At The Other Side Foundation School, we often say that education is not just about learning facts—it is about shaping lives, opening doors, and creating ripples of hope that extend far beyond the classroom. Today, we are privileged to share a story that embodies this truth so beautifully. It is the story of two of our own—once learners, later bursary students, now volunteer teachers—who have come back home to serve and inspire.

From Learners to Leaders

Years ago, Cecilia and Samson joined The Other Side Foundation School as bright-eyed learners. Like many of their peers, they came from challenging backgrounds, where opportunities were limited, but potential was limitless. Through our bursary program, they received support that carried them through primary school, into secondary school, and all the way to college.

The journey was not without its challenges. There were moments of doubt, times of struggle, and many obstacles along the way. But with determination, guidance, and the steady support of the school community, they pressed on. Their stories are living proof that when opportunity meets hard work, transformation happens.

Returning as Volunteers

Now, as they prepare for their graduation this October, Cecilia and Samson have returned to The Other Side Foundation School in a new role—that of volunteer teachers. For one month, Cecilia is assisting with the Grade 4 class, while Samson is helping with the Grade 5 learners.

This act of service is more than just filling a teaching role. It is an expression of gratitude and a desire to give back. They could have chosen to spend this time waiting idly for graduation, but instead, they decided to invest their knowledge and energy in the next generation.

Why Their Presence Matters

Their presence in the classroom carries a weight that goes far beyond the lessons of the day. Our Grade 4 and 5 learners look at Cecilia and Samson and see possibility. They see a young man and woman who once walked the same path, studied in the same rooms, and faced the same struggles.

This kind of role modeling is powerful. It bridges the gap between aspiration and reality. It tells our learners, ‘If Cecilia and Samson did it, I can do it too.’ It shows them that the dreams they carry are not out of reach.

In a world where many children from vulnerable backgrounds often feel that success is for others, not for them, Cecilia and Samson stand as living evidence that success belongs to anyone who dares to try, works hard, and takes the opportunities that come their way.

A Cycle of Giving Back

The return of these former students highlights a beautiful cycle of giving back. Years ago, Cecilia and Samson received the gift of education, care, and opportunity through The Other Side Foundation. Today, they are giving that gift forward, sharing their time, knowledge, and passion with those who are now where they once were.

This is what true empowerment looks like. It is not just about achieving personal success, but about using that success to lift others. It is about closing the circle—transforming what you received into something greater by passing it on.

Inspiration for the Future

As October approaches, we eagerly await Cecilia and Samson’s graduation, knowing that this is just the beginning of their journey. Their future careers will carry them into new spaces, but wherever they go, they will carry with them the values and lessons they learned here: gratitude, service, and the belief that education can change lives.

For The Other Side Foundation, their story is a reminder of why our mission matters. Every book given, every lesson taught, every meal shared, every bursary granted—it all adds up to moments like this, when the seeds planted years ago bloom into something beautiful.

A Message to Our Learners

To our Grade 4 and 5 learners, and indeed to all our students, the message is clear: success is possible. No matter your starting point, no matter your struggles, you can rise, you can achieve, and you can one day stand where Cecilia and Samson stand. And when you do, you too will have the chance to give back, to inspire, and to make a difference.

At The Other Side Foundation School, we are proud of their journey, humbled by their service, and inspired by their example. Their story belongs not just to them, but to all of us—because when one learner rises, the whole community rises with them.