Benjamin Mbuya’s story exemplifies the transformative power of education, support, and determination. Growing up in a family with meager resources in Kenya, Benjamin’s journey is marked by resilience and a deep appreciation for the opportunities he received.
The beginning of his educational journey
Mbuya began his educational journey at St. Dominic’s Bukna Primary School, excelling and earning his Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education. However, financial constraints nearly derailed his academic aspirations.
“I got an opportunity to progress with my high school, but due to school fee challenges, I could hardly manage to get to the school I was selected to attend,” he said.
Obstacles encountered and overcome
In 2014, Mbuya’s life changed when he was introduced to Our Lady of Grace School. He fondly remembers his first interaction with the school’s social worker, who was instrumental in his selection process. Sr. Maria Casiraghi, the foundation’s administrator, further bolstered this initial support.
“She took me through understanding where I was coming from and posed the question of where I intended to go in life,” Mbuya shares. This personalized approach ensured all his educational and personal needs were met.
Boarding at Our Lady of Grace High School in 2015 provided Mbuya with an ideal study environment. The community spirit at the school and the support of Our Lady of Grace Foundation taught him the value of sharing, caring, and support. This nurturing environment allowed Benjamin to thrive academically and personally, contrasting sharply with the challenges he faced earlier.
Another bump in the road, overcome
However, Mbuya’s journey was not without setbacks. The closure of Our Lady of Grace High School before his final year could have been a major stumbling block. Instead, the foundation’s continued support enabled him to complete his high school education at Ramba Boys High School. With this support, he excelled and was selected to pursue a degree in Radiography at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology.
Striving for excellence
Mbuya’s undergraduate studies were a turning point, solidifying his passion for radiotherapy, a field that deeply resonated with him.
“Courses in radiation physics, oncology, and advanced imaging techniques provided me with a solid foundation in the theoretical and practical aspects of radiotherapy,” he explained. His clinical placements were particularly transformative, allowing him to witness firsthand the impact of radiotherapy on patient outcomes.
A highlight of Mbuya’s academic journey was his involvement in a research project focused on optimizing radiation dose delivery. This experience ignited his interest in research and advancements in radiotherapy to improve patient care. In December 2023, he was selected as valedictorian of his graduating class.
A passion to serve and give back
Mbuya is committed to furthering his expertise through a master’s program. He hopes to become a leader in radiotherapy, exploring new modalities and integrating emerging technologies in clinical practice. He is also passionate about patient advocacy and education, aiming to combine his technical expertise with strong interpersonal skills to provide holistic care.
His journey is not just about personal achievement; it is also about giving back. He expresses a strong desire to be part of the Our Lady of Grace School Foundation in the future, helping others achieve their dreams. “This could not be possible without the support of people who have touched my life so dearly,” Mbuya says, expressing his heartfelt gratitude to all who have been part of his journey.
Mbuya Benjamin’s journey is a story of resilience, gratitude, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference. His success is a testament to the support he received from Our Lady of Grace School, its supporters, his mentors, and well-wishers.
Today, Our Lady of Grace School is a haven of educational opportunity and support and of nurturing and caring for underserved children – many of them orphans – in grades pre-K through 8. Our support of OLG made possible by your purchases of Saint Basil coffee and donations enables these children to become Benjamin’s – to get on a pathway to a better life! Thank you!