Peninah’s Story: How your support is changing the lives of real students

In 2016, Apili Peninah joined Global Leaders Primary School (GLP), bringing with her a story all too familiar in northern Uganda: a bright young student full of potential, yet stifled by circumstances beyond her control. Before Global Leaders, Peninah was struggling at a local Amolatar Primary School, her potential dimmed by inadequate educational resources and personal challenges.

Breaking Barriers

Right from the start, Peninah’s intelligence was evident to our whole team at GLP. Despite her struggles with basic literacy, her quick understanding and analytical skills shone through in all of her classwork. But intelligence alone isn’t enough when you're fighting against a tide of financial hardship and lack of access to basic needs at home, which was Peninah's reality.

A Turning Point

Peninah visits her mom at home during holiday break from school

Global Leaders Primary School, supported by Far Away Friends, became Peninah’s turning point. Despite her family’s inability to consistently afford school fees and the personal challenges that kept her from attending school regularly, we stepped in. We ensured that Peninah stayed in school, equipped with everything she needed to succeed. This wasn’t just about keeping her in class; it was about giving her the chance to transform her potential into performance and provide her with the tools she needed to succeed.

Remarkable Results

And succeed she did!! By the national primary leaving examinations (PLE) in 2018, Peninah wasn’t just performing well; she was leading her class and the entire district of Amolatar. Scoring a first grade (8 points) on her exams, Peninah became a testament to what’s possible when potential meets opportunity. Her success earned her a half bursary scholarship at Makerere High School Migadde for her O’ level education, setting her on the path toward her dream of becoming an engineer.

The Impact of Your Support

Peninah's story is a vivid illustration of the impact Far Away Friends and Global Leaders Primary School makes on real lives. It’s proof that with the right support, students can overcome significant barriers to achieve their dreams. Peninah’s journey from struggling student to top performer and aspiring engineer is a direct result of the educational opportunities and support system provided by our programs and, importantly, YOU, our donors.

Looking Forward

As Peninah awaits her final national examination results in 2024, her future as an engineer looks bright. Her success story is a powerful reminder of our mission's impact and the potential within each student we support.

This is the success of Far Away Friends and Global Leaders Primary School. It’s not just about providing education; it’s about changing lives, one student at a time. Peninah’s story is your impact in action. Thank you for making this possible!