By Sr. Josephine Gakii, PHJC
The Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ (PHJC) Sisters helped transform the life of Lindah Makena, who,
at just four years old, was living in difficult circumstances with her elderly, sickly and bedridden
grandfather. Through their intervention, Lindah gained access to education, overcame academic
challenges and is now pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Education at Mount Kenya University.
Lindah’s journey began when I was a young Sister, barely one month after making my First Vows. I
had been assigned to one of our communities, where I served as an untrained teacher, assisting pupils
with their school assignments, cleanliness, guidance and counselling.
One morning, after celebrating Mass, I was greeting parishioners as was my usual practice when a tall
lady approached me and shared the story of a little girl living with her elderly grandfather. Their living
conditions were difficult, and meeting their basic needs had become a daily struggle.
After informing our Community Leader, we arranged to visit the family that same evening. I
accompanied the Sister because I could interpret from English into Kimeru, our local language.
What we found was more heartbreaking than we had imagined. Lindah, barely four years old, lived
with her grandfather, who was approximately seventy-six years old and bedridden. They shared a
small bed, and despite her tender age, Lindah helped fetch water and firewood and prepare the fire so
that her grandfather could cook whatever little food they could afford.
Despite these challenges, Lindah welcomed us with a beautiful smile, repeatedly calling, “Sister,
Sister!” She held our hands and led us towards her grandfather. Her warmth and innocence revealed a
child whose circumstances were difficult but whose potential deserved an opportunity to flourish.
Recognizing the family’s vulnerability, our Community Leader entrusted me with the responsibility of
helping Lindah begin school. I was asked to ensure that she had a uniform, books, shoes and other
basic requirements so that she could start the following week.
Through this intervention, Lindah began her educational journey at St. Francis of Assisi Day and
Boarding School. What might have appeared to be a small act of assistance became the beginning of a
life-changing opportunity.
The Sisters provided Lindah with more than access to a classroom. They offered guidance,
encouragement, spiritual formation, discipline and a supportive environment in which she could grow
academically and personally. Their commitment extended beyond teaching subjects to nurturing her
confidence, character and sense of belonging.
However, Lindah’s academic journey was not without challenges. During her early years, she often
ranked among the last pupils in her class. Her progress required patience, persistence and additional
support. Rather than allowing her early academic performance to define her abilities, the Sisters
continued to encourage her and provide remedial assistance.
Gradually, Lindah began to improve. Her confidence grew, and her academic performance changed
significantly. Eventually, she became one of the top five pupils in her class.
Her progress demonstrated the importance of giving children the support and encouragement they
need to develop their abilities. With patience and continued assistance, Lindah began to discover her
potential and make significant progress in her education.
After completing Class Eight, Lindah proceeded to Materi Girls Secondary School, where she
continued her education with determination. She completed her secondary education with a B+ grade,
an achievement that reflected her hard work and perseverance.
Today, she is pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Education at Mount Kenya University. Her journey
from a vulnerable little girl to a university student illustrates the possibilities that can emerge when
children who might otherwise be left behind are given access to education.
Beyond her academic achievements, Lindah has developed greater independence and confidence in
shaping her future. One of the most significant developments in her life is her ability to support her
grandfather and contribute to her family.
The little girl who once depended on the generosity of others is now in a position to support someone
who has been central to her life. She also willingly supports the ministries of the Poor Handmaids of
Jesus Christ Sisters whenever there is a need.
This transition from receiving assistance to contributing to the well-being of others reflects the wider
impact of empowerment. When a child receives an opportunity to develop her abilities, the benefits
can extend beyond the individual to family and community life.
Lindah’s experience highlights the importance of investing in children facing social and economic
challenges. Poverty can limit access to education, healthcare, adequate nutrition and other essential
opportunities. However, a child’s circumstances should never be mistaken for a measure of her
abilities or potential.
Her journey also demonstrates that educational support goes beyond providing school fees and
learning materials. Children need encouragement, patient guidance, a sense of belonging and people
who believe in them, even when progress is slow.
The continued support of the Sisters helped Lindah persevere through academic difficulties and
discover her abilities. The contribution of other Good Samaritans along her journey further
demonstrates that transforming a life is often a shared responsibility.
As Lindah pursues her degree in Education, her experiences provide a foundation for her future. Her
journey offers an opportunity to appreciate the challenges learners face and the difference that a caring
teacher can make in a child’s life.
Her story also challenges communities, religious institutions, educational stakeholders and well-
wishers to identify vulnerable children and create opportunities for them to learn and thrive.
Sometimes, transformation begins with noticing a child’s circumstances, responding with compassion
and taking practical steps to support her education.
Lindah’s journey continues, and her future holds possibilities that may once have seemed difficult to
imagine. Her progress from a challenging home situation to university education illustrates how access
to education, combined with commitment and perseverance, can open new doors.
Her story reminds us that children should not be defined by poverty, family circumstances or early
academic struggles. Every child deserves the opportunity to discover her potential and develop the
abilities needed to build a meaningful future.
What began with a visit to a humble home has become a story of hope and empowerment through
education. Lindah’s life demonstrates how compassion, opportunity and perseverance can help change
a person’s circumstances.
Educating a child is more than preparing her for examinations or awarding her a qualification. It is an
investment in her dignity, independence and ability to contribute to society. Lindah’s journey reminds
us that a difficult beginning does not have to determine a child’s destination.