Undergraduate Degree: Bachelor of Commerce
University: Makerere University
A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Makerere University, Rebecca’s journey to this milestone has been one of resilience and determination, overcoming numerous challenges along the way.
Overcoming Adversity in her Childhood
Rebecca was born and raised in a low-income household as one of 13 children, she experienced financial hardships that often left her family without basic necessities. Despite these challenges, her parents instilled in her a love for learning and a strong work ethic, which became the foundation for her determination to succeed. Accessing education was a struggle; she walked long distances to school, often without proper clothing or shoes. To support her family while pursuing her studies, she took on multiple part-time jobs, such as gardening, demonstrating resilience and resourcefulness.
Overcoming adversity taught her to navigate challenges, adapt, and emerge stronger. The support she received from the SIMA Impact Foundation instilled in her a profound sense of gratitude and appreciation for the opportunities provided, shaping her into someone who values hard work and perseverance. Completing a bachelor’s degree in commerce required immense dedication, further solidifying these qualities as core aspects of her character.
Her journey has been deeply influenced by the unwavering support of her loved ones, her community, and role models who guided and inspired her. She is motivated by a desire to give back to her community and help others who face similar challenges and by a relentless pursuit of excellence in her future career. She says, “My humble beginnings and financial challenges have motivated me to work towards creating a better life for myself and my loved ones.”
The SIMA Impact Foundation Scholarship Program
The SIMA Impact Foundation scholarship has been transformative, enabling her to pursue her academic goals without the burden of financial stress. It alleviated her fear of being unable to afford education, allowing her to focus fully on her studies. “The scholarship also instilled in me a sense of gratitude and responsibility. I feel motivated to give back to my community”, she says. She feels empowered by the support and is eager to positively impact the world as she continues her journey.
Her Thoughts on Impact Investing
A significant insight that has shaped her perspective on impact investing is the understanding that financial returns and social impact can coexist. Through her studies, she has explored various impact investing strategies, such as socially responsible investing and impact venture capital. At the same time, her community involvement has emphasized the importance of engaging with local stakeholders, understanding their needs, and co-creating solutions. “This experience has taught me that impact investing is not just about investing in companies or projects but also about empowering communities and promoting sustainable development,” she says.
Supporting students from Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia is vital for the future of impact investing as they bring diverse perspectives and valuable local knowledge, enhancing the effectiveness of investment strategies in addressing social, economic, and environmental challenges. These students often possess a strong entrepreneurial spirit, enabling them to develop innovative solutions to pressing global issues like climate change and sustainable development. She says, “It will also help cultivate a new generation of impact-investing leaders who are equipped to drive positive change in their community. Historically, these regions have been underrepresented in the impact investing space, so supporting students from these areas can help address this imbalance.”
Closing Remarks
The SIMA Impact Foundation scholarship has been a transformative blessing, enabling her to overcome financial challenges and pursue her education, shaping a brighter future. Beyond financial support, it serves as a vote of confidence, validating her dreams and empowering her to become a changemaker equipped to drive sustainable impact in her community. “I’m forever grateful to the SIMA Impact Foundation for believing in me and investing in my potential,” she says. Rebecca is inspired to give back, creating a ripple effect of kindness and impact that will inspire future generations.
Rebecca expresses profound gratitude to the SIMA Impact Foundation for its unwavering support and commitment to empowering students. “The SIMA Impact Foundation’s work extends far beyond providing scholarship. You’re inspiring a ripple effect of kindness, compassion, and impact that will resonate throughout our communities and the world at large,” she says. Rebecca commends the Foundation’s dedication and wishes it continued success. She emphasizes the lasting impact of its efforts and the inspiration it provides to others to join the journey toward a more just and sustainable future.
