LILIAN SEWE
MASTERS STUDENT
Before joining VRF101, I had struggled with my research journey for several years. I kept shifting from one idea to another without making any real progress, and I lacked the confidence and motivation to even get started. When I first heard about VRF101, I felt a sense of hope, like help was finally within reach. Becoming part of this vibrant community of research experts and passionate learners gave me the direction I had been longing for. In moments when I felt lost, I held onto the assurance found in Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a future and a hope” (NIV). These words became more meaningful as I began to see a path forming through the support I received.
Today, I am proud to say that I have a clear research topic and I’m actively working on my proposal. Though I’m still progressing, the transformation has been incredible, moving from a place of near-giving up to confidently defending my ideas before a panel of academicians. VRF101 has restored my confidence and strengthened my belief that I can complete my master’s degree. With the guidance of our dedicated patron, Dr. Simon Obwatho, and the encouragement from fellow students, I now envision a future where I pursue my PhD, God willing. I often reflect on Paulo Freire’s powerful words: “Education does not change the world. Education changes people. People change the world” (Freire, 1970). This journey has changed me, and that is already changing my world.