August 4, 2025
CHRISTIAN MZENA
My name is Christian Mzena, and my transformative journey with UWEZO PROGRAM began in 2018. At the time, I was a student at Kurasini Secondary School, where I served as Chairperson of the UWEZO CLUB. Under my leadership, the school achieved great milestones in UWEZO PROGRAM, earning the Silver Trophy in three consecutive years—placing 12th in 2018, 14th in 2019, and 17th in 2020. These awards were highly competitive, with over 200 schools from the Dar es Salaam and Pwani regions participating each year. For me, these victories were more than just trophies—they were a foundation that launched my journey as a young, visionary leader passionate about community transformation.
UWEZO PROGRAM provided me with a platform to engage in diverse youth empowerment projects. I worked hand in hand with fellow students, learning to turn challenges into opportunities, and deepening my commitment to leadership with purpose. In 2019, I was elected Head Prefect at Kurasini Secondary School, a role that further sharpened my leadership abilities and strengthened my belief in youth-driven change.
After completing Form Four in 2020, I was honored to be selected by Great Hope Foundation to serve as the District Coordinator for Mkuranga District. During this period, I was also recognized among the Outstanding Volunteers—a humbling moment that affirmed the impact of my contribution. That same year, I returned to Kurasini as a volunteer teacher for three months, guiding students both academically and personally. It was a season of giving back and investing in others, just as others had once invested in me.
In 2021, I joined Kibiti High School for my A-level studies. My passion for UWEZO PROGRAM did not waver; instead, it grew stronger. I helped expand the club’s reach at Kibiti and led the school to even greater heights in UWEZO AWARD Projects—securing 3rd place in 2022 and clinching 1st place in 2023. These accomplishments earned me a Certificate of Academic Excellence from the school in recognition of my leadership and impact through the UWEZO CLUB.
Through every step of this journey, I’ve learned the importance of unity, selfless service, bold leadership, and the courage to seize opportunities. After my A-levels in 2023, I returned to volunteer once more—this time as the District Coordinator for Kigamboni—coordinating UWEZO PROGRAM activities across several schools, and mentoring the next wave of young changemakers.
Later in 2023, I enrolled at the Institute of Finance Management (IFM) to begin my undergraduate studies. Guided by the same spirit of leadership that the Uwezo Program nurtured in me, I campaigned and was elected President of the IFM Students of Economics and Finance Association (ISEFA) for the 2024/2025 academic year.
Looking back, I am filled with gratitude. Great Hope Foundation and the UWWEZO PROGRAM have not only shaped my journey—they have shaped my identity. I am who I am today because someone believed in me and gave me a platform to lead, to serve, and to rise.
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