 3, 2018
From Racheal:
School is really great but a little hectic. I am in the middle of a 2 month holiday and planning to teach myself the Kiswahili language. My favorite class is the Biology class. I am learning about Evolution, Reproduction, Coordination and so much more. We have also been dissecting frogs, rats and cockroaches in the Biology practicals. It is a great experience because the first day we were facing these animals, everyone was screaming. We were all scared but we had to get used to them.
I am glad 2018 will be my final year in high school and am working relentlessly because I want to make each and everyone who loves me very proud. School will start on February 2nd. Thank you for the unflinching support.
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August 22, 2017
From Racheal:
Hello! I have a month long holiday before school starts again, but in the meantime since I don't really have a lot of time left in high school yet we cover a wide range of topics, I am dedicating this holiday to pull my grades up and cover some topics on the curriculum especially in Maths.
At school, I participated in athletics during sports day and did really well. My 18th birthday was at school and it was during exams but I had fun on that day, it was memorable with friends. After exams I got some free time to relax and taught my friends how to play chess and also looked more at improving my chess skills. Chess might be a surprise but fact is, I am a talented girl and anything I put my mind to, it suddenly works out. I started playing chess in 2016 and taught myself, am passionate about it. I also taught my friends a few songs and we sung.
The hectic part is that in the midterm I was always fixed with books and notes to take. I really had to work hard to keep up with the speed at which we were doing things. But I’m ready for anything now.
I can't stop appreciating all of you. Mum is more than happy. We are forever grateful to all supporters who make our lives complete. We love, pray and consider you in every step we take. Thank you so much. -Racheal
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May 1, 2017
From Provia:
Hope you are all doing fine. Racheal is back home and she's not bad. Her performance is encouraging. She performed well in Biology with B, Math with a C and Chemistry with D, then ICT (Information Communication and Technology) with an A. Her overall grade is 14/20. I want to keep her busy during this short holiday, taking her for some lessons with teachers from other prominent schools. Thank you for your continued support.
From Racheal:
Hello! It's been a while since we last communicated. I am so happy to be in the best school in the country and working so hard for my last two years. I hardly write these days but I have at least read two novels while at school: one was called Rich Dad Poor Dad and the other was Revelations. Rich Dad Poor Dad is a novel written by one of the world's multimillionaires called Robert. It's about handling the money you earn in whatever you do. Revelations is fiction and is about vampires. Otherwise, I am doing great and would like to appreciate you for your unflinching support. Thank you so much. Love you all.
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February 7, 2017
Test results were recently released from the all-important exam that Racheal had to take to determine the course of her final two years in secondary school. An aggregate grade between 8 and 32 is the highest-performing score. Racheal received an aggregate grade of 23, meaning she could basically choose which school she wanted to attend and they would accept her. Yet, she still was in tears because she felt she could do better. Here are the full results. Note that the ranking is from 1-5, with a 1 being the best score and a 5 being the lowest:
ENG : 3 LIT : 1 CRE : 3 HIS : 3 GEO : 4 MAT : 3 PHY : 5 CHE : 2 BIO : 4 CST : 4
Aggregate score : 23 Overall grade : 1
Racheal's dream right now is to be a psychiatrist or a lawyer, and due to her exceptional literature grade, she is on track to perform well in those professions.
Within a couple days after results were released, Racheal applied to St. Mary's Boarding School, a higher-performing secondary school that is well-regarded in the country. She received an acceptance letter just a few days later.
Provia was so worried about the "exorbitant fee" to attend the school that she wasn't sure Racheal could attend. I asked her how much it would cost. She said it would be the equivalent of $650 per term (about $200 more than the previous school). I said we could take care of that. You wouldn't imagine the scream of joy I heard on the other end of the phone. Racheal later told me they danced through the house after I told them this would be possible.
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December 12, 2016
From Racheal:
Hello supporters,
It has been quite a while since I last sent you a letter but in my heart, I have always put you as first priority. You are the people who make my life possible and trust me, I wouldn’t be living a happy life without your unflinching support. Like I once said, mere phrases cannot express my gratitude to you. With your continuous help, I hope to be the greatest when I am older. Thank you so much.
This year has been a long one with a lot of hard work for me. School was a little hectic. I had to stay up late trying to read for my final papers in O-level. I am hoping for the best when results are out in February. If they as good as I hope, I wish to change schools and that is when we shall know about the school fees for the next two years before I graduate to go to the University and chase my dream careers.
So far, my long holiday has been interesting. One of my family friends invited me on a trip to Kenya and it was a very good experience. I compared my own country to Kenya. I realized that their education system is a bit better and they are more developed.
I am eagerly looking forward to Christmas. It’s a big day for everyone. I am waiting for my mother’s plans and of course I’ll also tell her what I think we should do for Christmas. These days, I am spending a lot of time with my mother and I am really elated. She plans to take me to different places. So far, I am growing happily and stronger.
Thanks go to all those who make my whole life comfortable and to all of you who have loved me and chosen to support me. I am really grateful.
—Racheal
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August 23, 2016
From Provia (with minor edits for clarity):
RE: A BRIEF HISTORY ABOUT MY LIFE AND MY MOTHER
I am called Kesande Provia, the third-born out of five children from my mother’s side. I am from an extended family where by mother was a second wife. It’s so unfortunate that out of the five children, I am the only one still living. The first two children passed on at an infant age, then my immediate follower passed on at the age of 6 years. The last born, according to my mother, she doesn’t know how he died but he left a kid behind.
ABOUT MY MOTHER
She separated with my father when I was about two years old and my brother was one. We were entirely taken care of by my father and were under the harsh treatment of my stepmother.
Dad was a great man. He bathed us, took us to school very early in the morning, and cooked for us like a mother could do to her children. And the most hurtful thing was that we did not know our mother. There were no photographs of her and father did not know her whereabouts.
Me and my brother were in the same class because you couldn’t differentiate who was older or younger. When we were in primary three, my brother developed fever for three days and he passed on. I was left alone with my father and each time I asked him about my mother he told me that they separated and she went to Zaire (a neighboring country) and it’s where she died.
I grew up in misery and hardship, partly because my stepmother kept referring to me as an outcast from a prostitute. But I still thank my late father who was there for me until his last breath in in 1998.
Father died when I was 14 years old. I stopped school because there was no one to take care of me. I became desperate and didn’t know how to manage myself. My family abandoned me and in that same year I got pregnant and gave birth to a baby girl called ACHOLA RACHEAL.
I had no guidance from a mother, and life was generally difficult. The man who impregnated me was an old man with a family and he could not take of me. But amidst all, I managed to raise my daughter through helping people in their gardens and washing for them, and life went on like that.
When my daughter was two-and-a-half years old, I left her with my half brother and I went back to school. I started paying school fees for myself, selling some of the property in the house and using the little money which my father had left for me. I must thank God that I was lucky and my education went on well and I excelled at every level to today.
HOW I MET MY MOTHER
When I was in my second year at the university (around 2009) a classmate who became my friend kept asking me where I came from. She asked me questions concerning my family background and I revealed everything to her. She started telling me that there was a woman in her place whom I resemble 100 percent. And I kept telling her that that’s not my mother and people can naturally resemble others, even if they are not related. She insisted and told me that she was going to confront the lady and ask her whether she knew me.
When my friend was on vacation, she went to her village and visited my mother and narrated to her the story of how she studies with a lady who resembled her. My mother narrated to her the whole story of how she separated with my father and that she left two children: me and my brother CENTENARY (RIP).
Around 4pm one day, I received a call from my friend and the girl was screaming, "PROVIA, talk to your mother! She is your mother! She is alive!" I started talking to my mother but she was crying the entire time. We cried over the phone until we could cry no more.
We arranged for a day to meet and we finally met in the city. Imagine going to pick someone at the bus stop and not knowing how they look. I bypassed her several times until she screamed, "My daughter! I am here!" We started crying again at the bus stop and everyone around us was watching. I was so excited, no matter how my mother looked, but I must say that she was in a sorry and horrible state.
I stayed with her for two weeks in the city before she headed back to her new husband who passed on two years ago. When I told others about Mom, they rejected her and kept telling me that she is not my mother. But I ignored them.
After her husband's death, Mom started living a reckless life of drinking and smoking which was not pleasing. She was staying in a horrible house and I felt mercy for her. It was not until last year that I convinced her to come and stay with me in the city. I had my first Christmas with her in the village and we came back together to the city. She was sickly on and off, so I took her to the hospital and they found her HIV POSITIVE. She also came with a young man who is also sick of the same disease.
As the city is too expensive, I acquired a loan from the bank and I bought a small piece of land and built her a small shelter where she is staying with her young man. I have taken her to a rehabilitation centre where she is being counseled and she is somehow improving. I also found her with a small child of my brother, so now I have three dependents who aren't easy to handle...plus Racheal, of course.
I am trying my level best but its not easy for me. I am trying to bond with my mother because even I had lost love for her. I keep asking myself why she didn’t come back to see me because she knew where she had left and me and didn’t.
I am sorry I have written a lengthy letter to you but feel so much relieved when I share such information with you. I have lots of stories concerning my life of which I think I should compose myself and write inspiring books. I have been humiliated, laughed at and despised because of my background. There are so many young people who are going through the same things I did, so in the future, I want to be their voice. I am still struggling but I know I will get there no matter what.
Lastly, I must say that you are a strong pillar in my life and the huge support you render toward my child's education has contributed to my success.
Thank you for loving us.
For God and my country,
Kesande Provia
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May 15, 2016
From Provia:
Hello everyone! I have recently acquired a loan and bought some land. I want to engage in agriculture as a self-supporting project. I want to begin rearing pigs and chickens. Pigs will be my project and Rachel's project will be chickens. She likes rearing chickens. In other news, MUBS (the business school I teach at) wants all teachers to earn a PhD. So, of late, I have been working on a PhD proposal, looking for scholarships and sponsors. I want to have my PhD in the US or the UK.
Meanwhile, I am a little nervous about Racheal's school fees because they have gone up significantly since last term. As upperclassmen, they engage a lot in seminars at other schools and field studies, which costs additional money. They need that money by June 1. All of this is making me busy, but slowly I know I will get there.
Kind regards to all of you. And much love. -Provia
________________
From Racheal:
Hi dear friends. It’s been a long time since I wrote to you and I have had a lot of experiences I need to share with you.
I am now a candidate for graduation, and trust me, I am so worked up. I have to read all the work I learned in all the previous classes and memorize it before I sit for exams on October 10 this year. Every teacher is making sure that they complete the syllabus before this semester ends and that is why we are not having a holiday this semester. We are doing very many tests and we are always so busy with assignments and research work. We hardly get time to rest or do anything fun.
The only interesting thing coming up is PROM and it’s getting everyone worked up. We have to buy clothes for the day and I really want to be the best but I have no idea of what to put on. And another thing is that I have no PROM date yet but there’s still time to get one. Anyway, I really can’t wait for that day.
Although senior four class is stressing, the most interesting thing is that after the final exams we shall have a very long vacation and my wish in that long holiday is to visit you but I really don’t know if it will be possible.
Another worrying thing are the expenses in this class. I am actually so worried because I'm not sure if mum will be able to cover it, but I know that the Mighty God who put us on this earth will take care of my worries.
Hope you are getting on well. I would really wish to write more but I am focused on studies. I’ve got to read and hope to write again soon to update you. Much love. -Racheal
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November 26, 2015
From Racheal:
Hello supporters,
First I would like to appreciate all that you have been doing for me ever since I started secondary. I don’t know how to thank you but I am really grateful for each and every thing and you will always be on my heart.
My semester was really great for me although I had to really work hard. My sciences (physics, chemistry and biology) were not so great and that is why I have been thinking of a resolution on my future career. At first I thought one’s first dream for a future career never changes but sometimes it does change on the way. Although I wanted to be a psychiatrist, I don’t think sciences are so much of my thing. I don’t know so much about the career opportunities in the arts but I told mum to help me out and she said she will help. But anyway, besides being a psychiatrist, I have a chance at writing and singing but singing in Uganda doesn’t earn a lot. I talked to my English teacher about writing novels and he said it can earn as long as you write what people love. And besides, I think arts will give me just enough time to do very many things because most of them don’t keep you too busy compared to doctors who are needed to do their duties almost all the time. Since I would like to put up a charity organization when I am older, I think arts offer more opportunities. Besides I am looking more at job creation because Uganda doesn’t have as many job opportunities.
Mum and I are planning on going to the village for Christmas. I am so excited because I have taken a very long time without seeing my grandparents and long time friends. Besides, people in the village take Christmas more seriously (even when most don’t know the true meaning of Christmas) than people in the city. Most people go to church for the very first time in the whole year. Some people believe it is the only day to eat meat and rice. For some people, Christmas without meat and rice is not Christmas. It is a time when people buy really nice clothes and shoes. Recreational centers, theatres and cinema halls are always full on that day. I prefer staying at home because I am really afraid of congested places. In most cases, I take a simple walk and return home.
Once again, thank you so much for enabling my future. May God reward you abundantly. We wish you a merry Christmas and a prosperous new year.
Love,
Racheal
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August 23, 2015
From Racheal:
Hello supporters!
Firstly, we would like to thank you for all that you do for us. You’re the people who make our lives a smoother road to travel; you always make us feel loved. Trust us that the gratitude we feel is beyond description. How we wish we could put it in better words: thank you for everything.
This year hasn’t been such a simple class for me. I got 35 aggregates and narrowly missed a first grade, but I am happy to say I’ve improved compared to the beginning of term exams. I hope to make a large improvement next term because to improve, we go step by step, and I am surely on my way.
Lately, I have been writing an African-based tragic novel. It is actually the first story that has taken me a very long time because I just want it to be very super. It is about a young girl who is living a blissful life but it all ends when her dad dies of cancer and after some time, the mother dies in a planned fatal accident. I’ll give you the details when I am done writing.
Earlier this summer, I attended a Catholic camp. It is mainly to help young Catholics like myself know more about their faith since we nowadays face very many challenges in the world. There were 21 schools that participated in this camp and I met very many new people. I love to interact although it is not very easy for me, especially with new people. We were divided into smaller groups and I was put in a team in which I was voted as the Sports Minister for the camp. Very many leaders came from our team, and therefore, we were the best team. I am also pleased to say that my school hosted the camp. We had friendly games like football and basketball, and we went for jogging early in the morning. We also had a dance and it was the most fun. All in all, I had a great time and I made my teachers proud because I was the only camp leader from my school.
For the short holiday, I am just planning on visiting three of my school friends: Vivian, Jacky and Brian. I am also planning to spend most of the time reading my books to improve on my performance to make those who love me so proud. I plan to put an extra effort in my Math, Physics and Chemistry courses since they are becoming tough, but I am sure that I will overcome the challenge, especially with an extra effort. Of course I’ll surely miss my mother since she will be away on a trip to Italy for two weeks. She told me that it is a sponsored educational tour to Milan which is likely to get her other opportunities like a scholarship for her PHD. I am just so proud of her and wish on the moon that she succeeds in all she tries to do. (Note from Jess: Provia’s trip to Milan has been fully funded by her business school at which she teaches. This is a huge accomplishment for her—it was a very competitive selection process to go—and this will be Provia’s first time out of the country and on an airplane. She was extremely nervous about the entire thing, but I assured her it would be an incredible time.)
Thank you once again for the support. We love you all.
Kind Regards!!
Achola Rachael
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March 15, 2015
Racheal has a new story to share...
and you are among the first to read it! Over her holiday break, Racheal had some time to write a fun little story about a shy girl whose talent is finally realized. At school, Racheal has discovered her passion for creative writing, and I am so excited to be able to share with you her first printed story. In a country where only 56% of females can read and a mere 10% attend secondary school, this alone is a truly remarkable feat.
In order to continue supporting Racheal's education—and her creative endeavors—we need your help for the upcoming May term. We're off to a great start with more than $200 raised, but we still need approximately $275 to have the term fully funded. Thank you so much for your support.
And now, without further ado, please enjoy the international premiere of Amy's Mask by Racheal Kobugabe:
Amy's Mask
A story by Racheal Kobugabe
(with minor grammatical and punctuation edits by Jess Hoffert)
“Um…excuse me Mr. Ben, I think it’s better if you just stop here. I’ll just continue to school,” Amy said.
“Amy,” he exclaimed, “You jolly well know that if your dad gets to know about this whole thing then I am fired.”
“Yeah I know, but remember, I am new in this neighborhood so I’ve got to know it better,” she said.
“Alright, but try to be careful.”
And so she went out into the street swaying like a free bird in the air. The moment she made her first step into school, she realized everyone around was looking at her, though she moved on like a confident girl. Anyway, who expected her to be the shy daughter to a governor?
“Hi guys,” she said to a group of boys who were standing nearby. One thing she wasn’t aware of is that this group played pranks, especially on new people.
“Hey there, how can we be of use?” they asked simultaneously.
“Um...I was wondering where I could find Room 13.”
“I’ll show you,” one of them offered.
“This place is really stinky. Oh no, this guy brought me to the GENTS washroom. This school has unfair people.”
“Excuse me, I can show you 13,” someone said from behind.
“Really, tell me you’re planning another one. Please don’t play any more pranks on me,” she said.
“I am really apologetic for your first experience in school. I am Aidan.”
“I am…Ashley.” I was about to say Amy, forgetting I had to change identity for security reasons which I even didn’t know but anyway mum and dad say so.
“Settle down everyone,” Mr. Jenkins yelled. “I wish to introduce a new student. Ashley, come up here,” he said. “Introduce yourself to us.”
“I am Ashley Dimes.”
“Ashley, as your first test in this class, give a speech which inspires failures who are hopeless,” Mr. Jenkins said.
“In life, we all have ups and downs, but these don’t last forever because everything happens for a reason. We always have a second chance in life and when we give it a try, we always find a better person in us, especially with friends. Always remember that every problem has a solution. Thank you,” I concluded and to my surprise, everyone clapped.
“You passed your test, please take your seat.”
When the bell was sounded, I went out alone, though everyone was congratulating me. I got a hamburger and sat alone on a table opposite to the dudes who teased me and one of them came to me.
“Hey hot girl, why don’t you show your talent like those girls up there,” he said.
I didn’t answer.
“So you’re scared to show your talent to us,” he screamed, attracting everybody’s attention. It’s good that Aidan came to my table and saved the situation. I ran away to cry when the two were almost fighting, and later I heard that they fought and were given a week’s detention.
After school, I was walking through the auditorium and a bucket of paint was poured on me. Looking behind me, it was the boys who tormented me all day, led by Billy, and they laughed so loudly joined by Danny’s group. I took my phone out of the bag crying because I was fed up with everything, and I really had to call Dad to send Ben to pick me up from this hell.
“Hey Ashley. Wait!” Aidan screamed running towards me with five other girls.
“Who are you calling?” they all asked.
“I am calling Dad to pick me up and take me to another school.”
“No phone calls. Remember, you said everyone deserves a second chance so we have to fight this battle. Ashley, please don’t give up on us. Meet these girls: Barley, Glosh, Flash, Bells and Jacky. They want to be your friends.”
“Nice to meet you guys,” I said. “But I really need another dress because I am messed up.”
“Let’s buy one,” Jacky said.
“Hey Ashley, you go and wait in the ladies’ room,” they said.
I really don’t know how they did it but they came back with a cool dress which fitted me so perfectly as if it were mine. We headed for the gym for practice. I don’t know what for. We sat in a circle and Barley started singing and Jacky sang some lines with Glosh coming in, and now my turn came. I just started rapping and then Flash also came in and we went around again and I caught the last lines of the song and we all laughed at how amazing the song was.
“Hey, have you guys noted that we have the best voice in school in our group?” Glosh said. “Ashley you truly sing like an angel and no one has such a voice in school.”
“Tomorrow you’re going on stage, babe,” Flash said.
“Guys…I have a problem. I can’t go up there and watch hundreds of thousands of eyes looking at me,” I said.
“Alright, lets think of a way to get her up there. Guys, I have an idea,” Glosh said. “Buy the world’s coolest mask.”
“Wow! I love the idea. Let’s head for the store and get it,” I said. I stood somewhere as the others continued.
“What’s up Ashley?” Flash asked. They all turned and looked at me but perplexed as I was, the girls returned to see what on earth had got me perplexed.
“Get it,” Flash said. It was 800 US dollars but we all contributed and when I tried it on, it fit me perfectly as if I had once owned it.
It’s really a good feeling to be on stage, especially when the world doesn’t know that you are the one. We were discussing when Danny and her ducklings came around.
“Introduce us to the mask girl,” she said.
“Who is she anyway? Maybe she’s in school and likes our group, didn’t you see her coming from nowhere?” I said.
“Alright, we shall see about that,” Danny said.
In the last class, I noticed Aidan moving out and the teacher didn’t move a muscle to stop him. Maybe it’s true that he has pushed out with half the girls in school. I’ll see about that. I talked to my girls and they said that following him is a good idea.
Spy network at work, he moved out as usual while Barley moved to the front to distract the teacher. I was supposed to use 30 minutes to follow Aidan and get to know his plans. I moved out successfully but I bumped into him at the elevator.
“Hi Ashley,” he said, looking at his watch as to show me he was late for maybe a push out meeting.
“Hey, talk to you later in the day,” he said pressing 15. Floor 15, that’s the library. Jesus Christ, why the hell on earth would he push out in the library? I pressed the same and when I was there, I dived through the shelves making sure I didn’t get noticed. I saw a woman of around 45 years blushing.
“Hello Mrs. Tina,” he said. “I got everything you wanted.”
“So he has a tutor, my good Lord!” I exclaimed feeling sorry for him. “Why would principal Karl recommend extra lessons for a popular singer, actor, dancer, everything?”
My phone showed a green light meaning I’ve got 10 minutes to get back to class. I made my way through the shelves following my karate lessons and am finally in class with 2 minutes remaining. Spy mission accomplished without unconcerned people noticing, but thanks to Barley for distracting the teacher for that long. Finally, the bell sounded and we went home.
“Hey, what happened? Was the girl cute or what?” the girls asked.
“Yeah, the cute 45-year-old tutor who is supposed to help him with his sciences overblushes.”
“Wait a second, you mean…”
“Yeah,” I interrupted before Flash completed. “Guys, maybe he doesn’t ever push out. He doesn’t even look like that kind of guy. Have you ever sat down and thought about it, or do we need another spy network to see hisFriday night and Saturday plans?”
“Cool idea,” they all said in unison, but Jacky posed a question.
“Why do you care about him, Ashley?”
“Maybe because he was the first kind person to me when I entered school,” I answered.
“Alright, I am in. Just wanted to be sure nothing is going on,” she said.
We all dressed in black heading for Aidan’s place. His friends came screaming and Aidan came out and entered the car. We followed them and they went to some cafeteria. We watched them until they were all tired and some of his friends were totally drunk. Nothing big really happened. Saturday, we did the same thing and he went shopping with his mum. While we watched them through the window, they prepared food together while his little sister did her homework. In the evening, he didn‘t move out and we also retired.
I retired to bed peacefully to bed until it was morning. Dad is staying home so it is super that we shall have time to talk.
“Morning Dad,” I said.
“Morning Ashley Amy,” Dad answered.
“You’re so sarcastic, Dad, and guess what? I can now perform on stage at school.”
“What? Come here.” And embracing me into his arms he said, “I am really proud of you.”
“Do you want to hang out with me?” he asked.
“No, Dad. Because Dad’s hanging out is really boring.”
“But Ashley, I thought we could go shopping and have a picnic afterwards,” he said.
“Dad, you can’t just go out there, you will be all over the news.”
“No Ashley, how about in disguise?” he said with a grin.
“Alright Dad, let’s try it!” I screamed, going inside to prepare myself. When I was ready, I put my mask on and promised myself to tell Dad about it. I came downstairs and found a man standing.
“Hey Dad, we’ve got to go!” I screamed. “Wow, you look…different. Yeah Dad, very different,” I said.
I had lots of fun and found out that Dad was so good at choosing clothes and shoes. I got the real experience of shopping as it was my first time. Whenever I wanted clothes, I would just call and they would be delivered in the right sizes and amounts.
“Have you checked the notice board yet?” Flash asked.
“No, what big thing is there?” I asked.
“It says Chris Brown is looking for dancers from every school to dance in his video and we have to try this one. Registration is free.”
“Not too bad, Flash, but we have to tell the others.” We walked to tell the others, but before we said anything, I realized I had a tiny problem. “Will Chris Brown allow me to put my mask on?”
“It’s alright Ashley, he will allow you to do it,” Glosh said.
We registered successfully but to my surprise, Aidan was there with his group and was talking against us to the group. “These freaks are also here,” Danny said when she saw us approaching but anyway, Aidan welcomed us while the others laughed.
“Attention!” some lady screamed. “Thank you all for showing up. I want to inform you that the auditions begin on Saturday.”
We departed and I realized our group was actually the last to register. As we departed, Aidan came to us and said, “Ashley, are you also going to participate?”
“Um…not really Aidan. I just gave these guys a push.”
“Alright girls, I wish you the best,” he said and then walked away.
Saturday came around and everyone got so excited but I was actually nervous because all the groups were perfect and what if I made a mistake and fell down? I couldn’t take this anymore so I ran off to the bathroom and sat there singing.
“Ashley, are you in there?” I heard a voice calling and I opened. It was the whole group.
“Everyone gets nervous, Ashley, and we are also nervous but just visualize pessimistically and lets go out there and make some magic.”
We were finally called up to stage being the last group to come up. We were all in masks but mine was different. I made sure I visualized it all through, and when we finished, the others took their masks off but I didn’t.
“We chose 4 groups,” Mike said, Chris Brown’s manager. “We meet the groups again here on Saturday morning and others who won’t be coming back, we are really sorry. We have chosen 2 groups for girls and 2 for boys but we want 2 groups at the end, girls and boys. When I read your group, you come up starting with girls.”
“Give it up for the Smart Girls!”
This took me by surprise. It was Danny’s group, and I received a shock when they read The Panthers but it wasn’t more than the one on Danny’s face. We went up happily and for the boys, they read Aidan’s group and Billy’s group. Chris stood up to talk.
“I want to congratulate you all for coming this far and remember on Saturday it’s going to be different. The girls get on and battle and the group which gives up is out, the same for the boys because you guys actually tied up so we are not sure if we can judge you anymore. Thank you all for coming and see you this Saturday,” he concluded.
School is going well and I am managing my life as Ashley, Amy and mask girl at the same time and actually no one suspects that I can be the mask girl because I rarely talk. But I knew I had to handle Aidan’s problem of a tutor although he didn’t have the slightest idea that I knew about it.
“Hey Aidan, can we talk tonight?” I asked.
“Alright Ashley, we will chat. Hope your laptop isn’t sick.”
“What? That’s crazy dude,” I said and we all laughed and then parted but guess who appeared? Danny. But of course she wanted to know what I was talking about with Aidan, her beloved, who doesn’t even care about her.
“You really want to know? He told me that if I see you, I should give you this milkshake,” I said, and she fell for my prank. I had actually picked it up from the trash can when I saw her coming. I waited for her to take the last bit of it and I told her, and then left her with her ducklings.
“Your room looks big, beautiful and organized,” Aidan said.
“Thanks,” I said.
“By the way, what did you want to talk about?” he asked.
“I need you to be honest with me, please Aidan,” I said.
“I promise I’ll be honest,” he said.
“Do you have extra lessons?” I asked.
“Yeah, I do. But how would everyone look at me if they got to know about it?” he said.
“It’s ok, Aidan, but for how long is it going to be?”
“As long as I do well in the next test, it will be all over but I have no hope because all Tina does is blush and I really don’t understand,” he said.
“Maybe I can help,” I said.
“You think so?” he asked in relief.
“Yeah, I mean what are friends for anyways?” I said with a smile.
“Thanks. When do we start?” he said.
“Tomorrow. I usually use 25 minutes for lunch then spare the rest for a group discussion,” I said.
“Cool idea, see you soon and thanks a lot,” he said.
“Anytime.”
I switched off and went to bed.
________________________
January 1, 2015
Happy New Year!
Thanks to a surplus of funds for Racheal's next term, I was able to send an additional $75 for Christmas gifts. Provia, Racheal, and the three others living with them (Sharon, Rozett and Prossy) were able to go to the market and purchase new dresses for a holiday pilgrimage to the Catholic Uganda Martyrs' Shrine in Namugongo (click here for the full report with photos). They are so grateful for your continued support, and I've included a couple of notes from them below. Here's to a blessed 2015 for all!
From Provia: "Thank you so much for the funds! I will make sure family receives Christmas this year. It's going to be a unique xmas because it's not a common practice to receive gifts from friends. Thanks for making me proud! If I had a way to send you at least something of Ugandan made I would. Tears of joy are rolling through my eyes right now. My small family is happy and they can't wait."
From Racheal: "Thank you so much for making us look beautiful! May you enter the New Year with all the favors and blessings!"
I continue to enjoy the occasional phone conversation with Provia and Racheal. It amazes me how upbeat and joyful they are whenever we talk. I have a lot to learn from their infectious spirit. Racheal loves to write stories...she's working on one now that's loosely based on her life, and I can't wait until it's finished. I'll be sure to share it with you, too. Racheal begins her next term in February (which is already paid for...thank you!) and we have already raised $125 toward her May term.
Your generosity warms my heart. Thanks for being a part of this journey. -Jess
_______________________
August 9, 2014
Dear Sponsors,
I am pleased to inform you that Rachael is fine and in good health. She is back home for a short holiday, which will take a month, then she will be going back to school next month on September 8.
Before going any further, allow me thank you for the continued support to Rachael’s school fees. I am grateful for your efforts and may God reward you abundantly and continue to bless you in your daily endeavors.
I am also pleased to inform you that she is doing well academically because she was able to stay in the top 35% of her class.
Allow me also to inform you that out of 18 terms/ semesters to be covered, she has only covered five semesters, which I can’t manage on my own without your support. I kindly therefore seek for your continued support. The list below is an outline of what is required of next term that will be beginning on 8th September 2014:
Tuition fees/all meals: 690,000 USH ($264)
Accommodation: 300,000 ($115)
Development fund: 70,000 ($27)
Building fund: 180,000 ($69)
Hair cutting: 2,000 ($1)
Caution money: 8,900 ($4)
Brushes/ brooms: 8,000 ($4)
Medical fees: 20,000 ($9)
Other fees: 75,000 ($29)
Total: 1,357,400 Ug ~ $522
The above information covers only school requirements without her necessities.
I don’t have a permanent job, but I work as a volunteer in the University where I assist lecturers in teaching. I am facilitated with a stipend of 900,000 Uganda shillings, equivalent of $360 per term, which cannot cover the whole fees. I use the money you contribute to cover the above and use my earnings to cover her school necessities. I must confess to you that sometimes I am left with nothing when she is going to school and yet I also have to survive. Being the only educated child in the family, I also have other dependents.
It is therefore that I need your support.
Thank you so much!
Blessings to you all!!
KESANDE PROVIA
on Behalf of
ACHOLA RACHEAL
_______________________
February 8, 2014
Dear supporters and friends,
Hope this message finds you well! Allow me to congratulate you for having completed the year 2013 regardless of whatever you went through, and wish you a prosperous 2014. To those who lost their loved ones, may the Lord continue blessing you and cover you with courage and strength.First and foremost, the aim of this letter is to extend my sincere gratefulness and appreciation toward the support you gave towards my daughter Achola Racheal. You managed to raise her school fees in time and she reported to school on the first day. Thank you so much!! She joined a new class which is form two and she is excited about the new class. And she is so grateful for your kind support.
Important to note: Thank you for putting trust in Jess Hoffert. Without him I could not be able to reach you.
Regarding myself, I did not finish my research of Masters in Hospitality and Tourism management as I had earlier promised due to circumstances beyond my control, meaning I did not graduate, but am working hard such that at least I submit it before May this year.
Finally, allow me once again thank you for the kind support you're rendering toward us and may the good Lord continue blessing you in whatever you do.
Thank you very much!!!
Yours Faithfully,
KESANDE PROVIA on behalf of Achola Racheal
______________________
December 11, 2013
In due respect, allow me salute you all in your different capacities. How are you and your families? What about your daily endeavors? May God bless all the works of your hands. Hope this letter finds you well!
Myself, am fine and Racheal too is fine, and generally Uganda is already in the moods of Christmas. Though with the big loss of the FATHER OF THE NATION; LATE NELSON MANDELA ( RIP).
It has been long since I last communicated with you. I apologize for keeping quiet for all this while.
UPDATE ON RACHEAL’S EDUCATION
Am happy to inform you that Rachael was promoted to form Two with an average of 75 and she got the 12th position out of 80 candidates. She is among the best students in her class. Thanks to you all who are enabling her future!
Her health is okay apart from her eyes and allergy which keep disturbing her. As far as her career is concerned, she is still focused but the challenge is that she wants a lot of materials and literature concerning psychiatry which I haven’t provided. She also wants me to connect her to a mentor in that area of psychiatry which is not easy for me. Then, alongside that, she likes writing poems still concerning her career and I hope one time she will send you her write ups after compiling them. So inspiring! Outside books, she loves swimming but she is still under training.
Her next term will begin next year on January 27th. That’s when she will be expected back to school. The school dues have been increased due to the fact that she is entering a new class with new requirements. She needs 1,300,000 Ugandan shillings which is approximately $600. So I kindly still need your support. Thank you in advance.
PROGRESS REPORT ABOUT MY EDUCATION
As I had told you last time that I was pursuing a Masters degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management, I wish to inform you that I have been unlucky. I could not meet the deadline of submitting my dissertation, thus I will miss next year's graduation. I have been working hard to finish but things could not work out well for me. But I promise you that I am not sleeping as am working tirelessly to finish, because my future opportunities depend on completion of that research. I need your prayers!
Lastly, I wish everybody in this festive season good health as we prepare to celebrate Christmas.
Merry Christmas and prosperous New Year!
Lots of love!
Provia.
____________________________
March 25, 2013
To all my supporters:
I greet you all in your respective capacities. How are you, your families and all your endeavors? I hope this letter finds you well! I am okay myself only that we are having a lot of rain in Uganda. But altogether it is a mixture of rain and sunshine.
I'm happy to inform you that I'm in the final semester of my studies. I will sit for the end of semester exams in May this year, so I'm working very hard to achieve that goal. It is not easy for me, most especially alongside work, because I teach in a far distant university on weekends (around 300 miles away). But very soon, I will be out of class as I mentioned above and I hope to stabilize.
I'm also pleased to share with you the current status of my daughter at school. Last week, on March 17, it was Racheal's visitation day. On visitation day, all parents are allowed to go to school and check on their children. She was very happy because we had missed each other for a month. She is in good condition and very active at school because I found her putting on a tag on her uniform “VOLUNTEER” meaning that she was helping parents to find their children. On top of that, she is in a school and church choir which I was happy about. Rachael told me that it has not been easy for her to adjust to a mixed school because previously she was in a single sex school. Though she is happy, she told me she is somehow challenged when it comes to the opposite sex.
At the time of the visitation, they had not done any tests or exams, but I spoke with her class teacher and she told me that Rachael is active in class. The other exciting bit of it, she is studying 17 subjects but she does not like history. But otherwise she is happy to be in a good and famous school. The school is ST. JOSEPHS NAGALAMA.
Most importantly, Rachael is very happy and thankful of the support you are giving towards her education and she promised me that she will never misuse that chance as it is one way of realizing her dreams of becoming a psychiatric doctor. There are so many children in Uganda who are not at school and she would not waste the given opportunity. Otherwise I'm very grateful for all sorts of support you are rendering towards my life and most especially my daughter's well being and education. Thank you very much and may the Almighty God keep blessing the work of your hands.
Yours faithfully,
KESANDE PROVIA
March 1, 2019
From Racheal:
Dear supporters,
It's really great to write to you again at this time of the year to inform you that I have finally completed my journey through high school. I wouldn't have managed to achieve all of this without you because you have walked by me in this journey to the end. I thank you for not giving up on me. And for that I am truly humbled and super grateful. If I was to write a book to let you know how grateful and ecstatic I am to have you, it would not have an end. You mean a lot to me.
My final exams were in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, General Paper and Computer Science. These are my scores:
Biology: E (The equivalent of a “C” in the US)
Chemistry: E
Mathematics: D (The equivalent of a “C+” in the US)
General Paper: 4 (pass with distinction)
Computer Science: 1 (fail)
In order to join university, I need two principal passes which I acquired. The different universities will post their test score minimum requirements in a few weeks’ time, so I will be able to choose a course that fits the points I got. I would love to do medicine and surgery or even something connected to psychiatry. But there are very few psychiatry positions available, and I am not yet sure if it is marketable in my country. So I will have to look for a course that is marketable in the country.
Mum is going to pursue a PhD outside the country in Hong Kong in August 2019 at the same time I will be joining University and it requires a lot of money. I am not really sure if the savings she has are going to be enough for the both of us. But I am hoping for the best.
Yours Faithfully,
Achola Racheal.
__________________
August 28, 2018
From Racheal:
Dear supporters,
My final term in high school commences on September 12. I really appreciate the fact that I am what I am because you are. For the past six years, you have moved with me. Sometimes I stop and pinch myself just to make sure I am not dreaming because never had I ever thought of being in the best performing school in the country. But guess what? I am there because of your great effort.
For the last term, I have to work harder than ever because the final exams in November are the most important. They will act as the determinant as to whether I get the chance to do medicine and surgery or even pharmacy. The experience is a bit overwhelming considering the fact that I have to read and plan for many things in the shortest time possible, but I know that I will make it because I am surrounded by positive energy from Mum, Jess and you.
The costs have increased a bit following developments going on the school, and in total it will be $650. Mum sends her regards and as usual, she is very grateful and she says she feels blessed and touched because of your big hearts. She prays that God replaces whatever you give.
WE LOVE YOU.
YOURS FAITHFULLY,
RACHEAL AND HER MOTHER PROVIA
__________________
May 8, 2018
From Racheal:
Hello wonderful people,
I am delighted to inform you that I am doing my final year in high school. The most amazing thing is that you have moved with me throughout this time and have never given up on me. You have journeyed with me and have been a great blessing in my life. I have reached where I am because of your relentless efforts.
I am now in a short holiday before I return to school on May 25. Next term will be a lot of work for me since I will be having exams from time to time, almost on a weekly basis. I will spend time with mum most of the holiday.
You will always be at heart because you are the best thing that’s ever happened to me in my entire life. I am forever grateful for the happiness you bring into my life. Thank you so much.
Mother is also on a long run looking for a PhD scholarship from any good university out of the country. Really pray that she lands on the best.
Lately, it has been raining on a daily basis so it can get really cold down here and that means that mosquitos increase and so do malaria cases. We therefore have to sleep in treated mosquito nets. Otherwise, Uganda is a great place to be and we are all fine. We wish you all the best in your greatest endeavors.
Love always,
Rachael
_______________
January 3, 2018
From Racheal:
School is really great but a little hectic. I am in the middle of a 2 month holiday and planning to teach myself the Kiswahili language. My favorite class is the Biology class. I am learning about Evolution, Reproduction, Coordination and so much more. We have also been dissecting frogs, rats and cockroaches in the Biology practicals. It is a great experience because the first day we were facing these animals, everyone was screaming. We were all scared but we had to get used to them.
I am glad 2018 will be my final year in high school and am working relentlessly because I want to make each and everyone who loves me very proud. School will start on February 2nd. Thank you for the unflinching support.
_______________
August 22, 2017
From Racheal:
Hello! I have a month long holiday before school starts again, but in the meantime since I don't really have a lot of time left in high school yet we cover a wide range of topics, I am dedicating this holiday to pull my grades up and cover some topics on the curriculum especially in Maths.
At school, I participated in athletics during sports day and did really well. My 18th birthday was at school and it was during exams but I had fun on that day, it was memorable with friends. After exams I got some free time to relax and taught my friends how to play chess and also looked more at improving my chess skills. Chess might be a surprise but fact is, I am a talented girl and anything I put my mind to, it suddenly works out. I started playing chess in 2016 and taught myself, am passionate about it. I also taught my friends a few songs and we sung.
The hectic part is that in the midterm I was always fixed with books and notes to take. I really had to work hard to keep up with the speed at which we were doing things. But I’m ready for anything now.
I can't stop appreciating all of you. Mum is more than happy. We are forever grateful to all supporters who make our lives complete. We love, pray and consider you in every step we take. Thank you so much. -Racheal
_______________
May 1, 2017
From Provia:
Hope you are all doing fine. Racheal is back home and she's not bad. Her performance is encouraging. She performed well in Biology with B, Math with a C and Chemistry with D, then ICT (Information Communication and Technology) with an A. Her overall grade is 14/20. I want to keep her busy during this short holiday, taking her for some lessons with teachers from other prominent schools. Thank you for your continued support.
From Racheal:
Hello! It's been a while since we last communicated. I am so happy to be in the best school in the country and working so hard for my last two years. I hardly write these days but I have at least read two novels while at school: one was called Rich Dad Poor Dad and the other was Revelations. Rich Dad Poor Dad is a novel written by one of the world's multimillionaires called Robert. It's about handling the money you earn in whatever you do. Revelations is fiction and is about vampires. Otherwise, I am doing great and would like to appreciate you for your unflinching support. Thank you so much. Love you all.
_________
February 7, 2017
Test results were recently released from the all-important exam that Racheal had to take to determine the course of her final two years in secondary school. An aggregate grade between 8 and 32 is the highest-performing score. Racheal received an aggregate grade of 23, meaning she could basically choose which school she wanted to attend and they would accept her. Yet, she still was in tears because she felt she could do better. Here are the full results. Note that the ranking is from 1-5, with a 1 being the best score and a 5 being the lowest:
ENG : 3 LIT : 1 CRE : 3 HIS : 3 GEO : 4 MAT : 3 PHY : 5 CHE : 2 BIO : 4 CST : 4
Aggregate score : 23 Overall grade : 1
Racheal's dream right now is to be a psychiatrist or a lawyer, and due to her exceptional literature grade, she is on track to perform well in those professions.
Within a couple days after results were released, Racheal applied to St. Mary's Boarding School, a higher-performing secondary school that is well-regarded in the country. She received an acceptance letter just a few days later.
Provia was so worried about the "exorbitant fee" to attend the school that she wasn't sure Racheal could attend. I asked her how much it would cost. She said it would be the equivalent of $650 per term (about $200 more than the previous school). I said we could take care of that. You wouldn't imagine the scream of joy I heard on the other end of the phone. Racheal later told me they danced through the house after I told them this would be possible.
_________
December 12, 2016
From Racheal:
Hello supporters,
It has been quite a while since I last sent you a letter but in my heart, I have always put you as first priority. You are the people who make my life possible and trust me, I wouldn’t be living a happy life without your unflinching support. Like I once said, mere phrases cannot express my gratitude to you. With your continuous help, I hope to be the greatest when I am older. Thank you so much.
This year has been a long one with a lot of hard work for me. School was a little hectic. I had to stay up late trying to read for my final papers in O-level. I am hoping for the best when results are out in February. If they as good as I hope, I wish to change schools and that is when we shall know about the school fees for the next two years before I graduate to go to the University and chase my dream careers.
So far, my long holiday has been interesting. One of my family friends invited me on a trip to Kenya and it was a very good experience. I compared my own country to Kenya. I realized that their education system is a bit better and they are more developed.
I am eagerly looking forward to Christmas. It’s a big day for everyone. I am waiting for my mother’s plans and of course I’ll also tell her what I think we should do for Christmas. These days, I am spending a lot of time with my mother and I am really elated. She plans to take me to different places. So far, I am growing happily and stronger.
Thanks go to all those who make my whole life comfortable and to all of you who have loved me and chosen to support me. I am really grateful.
—Racheal
_________
August 23, 2016
From Provia (with minor edits for clarity):
RE: A BRIEF HISTORY ABOUT MY LIFE AND MY MOTHER
I am called Kesande Provia, the third-born out of five children from my mother’s side. I am from an extended family where by mother was a second wife. It’s so unfortunate that out of the five children, I am the only one still living. The first two children passed on at an infant age, then my immediate follower passed on at the age of 6 years. The last born, according to my mother, she doesn’t know how he died but he left a kid behind.
ABOUT MY MOTHER
She separated with my father when I was about two years old and my brother was one. We were entirely taken care of by my father and were under the harsh treatment of my stepmother.
Dad was a great man. He bathed us, took us to school very early in the morning, and cooked for us like a mother could do to her children. And the most hurtful thing was that we did not know our mother. There were no photographs of her and father did not know her whereabouts.
Me and my brother were in the same class because you couldn’t differentiate who was older or younger. When we were in primary three, my brother developed fever for three days and he passed on. I was left alone with my father and each time I asked him about my mother he told me that they separated and she went to Zaire (a neighboring country) and it’s where she died.
I grew up in misery and hardship, partly because my stepmother kept referring to me as an outcast from a prostitute. But I still thank my late father who was there for me until his last breath in in 1998.
Father died when I was 14 years old. I stopped school because there was no one to take care of me. I became desperate and didn’t know how to manage myself. My family abandoned me and in that same year I got pregnant and gave birth to a baby girl called ACHOLA RACHEAL.
I had no guidance from a mother, and life was generally difficult. The man who impregnated me was an old man with a family and he could not take of me. But amidst all, I managed to raise my daughter through helping people in their gardens and washing for them, and life went on like that.
When my daughter was two-and-a-half years old, I left her with my half brother and I went back to school. I started paying school fees for myself, selling some of the property in the house and using the little money which my father had left for me. I must thank God that I was lucky and my education went on well and I excelled at every level to today.
HOW I MET MY MOTHER
When I was in my second year at the university (around 2009) a classmate who became my friend kept asking me where I came from. She asked me questions concerning my family background and I revealed everything to her. She started telling me that there was a woman in her place whom I resemble 100 percent. And I kept telling her that that’s not my mother and people can naturally resemble others, even if they are not related. She insisted and told me that she was going to confront the lady and ask her whether she knew me.
When my friend was on vacation, she went to her village and visited my mother and narrated to her the story of how she studies with a lady who resembled her. My mother narrated to her the whole story of how she separated with my father and that she left two children: me and my brother CENTENARY (RIP).
Around 4pm one day, I received a call from my friend and the girl was screaming, "PROVIA, talk to your mother! She is your mother! She is alive!" I started talking to my mother but she was crying the entire time. We cried over the phone until we could cry no more.
We arranged for a day to meet and we finally met in the city. Imagine going to pick someone at the bus stop and not knowing how they look. I bypassed her several times until she screamed, "My daughter! I am here!" We started crying again at the bus stop and everyone around us was watching. I was so excited, no matter how my mother looked, but I must say that she was in a sorry and horrible state.
I stayed with her for two weeks in the city before she headed back to her new husband who passed on two years ago. When I told others about Mom, they rejected her and kept telling me that she is not my mother. But I ignored them.
After her husband's death, Mom started living a reckless life of drinking and smoking which was not pleasing. She was staying in a horrible house and I felt mercy for her. It was not until last year that I convinced her to come and stay with me in the city. I had my first Christmas with her in the village and we came back together to the city. She was sickly on and off, so I took her to the hospital and they found her HIV POSITIVE. She also came with a young man who is also sick of the same disease.
As the city is too expensive, I acquired a loan from the bank and I bought a small piece of land and built her a small shelter where she is staying with her young man. I have taken her to a rehabilitation centre where she is being counseled and she is somehow improving. I also found her with a small child of my brother, so now I have three dependents who aren't easy to handle...plus Racheal, of course.
I am trying my level best but its not easy for me. I am trying to bond with my mother because even I had lost love for her. I keep asking myself why she didn’t come back to see me because she knew where she had left and me and didn’t.
I am sorry I have written a lengthy letter to you but feel so much relieved when I share such information with you. I have lots of stories concerning my life of which I think I should compose myself and write inspiring books. I have been humiliated, laughed at and despised because of my background. There are so many young people who are going through the same things I did, so in the future, I want to be their voice. I am still struggling but I know I will get there no matter what.
Lastly, I must say that you are a strong pillar in my life and the huge support you render toward my child's education has contributed to my success.
Thank you for loving us.
For God and my country,
Kesande Provia
_____________
May 15, 2016
From Provia:
Hello everyone! I have recently acquired a loan and bought some land. I want to engage in agriculture as a self-supporting project. I want to begin rearing pigs and chickens. Pigs will be my project and Rachel's project will be chickens. She likes rearing chickens. In other news, MUBS (the business school I teach at) wants all teachers to earn a PhD. So, of late, I have been working on a PhD proposal, looking for scholarships and sponsors. I want to have my PhD in the US or the UK.
Meanwhile, I am a little nervous about Racheal's school fees because they have gone up significantly since last term. As upperclassmen, they engage a lot in seminars at other schools and field studies, which costs additional money. They need that money by June 1. All of this is making me busy, but slowly I know I will get there.
Kind regards to all of you. And much love. -Provia
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From Racheal:
Hi dear friends. It’s been a long time since I wrote to you and I have had a lot of experiences I need to share with you.
I am now a candidate for graduation, and trust me, I am so worked up. I have to read all the work I learned in all the previous classes and memorize it before I sit for exams on October 10 this year. Every teacher is making sure that they complete the syllabus before this semester ends and that is why we are not having a holiday this semester. We are doing very many tests and we are always so busy with assignments and research work. We hardly get time to rest or do anything fun.
The only interesting thing coming up is PROM and it’s getting everyone worked up. We have to buy clothes for the day and I really want to be the best but I have no idea of what to put on. And another thing is that I have no PROM date yet but there’s still time to get one. Anyway, I really can’t wait for that day.
Although senior four class is stressing, the most interesting thing is that after the final exams we shall have a very long vacation and my wish in that long holiday is to visit you but I really don’t know if it will be possible.
Another worrying thing are the expenses in this class. I am actually so worried because I'm not sure if mum will be able to cover it, but I know that the Mighty God who put us on this earth will take care of my worries.
Hope you are getting on well. I would really wish to write more but I am focused on studies. I’ve got to read and hope to write again soon to update you. Much love. -Racheal
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November 26, 2015
From Racheal:
Hello supporters,
First I would like to appreciate all that you have been doing for me ever since I started secondary. I don’t know how to thank you but I am really grateful for each and every thing and you will always be on my heart.
My semester was really great for me although I had to really work hard. My sciences (physics, chemistry and biology) were not so great and that is why I have been thinking of a resolution on my future career. At first I thought one’s first dream for a future career never changes but sometimes it does change on the way. Although I wanted to be a psychiatrist, I don’t think sciences are so much of my thing. I don’t know so much about the career opportunities in the arts but I told mum to help me out and she said she will help. But anyway, besides being a psychiatrist, I have a chance at writing and singing but singing in Uganda doesn’t earn a lot. I talked to my English teacher about writing novels and he said it can earn as long as you write what people love. And besides, I think arts will give me just enough time to do very many things because most of them don’t keep you too busy compared to doctors who are needed to do their duties almost all the time. Since I would like to put up a charity organization when I am older, I think arts offer more opportunities. Besides I am looking more at job creation because Uganda doesn’t have as many job opportunities.
Mum and I are planning on going to the village for Christmas. I am so excited because I have taken a very long time without seeing my grandparents and long time friends. Besides, people in the village take Christmas more seriously (even when most don’t know the true meaning of Christmas) than people in the city. Most people go to church for the very first time in the whole year. Some people believe it is the only day to eat meat and rice. For some people, Christmas without meat and rice is not Christmas. It is a time when people buy really nice clothes and shoes. Recreational centers, theatres and cinema halls are always full on that day. I prefer staying at home because I am really afraid of congested places. In most cases, I take a simple walk and return home.
Once again, thank you so much for enabling my future. May God reward you abundantly. We wish you a merry Christmas and a prosperous new year.
Love,
Racheal
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August 23, 2015
From Racheal:
Hello supporters!
Firstly, we would like to thank you for all that you do for us. You’re the people who make our lives a smoother road to travel; you always make us feel loved. Trust us that the gratitude we feel is beyond description. How we wish we could put it in better words: thank you for everything.
This year hasn’t been such a simple class for me. I got 35 aggregates and narrowly missed a first grade, but I am happy to say I’ve improved compared to the beginning of term exams. I hope to make a large improvement next term because to improve, we go step by step, and I am surely on my way.
Lately, I have been writing an African-based tragic novel. It is actually the first story that has taken me a very long time because I just want it to be very super. It is about a young girl who is living a blissful life but it all ends when her dad dies of cancer and after some time, the mother dies in a planned fatal accident. I’ll give you the details when I am done writing.
Earlier this summer, I attended a Catholic camp. It is mainly to help young Catholics like myself know more about their faith since we nowadays face very many challenges in the world. There were 21 schools that participated in this camp and I met very many new people. I love to interact although it is not very easy for me, especially with new people. We were divided into smaller groups and I was put in a team in which I was voted as the Sports Minister for the camp. Very many leaders came from our team, and therefore, we were the best team. I am also pleased to say that my school hosted the camp. We had friendly games like football and basketball, and we went for jogging early in the morning. We also had a dance and it was the most fun. All in all, I had a great time and I made my teachers proud because I was the only camp leader from my school.
For the short holiday, I am just planning on visiting three of my school friends: Vivian, Jacky and Brian. I am also planning to spend most of the time reading my books to improve on my performance to make those who love me so proud. I plan to put an extra effort in my Math, Physics and Chemistry courses since they are becoming tough, but I am sure that I will overcome the challenge, especially with an extra effort. Of course I’ll surely miss my mother since she will be away on a trip to Italy for two weeks. She told me that it is a sponsored educational tour to Milan which is likely to get her other opportunities like a scholarship for her PHD. I am just so proud of her and wish on the moon that she succeeds in all she tries to do. (Note from Jess: Provia’s trip to Milan has been fully funded by her business school at which she teaches. This is a huge accomplishment for her—it was a very competitive selection process to go—and this will be Provia’s first time out of the country and on an airplane. She was extremely nervous about the entire thing, but I assured her it would be an incredible time.)
Thank you once again for the support. We love you all.
Kind Regards!!
Achola Rachael
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March 15, 2015
Racheal has a new story to share...
and you are among the first to read it! Over her holiday break, Racheal had some time to write a fun little story about a shy girl whose talent is finally realized. At school, Racheal has discovered her passion for creative writing, and I am so excited to be able to share with you her first printed story. In a country where only 56% of females can read and a mere 10% attend secondary school, this alone is a truly remarkable feat.
In order to continue supporting Racheal's education—and her creative endeavors—we need your help for the upcoming May term. We're off to a great start with more than $200 raised, but we still need approximately $275 to have the term fully funded. Thank you so much for your support.
And now, without further ado, please enjoy the international premiere of Amy's Mask by Racheal Kobugabe:
Amy's Mask
A story by Racheal Kobugabe
(with minor grammatical and punctuation edits by Jess Hoffert)
“Um…excuse me Mr. Ben, I think it’s better if you just stop here. I’ll just continue to school,” Amy said.
“Amy,” he exclaimed, “You jolly well know that if your dad gets to know about this whole thing then I am fired.”
“Yeah I know, but remember, I am new in this neighborhood so I’ve got to know it better,” she said.
“Alright, but try to be careful.”
And so she went out into the street swaying like a free bird in the air. The moment she made her first step into school, she realized everyone around was looking at her, though she moved on like a confident girl. Anyway, who expected her to be the shy daughter to a governor?
“Hi guys,” she said to a group of boys who were standing nearby. One thing she wasn’t aware of is that this group played pranks, especially on new people.
“Hey there, how can we be of use?” they asked simultaneously.
“Um...I was wondering where I could find Room 13.”
“I’ll show you,” one of them offered.
“This place is really stinky. Oh no, this guy brought me to the GENTS washroom. This school has unfair people.”
“Excuse me, I can show you 13,” someone said from behind.
“Really, tell me you’re planning another one. Please don’t play any more pranks on me,” she said.
“I am really apologetic for your first experience in school. I am Aidan.”
“I am…Ashley.” I was about to say Amy, forgetting I had to change identity for security reasons which I even didn’t know but anyway mum and dad say so.
“Settle down everyone,” Mr. Jenkins yelled. “I wish to introduce a new student. Ashley, come up here,” he said. “Introduce yourself to us.”
“I am Ashley Dimes.”
“Ashley, as your first test in this class, give a speech which inspires failures who are hopeless,” Mr. Jenkins said.
“In life, we all have ups and downs, but these don’t last forever because everything happens for a reason. We always have a second chance in life and when we give it a try, we always find a better person in us, especially with friends. Always remember that every problem has a solution. Thank you,” I concluded and to my surprise, everyone clapped.
“You passed your test, please take your seat.”
When the bell was sounded, I went out alone, though everyone was congratulating me. I got a hamburger and sat alone on a table opposite to the dudes who teased me and one of them came to me.
“Hey hot girl, why don’t you show your talent like those girls up there,” he said.
I didn’t answer.
“So you’re scared to show your talent to us,” he screamed, attracting everybody’s attention. It’s good that Aidan came to my table and saved the situation. I ran away to cry when the two were almost fighting, and later I heard that they fought and were given a week’s detention.
After school, I was walking through the auditorium and a bucket of paint was poured on me. Looking behind me, it was the boys who tormented me all day, led by Billy, and they laughed so loudly joined by Danny’s group. I took my phone out of the bag crying because I was fed up with everything, and I really had to call Dad to send Ben to pick me up from this hell.
“Hey Ashley. Wait!” Aidan screamed running towards me with five other girls.
“Who are you calling?” they all asked.
“I am calling Dad to pick me up and take me to another school.”
“No phone calls. Remember, you said everyone deserves a second chance so we have to fight this battle. Ashley, please don’t give up on us. Meet these girls: Barley, Glosh, Flash, Bells and Jacky. They want to be your friends.”
“Nice to meet you guys,” I said. “But I really need another dress because I am messed up.”
“Let’s buy one,” Jacky said.
“Hey Ashley, you go and wait in the ladies’ room,” they said.
I really don’t know how they did it but they came back with a cool dress which fitted me so perfectly as if it were mine. We headed for the gym for practice. I don’t know what for. We sat in a circle and Barley started singing and Jacky sang some lines with Glosh coming in, and now my turn came. I just started rapping and then Flash also came in and we went around again and I caught the last lines of the song and we all laughed at how amazing the song was.
“Hey, have you guys noted that we have the best voice in school in our group?” Glosh said. “Ashley you truly sing like an angel and no one has such a voice in school.”
“Tomorrow you’re going on stage, babe,” Flash said.
“Guys…I have a problem. I can’t go up there and watch hundreds of thousands of eyes looking at me,” I said.
“Alright, lets think of a way to get her up there. Guys, I have an idea,” Glosh said. “Buy the world’s coolest mask.”
“Wow! I love the idea. Let’s head for the store and get it,” I said. I stood somewhere as the others continued.
“What’s up Ashley?” Flash asked. They all turned and looked at me but perplexed as I was, the girls returned to see what on earth had got me perplexed.
“Get it,” Flash said. It was 800 US dollars but we all contributed and when I tried it on, it fit me perfectly as if I had once owned it.
It’s really a good feeling to be on stage, especially when the world doesn’t know that you are the one. We were discussing when Danny and her ducklings came around.
“Introduce us to the mask girl,” she said.
“Who is she anyway? Maybe she’s in school and likes our group, didn’t you see her coming from nowhere?” I said.
“Alright, we shall see about that,” Danny said.
In the last class, I noticed Aidan moving out and the teacher didn’t move a muscle to stop him. Maybe it’s true that he has pushed out with half the girls in school. I’ll see about that. I talked to my girls and they said that following him is a good idea.
Spy network at work, he moved out as usual while Barley moved to the front to distract the teacher. I was supposed to use 30 minutes to follow Aidan and get to know his plans. I moved out successfully but I bumped into him at the elevator.
“Hi Ashley,” he said, looking at his watch as to show me he was late for maybe a push out meeting.
“Hey, talk to you later in the day,” he said pressing 15. Floor 15, that’s the library. Jesus Christ, why the hell on earth would he push out in the library? I pressed the same and when I was there, I dived through the shelves making sure I didn’t get noticed. I saw a woman of around 45 years blushing.
“Hello Mrs. Tina,” he said. “I got everything you wanted.”
“So he has a tutor, my good Lord!” I exclaimed feeling sorry for him. “Why would principal Karl recommend extra lessons for a popular singer, actor, dancer, everything?”
My phone showed a green light meaning I’ve got 10 minutes to get back to class. I made my way through the shelves following my karate lessons and am finally in class with 2 minutes remaining. Spy mission accomplished without unconcerned people noticing, but thanks to Barley for distracting the teacher for that long. Finally, the bell sounded and we went home.
“Hey, what happened? Was the girl cute or what?” the girls asked.
“Yeah, the cute 45-year-old tutor who is supposed to help him with his sciences overblushes.”
“Wait a second, you mean…”
“Yeah,” I interrupted before Flash completed. “Guys, maybe he doesn’t ever push out. He doesn’t even look like that kind of guy. Have you ever sat down and thought about it, or do we need another spy network to see hisFriday night and Saturday plans?”
“Cool idea,” they all said in unison, but Jacky posed a question.
“Why do you care about him, Ashley?”
“Maybe because he was the first kind person to me when I entered school,” I answered.
“Alright, I am in. Just wanted to be sure nothing is going on,” she said.
We all dressed in black heading for Aidan’s place. His friends came screaming and Aidan came out and entered the car. We followed them and they went to some cafeteria. We watched them until they were all tired and some of his friends were totally drunk. Nothing big really happened. Saturday, we did the same thing and he went shopping with his mum. While we watched them through the window, they prepared food together while his little sister did her homework. In the evening, he didn‘t move out and we also retired.
I retired to bed peacefully to bed until it was morning. Dad is staying home so it is super that we shall have time to talk.
“Morning Dad,” I said.
“Morning Ashley Amy,” Dad answered.
“You’re so sarcastic, Dad, and guess what? I can now perform on stage at school.”
“What? Come here.” And embracing me into his arms he said, “I am really proud of you.”
“Do you want to hang out with me?” he asked.
“No, Dad. Because Dad’s hanging out is really boring.”
“But Ashley, I thought we could go shopping and have a picnic afterwards,” he said.
“Dad, you can’t just go out there, you will be all over the news.”
“No Ashley, how about in disguise?” he said with a grin.
“Alright Dad, let’s try it!” I screamed, going inside to prepare myself. When I was ready, I put my mask on and promised myself to tell Dad about it. I came downstairs and found a man standing.
“Hey Dad, we’ve got to go!” I screamed. “Wow, you look…different. Yeah Dad, very different,” I said.
I had lots of fun and found out that Dad was so good at choosing clothes and shoes. I got the real experience of shopping as it was my first time. Whenever I wanted clothes, I would just call and they would be delivered in the right sizes and amounts.
“Have you checked the notice board yet?” Flash asked.
“No, what big thing is there?” I asked.
“It says Chris Brown is looking for dancers from every school to dance in his video and we have to try this one. Registration is free.”
“Not too bad, Flash, but we have to tell the others.” We walked to tell the others, but before we said anything, I realized I had a tiny problem. “Will Chris Brown allow me to put my mask on?”
“It’s alright Ashley, he will allow you to do it,” Glosh said.
We registered successfully but to my surprise, Aidan was there with his group and was talking against us to the group. “These freaks are also here,” Danny said when she saw us approaching but anyway, Aidan welcomed us while the others laughed.
“Attention!” some lady screamed. “Thank you all for showing up. I want to inform you that the auditions begin on Saturday.”
We departed and I realized our group was actually the last to register. As we departed, Aidan came to us and said, “Ashley, are you also going to participate?”
“Um…not really Aidan. I just gave these guys a push.”
“Alright girls, I wish you the best,” he said and then walked away.
Saturday came around and everyone got so excited but I was actually nervous because all the groups were perfect and what if I made a mistake and fell down? I couldn’t take this anymore so I ran off to the bathroom and sat there singing.
“Ashley, are you in there?” I heard a voice calling and I opened. It was the whole group.
“Everyone gets nervous, Ashley, and we are also nervous but just visualize pessimistically and lets go out there and make some magic.”
We were finally called up to stage being the last group to come up. We were all in masks but mine was different. I made sure I visualized it all through, and when we finished, the others took their masks off but I didn’t.
“We chose 4 groups,” Mike said, Chris Brown’s manager. “We meet the groups again here on Saturday morning and others who won’t be coming back, we are really sorry. We have chosen 2 groups for girls and 2 for boys but we want 2 groups at the end, girls and boys. When I read your group, you come up starting with girls.”
“Give it up for the Smart Girls!”
This took me by surprise. It was Danny’s group, and I received a shock when they read The Panthers but it wasn’t more than the one on Danny’s face. We went up happily and for the boys, they read Aidan’s group and Billy’s group. Chris stood up to talk.
“I want to congratulate you all for coming this far and remember on Saturday it’s going to be different. The girls get on and battle and the group which gives up is out, the same for the boys because you guys actually tied up so we are not sure if we can judge you anymore. Thank you all for coming and see you this Saturday,” he concluded.
School is going well and I am managing my life as Ashley, Amy and mask girl at the same time and actually no one suspects that I can be the mask girl because I rarely talk. But I knew I had to handle Aidan’s problem of a tutor although he didn’t have the slightest idea that I knew about it.
“Hey Aidan, can we talk tonight?” I asked.
“Alright Ashley, we will chat. Hope your laptop isn’t sick.”
“What? That’s crazy dude,” I said and we all laughed and then parted but guess who appeared? Danny. But of course she wanted to know what I was talking about with Aidan, her beloved, who doesn’t even care about her.
“You really want to know? He told me that if I see you, I should give you this milkshake,” I said, and she fell for my prank. I had actually picked it up from the trash can when I saw her coming. I waited for her to take the last bit of it and I told her, and then left her with her ducklings.
“Your room looks big, beautiful and organized,” Aidan said.
“Thanks,” I said.
“By the way, what did you want to talk about?” he asked.
“I need you to be honest with me, please Aidan,” I said.
“I promise I’ll be honest,” he said.
“Do you have extra lessons?” I asked.
“Yeah, I do. But how would everyone look at me if they got to know about it?” he said.
“It’s ok, Aidan, but for how long is it going to be?”
“As long as I do well in the next test, it will be all over but I have no hope because all Tina does is blush and I really don’t understand,” he said.
“Maybe I can help,” I said.
“You think so?” he asked in relief.
“Yeah, I mean what are friends for anyways?” I said with a smile.
“Thanks. When do we start?” he said.
“Tomorrow. I usually use 25 minutes for lunch then spare the rest for a group discussion,” I said.
“Cool idea, see you soon and thanks a lot,” he said.
“Anytime.”
I switched off and went to bed.
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January 1, 2015
Happy New Year!
Thanks to a surplus of funds for Racheal's next term, I was able to send an additional $75 for Christmas gifts. Provia, Racheal, and the three others living with them (Sharon, Rozett and Prossy) were able to go to the market and purchase new dresses for a holiday pilgrimage to the Catholic Uganda Martyrs' Shrine in Namugongo (click here for the full report with photos). They are so grateful for your continued support, and I've included a couple of notes from them below. Here's to a blessed 2015 for all!
From Provia: "Thank you so much for the funds! I will make sure family receives Christmas this year. It's going to be a unique xmas because it's not a common practice to receive gifts from friends. Thanks for making me proud! If I had a way to send you at least something of Ugandan made I would. Tears of joy are rolling through my eyes right now. My small family is happy and they can't wait."
From Racheal: "Thank you so much for making us look beautiful! May you enter the New Year with all the favors and blessings!"
I continue to enjoy the occasional phone conversation with Provia and Racheal. It amazes me how upbeat and joyful they are whenever we talk. I have a lot to learn from their infectious spirit. Racheal loves to write stories...she's working on one now that's loosely based on her life, and I can't wait until it's finished. I'll be sure to share it with you, too. Racheal begins her next term in February (which is already paid for...thank you!) and we have already raised $125 toward her May term.
Your generosity warms my heart. Thanks for being a part of this journey. -Jess
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August 9, 2014
Dear Sponsors,
I am pleased to inform you that Rachael is fine and in good health. She is back home for a short holiday, which will take a month, then she will be going back to school next month on September 8.
Before going any further, allow me thank you for the continued support to Rachael’s school fees. I am grateful for your efforts and may God reward you abundantly and continue to bless you in your daily endeavors.
I am also pleased to inform you that she is doing well academically because she was able to stay in the top 35% of her class.
Allow me also to inform you that out of 18 terms/ semesters to be covered, she has only covered five semesters, which I can’t manage on my own without your support. I kindly therefore seek for your continued support. The list below is an outline of what is required of next term that will be beginning on 8th September 2014:
Tuition fees/all meals: 690,000 USH ($264)
Accommodation: 300,000 ($115)
Development fund: 70,000 ($27)
Building fund: 180,000 ($69)
Hair cutting: 2,000 ($1)
Caution money: 8,900 ($4)
Brushes/ brooms: 8,000 ($4)
Medical fees: 20,000 ($9)
Other fees: 75,000 ($29)
Total: 1,357,400 Ug ~ $522
The above information covers only school requirements without her necessities.
I don’t have a permanent job, but I work as a volunteer in the University where I assist lecturers in teaching. I am facilitated with a stipend of 900,000 Uganda shillings, equivalent of $360 per term, which cannot cover the whole fees. I use the money you contribute to cover the above and use my earnings to cover her school necessities. I must confess to you that sometimes I am left with nothing when she is going to school and yet I also have to survive. Being the only educated child in the family, I also have other dependents.
It is therefore that I need your support.
Thank you so much!
Blessings to you all!!
KESANDE PROVIA
on Behalf of
ACHOLA RACHEAL
_______________________
February 8, 2014
Dear supporters and friends,
Hope this message finds you well! Allow me to congratulate you for having completed the year 2013 regardless of whatever you went through, and wish you a prosperous 2014. To those who lost their loved ones, may the Lord continue blessing you and cover you with courage and strength.First and foremost, the aim of this letter is to extend my sincere gratefulness and appreciation toward the support you gave towards my daughter Achola Racheal. You managed to raise her school fees in time and she reported to school on the first day. Thank you so much!! She joined a new class which is form two and she is excited about the new class. And she is so grateful for your kind support.
Important to note: Thank you for putting trust in Jess Hoffert. Without him I could not be able to reach you.
Regarding myself, I did not finish my research of Masters in Hospitality and Tourism management as I had earlier promised due to circumstances beyond my control, meaning I did not graduate, but am working hard such that at least I submit it before May this year.
Finally, allow me once again thank you for the kind support you're rendering toward us and may the good Lord continue blessing you in whatever you do.
Thank you very much!!!
Yours Faithfully,
KESANDE PROVIA on behalf of Achola Racheal
______________________
December 11, 2013
In due respect, allow me salute you all in your different capacities. How are you and your families? What about your daily endeavors? May God bless all the works of your hands. Hope this letter finds you well!
Myself, am fine and Racheal too is fine, and generally Uganda is already in the moods of Christmas. Though with the big loss of the FATHER OF THE NATION; LATE NELSON MANDELA ( RIP).
It has been long since I last communicated with you. I apologize for keeping quiet for all this while.
UPDATE ON RACHEAL’S EDUCATION
Am happy to inform you that Rachael was promoted to form Two with an average of 75 and she got the 12th position out of 80 candidates. She is among the best students in her class. Thanks to you all who are enabling her future!
Her health is okay apart from her eyes and allergy which keep disturbing her. As far as her career is concerned, she is still focused but the challenge is that she wants a lot of materials and literature concerning psychiatry which I haven’t provided. She also wants me to connect her to a mentor in that area of psychiatry which is not easy for me. Then, alongside that, she likes writing poems still concerning her career and I hope one time she will send you her write ups after compiling them. So inspiring! Outside books, she loves swimming but she is still under training.
Her next term will begin next year on January 27th. That’s when she will be expected back to school. The school dues have been increased due to the fact that she is entering a new class with new requirements. She needs 1,300,000 Ugandan shillings which is approximately $600. So I kindly still need your support. Thank you in advance.
PROGRESS REPORT ABOUT MY EDUCATION
As I had told you last time that I was pursuing a Masters degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management, I wish to inform you that I have been unlucky. I could not meet the deadline of submitting my dissertation, thus I will miss next year's graduation. I have been working hard to finish but things could not work out well for me. But I promise you that I am not sleeping as am working tirelessly to finish, because my future opportunities depend on completion of that research. I need your prayers!
Lastly, I wish everybody in this festive season good health as we prepare to celebrate Christmas.
Merry Christmas and prosperous New Year!
Lots of love!
Provia.
____________________________
March 25, 2013
To all my supporters:
I greet you all in your respective capacities. How are you, your families and all your endeavors? I hope this letter finds you well! I am okay myself only that we are having a lot of rain in Uganda. But altogether it is a mixture of rain and sunshine.
I'm happy to inform you that I'm in the final semester of my studies. I will sit for the end of semester exams in May this year, so I'm working very hard to achieve that goal. It is not easy for me, most especially alongside work, because I teach in a far distant university on weekends (around 300 miles away). But very soon, I will be out of class as I mentioned above and I hope to stabilize.
I'm also pleased to share with you the current status of my daughter at school. Last week, on March 17, it was Racheal's visitation day. On visitation day, all parents are allowed to go to school and check on their children. She was very happy because we had missed each other for a month. She is in good condition and very active at school because I found her putting on a tag on her uniform “VOLUNTEER” meaning that she was helping parents to find their children. On top of that, she is in a school and church choir which I was happy about. Rachael told me that it has not been easy for her to adjust to a mixed school because previously she was in a single sex school. Though she is happy, she told me she is somehow challenged when it comes to the opposite sex.
At the time of the visitation, they had not done any tests or exams, but I spoke with her class teacher and she told me that Rachael is active in class. The other exciting bit of it, she is studying 17 subjects but she does not like history. But otherwise she is happy to be in a good and famous school. The school is ST. JOSEPHS NAGALAMA.
Most importantly, Rachael is very happy and thankful of the support you are giving towards her education and she promised me that she will never misuse that chance as it is one way of realizing her dreams of becoming a psychiatric doctor. There are so many children in Uganda who are not at school and she would not waste the given opportunity. Otherwise I'm very grateful for all sorts of support you are rendering towards my life and most especially my daughter's well being and education. Thank you very much and may the Almighty God keep blessing the work of your hands.
Yours faithfully,
KESANDE PROVIA