From the classroom to creating opportunities for others

In 2026, AVSI Foundation marks 40 years of partnership in Kenya (1986 - 2026). Among the six stories we have chosen to tell in occasion of the anniversary celebration, Virginia’s journey illustrates the long-term impact of accompanying a child through education. From primary school to entrepreneurship, her experience shows how sustained support can help open new possibilities for the future.

" From 2001 to 2009, I was never sent home because of unpaid school fees. AVSI paid them in full and on time, which meant I could concentrate on my studies.

My name is Virginia Wanjiku Mugo. My journey with AVSI began in 2001, when I was in Class Four. I came from a family of ten, and my elderly parents struggled to meet our needs. At the time, I did not know whether I would continue beyond primary school.

AVSI provided exercise books, textbooks and tuition. That support helped me do well in the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education examination and secure a place in secondary school. "

" During school holidays, we went to AVSI’s offices for letter-writing sessions and recreational activities. Staff made time to speak with us individually and encourage us. I still remember a picnic at Paradise Lost.

I particularly remember Madam Joyce, my social worker. She visited our home during the holidays to check on us and see how we were doing. Having someone follow my progress was an important part of the support I received. "

" After secondary school, I took a computer course at St. Kizito Vocational Training Institute in Roysambu. It gave me a foundation for further study: in 2011, I joined a public university under government sponsorship to study Computer Technology. I graduated in 2015.

I then worked on contracts with several organisations before starting my own business in 2019.

My business sources arrowroots, sweet potatoes, yams, bananas and plantains from farmers in central Kenya and supplies supermarkets and hotels in Nairobi. Working directly with farmers has helped me understand their work and the challenges they face. "

" Today, I am working towards establishing an initiative to support farmers, particularly in Murang’a County, through plantain farming.

The focus would be on access to quality planting materials, practical knowledge and reliable markets: three areas where I see opportunities to help farmers improve their livelihoods.

This next step connects with my own experience. Support at a particular point in my education helped me continue studying, gain skills and enter working life. Now, I want to put what I have learned to use in creating opportunities for others. "

Virginia’s experience shows why continuity matters in education. School fees and learning materials helped her remain in school, while regular contact with her educator meant that someone followed her progress and stayed connected with her family.

This is the approach of AVSI’s Distance Support Program, established in Kenya in 1997: accompanying children over time, responding to their changing needs and supporting the families they grow up in. Through regular visits at home and at school, trained social workers identify difficulties and work with families to address them. Support for parents and caregivers also helps strengthen the conditions in which children can learn and develop.

Looking ahead, AVSI will continue to build on this approach in Kenya, working with families, schools and local partners to help children stay in education and prepare for further learning and work. Our commitment is to combine sustained educational support with stronger family capacity, so that children can develop their skills and make informed choices about their futures.

To discover the other stories collected for 40th anniversary of AVSI in Kenya visit the dedicated page.