A Journey of Resilience and Purpose

Margaret Njeri

In the heart of Mukuru, one of Nairobi’s bustling neighborhoods, Margaret Njeri’s journey from uncertainty to purpose is a testament to her resilience and unwavering drive. Raised in a family where making ends meet was a daily challenge, Margaret's dreams were once clouded by financial barriers and societal expectations. However, with determination, she chose a different path—one that would not only transform her life but also inspire those around her.

In 2022, Margaret became a part of the AGF Scholarship Program, just as she completed her degree. The scholarship was a beacon of hope, arriving at a time when she was questioning how to move forward. It was through AGF that Margaret discovered her potential. Working as a project accountant for Mukuru Promotional Centre, she mastered donor reporting and received an award for her excellence in financial management. The scholarship opened doors for her to attend workshops that strengthened her leadership and communication skills, giving her the courage to present in front of people and lead teams with confidence.

Despite her successes, Margaret's path was not without its hardships. Earlier this year, her father was diagnosed with a terminal illness, adding the burden of monthly hospital visits to her already demanding life. She found herself caring for her younger sister, who is still in school, while helping her parents, whose business had suffered a downturn. Through it all, Margaret stood strong, seeking solace in the support of friends and understanding colleagues who gave her the time she needed to care for her father. Even with these personal struggles, she refused to let her work suffer.

Financially, life has been tough. With a modest salary and mounting responsibilities, Margaret had to make sacrifices. She studied for her CPA classes on her phone or at work late into the night, often leaving only after 8:30 p.m., and traveling home by motorbike. But it was this struggle that fueled her ambition. Margaret dreams of being an all-rounded accountant, a woman who can rise above her circumstances and help her family escape the life they’ve known.

Yet Margaret's aspirations extend beyond her own success. She sees herself as a beacon of hope for her community. Having faced significant academic challenges, she plans to sponsor students through their education, just as AGF did for her. She wants to show others in Mukuru that it’s possible to rise above their circumstances and achieve their dreams.

Margaret’s story is one of resilience, leadership, and hope. Though she hasn't yet decided if she will pursue entrepreneurship, she continues to explore new opportunities and dreams of becoming a leader in her field. Her involvement in AGF has equipped her with the skills, confidence, and courage to continue her journey. For Margaret, the future is filled with possibilities, and her story is far from over. With her unyielding spirit, she is ready to tackle whatever challenges come her way, not just for herself but for the community she is determined to uplift.