Quote: “Education is the most powerful weapon that can be used to fight poverty.” -Yvonne

Yvonne is a 15-year-old Luhya girl from Nambale, Busia County, and will graduate from Daraja with the Class of 2028. She comes from Syekunya, a small village where she lives in a two-room mud house with both her parents and four sisters. Her family faces financial challenges, and Yvonne sometimes goes days with only one meal. Her village is also affected by issues such as early pregnancies, substance abuse, domestic violence, and limited access to basic necessities.

Despite these hardships, Yvonne has remained committed to her education. In primary school, she served as a dining hall prefect and a Christian Union (CU) leader. In her free time, she enjoys playing football, dancing, and singing. 

Yvonne dreams of becoming a sign language teacher and opening a children’s home. She previously helped care for her blind neighbor and is passionate about supporting people with disabilities and other vulnerable members of her community. She describes Daraja as a home of hope where she truly feels seen, loved, and empowered.