Mainess was a young parent, carrying the weight of being a widow while struggling to provide for her four children, two of whom are part of the sponsorship program at Ipalo Christian School (ICS). Life was not easy: resources were scarce, opportunities limited, and the challenges of raising children alone were overwhelming. Yet her story took a remarkable turn when she encountered the sponsorship program at ICS.
ICS has always been committed to uplifting underprivileged families through education. The sponsorship program was designed not only to support needy children, but also to empower parents by bridging the literacy gap. Through this program parents were enrolled in classes to sit for their end of primary school National Exams (Grade 7). With determination and perseverance, Mainess passed her exams, joining many other parents who had also succeeded.
After completing Grade 7, Mainess continued her studies and successfully passed the first stage of secondary education when she completed her Grade 9 National Exams. During her years of study Mainess assisted at the ICS agricultural plot in various areas and played a vital role managing the chicken breeding program. After completing Grade 9, Mainess was given the opportunity to attend the Don Bosco College Agricultural Science Program, from which she graduated with credits, equipping herself with practical knowledge that could transform her life.
Even before joining the ICS Adult Education Program, Mainess had been running small ventures to support her family – from the time she was given a small business grant by TNA Foundation in 2014 to establish a chicken breeding business at home. Recognizing her hard work and commitment, ICS recently employed Mainess as assistant manager in the agriculture section – which allows her to apply her training and inspire others with her story. Her journey from student to leader is a witness to ICS’s vision: empowering individuals to rise above their circumstances and bring changes to their community.
Today, Mainess has become a beacon of hope for other parents navigating the challenges of parenthood and poverty. Her testimony is clear: “Do not give up, no matter your situation.” She encourages fellow parents, reminding them that challenges are not the end of the road, but steppingstones to greater achievements. Mainess’s success story is not hers alone – it is shared with the sponsors and supporters of ICS whose generosity made it possible. Their altruistic work is visible in her life and in the lives of many others who have been transformed. Her journey is proof that with support, determination, and faith, ordinary people can achieve the extraordinary.
