When Lyna Rajab was just 9 years old, she lost both of her parents. Left in the care of her elderly grandmother, she took on the responsibility of looking after her five younger siblings. Life became a daily struggle, but Lyna never let go of her dream to stay in school.

At 17, she started Form One at Msalura Community Day Secondary School. Her grandmother, determined to give her a chance, sold the family’s only goat to cover Lyna’s first term fees. That act of love spoke volumes; this family believed in education, even when they had next to nothing.

In a twist to her fate, during the second term of her school, the government’s second selection was selection was released, and she was selected to attend Salima Secondary School, one of the top schools in the district. But with no money for tuition or supplies, that opportunity was slipping through her fingers. That’s when the YES Initiative stepped in.

We saw Lyna’s drive and potential and knew we couldn’t let finances cut her journey short. Our Secondary School Tuition Support Program was launched, and she was the first student we supported. Through this support, Lyna was able to take her place at Salima Secondary, giving her the chance to chase the future she deserves.

Lyna’s story isn’t just about hardship; it’s about grit, sacrifice, and the power of giving someone a chance. At YESI, we’re committed to walking alongside students like Lyna, not just with financial help, but with encouragement, mentorship, and belief in their dreams.