DWC 100 Women: Emily Mjomba, Hopewell Charitable Schools Kenya
It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men. -F. Douglas
My name is Emily Mjomba, and my journey is one of courage, resilience, and unwavering determination. Like many women in my culture, I spent much of my life supporting my family from behind the scenes. My husband, a visionary leader with a heart for the underserved, founded a charity high school to provide affordable—and often free—education to children from impoverished and marginalized communities. His work was a lifeline, offering hope and opportunity to young people who otherwise would have been left without a future.
Then, in December 2021, my world was shattered. My husband, only 47 years old, lost his battle with COVID-19. His passing was devastating, leaving me not only to grieve but also to step into the daunting role he left behind. Suddenly, I found myself responsible for leading the very institution he had built—a responsibility I had never imagined carrying.
The challenges were immense. I had to navigate the complexities of running a school, defend it from those who sought to take advantage of the transition and fight to keep it financially afloat. Longtime donors considered withdrawing their support, and persuading them to stay became an uphill battle.
Amid this turmoil, I made a bold decision—one that would change the course of my life. I enrolled in a degree program in Education. At 44, the thought of returning to school was intimidating, but I knew it was necessary to lead with wisdom and honour my husband’s legacy. My goal is to complete my degree by the time I turn 48, all while balancing motherhood, my studies, and the daily demands of running a school.
It has been anything but easy. The road is filled with obstacles, yet through it all, my faith in God has been my anchor. I draw strength from His promise in 2 Timothy 1:7-9, which reminds us that we are not given a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind. This faith, coupled with the knowledge that we are transforming lives through education, fuels my perseverance.
This story is not just about struggle—it is about triumph over adversity. If you are a widow, facing loss, or standing before what seems like an impossible challenge, I want you to know that you are stronger than you realize.
Every challenge is an opportunity to grow. Even in the darkest moments, there is light ahead. Hold onto your faith, embrace your strength, and let your story become a beacon of hope for others.