A Covenant Mercies Story: Merab

In January 2024, Mapalo Scholar Merab Naturinda graduated with honors from Makarere University in Uganda with a bachelor’s degree in applied statistics. But Merab’s life wasn’t always characterized by scholarly achievements and university opportunities. In fact, Merab’s early childhood could more aptly be described as destitute and hopeless. 

Merab lost her father at a young age, and she and her two brothers grew up in a small rural village near Kiburara, Uganda. Her mother’s main source of income was working in their neighbor’s gardens, hoping to earn enough money to keep her children in school.

Through the encouragement of Pastor Moses Nkwatsibwe and others in their church, Merab and her family never lost the faith that God was with them in their daily struggle, and that He had a loving purpose for their lives. Eventually, Merab was sponsored through Covenant Mercies, a day she describes as “my first happiest moment ever in my life.”

Merab proved to be an excellent student who worked hard and excelled in her studies. She performed at the top of her high school class, but her crowning achievement came when the test results from her college entrance exams were returned. Merab had earned the highest grade in math and economics for all students in the entire nation of Uganda.

Based on her high academic performance and her strong Christian character, Merab was awarded one of our Mapalo Scholarships and soon began university studies at Makarere University in Kampala, Uganda. After graduating in 2024, she secured an entry-level position as a Junior Data Analyst with an Investment Agribusiness organization.

While Merab’s words of gratitude and blessing are directed largely toward her sponsor, we hope they will be an encouragement to all Covenant Mercies sponsors and supporters:

“I remember the day vividly, when I first heard about the Sponsorship Program. I was filled with both excitement and nervousness. The idea of studying in a bigger school, with the support of a sponsor, felt like a dream I dared not hope for. But guess what? It came into reality. The impact of this sponsorship on my life has been so positive. For the first time, I had access to quality education, school supplies, and the opportunity to attend a prestigious university in the city. I was also paired with a mentor through David Mayinja who guided me through the complexities of academic life and personal growth. 

 

My journey of faith played a crucial role in this transformation. I have always had a deep relationship with Christ through the guidance of Pastor Moses, finding strength in my faith. It was through prayer and trust in God that I maneuvered over challenges along the way. My faith reminded me that I was not alone and that every challenge was a step towards my greater purpose. My personal dream is to make a positive impact on my community and inspire other young people to pursue their education despite the odds.

 

I am forever grateful to Covenant Mercies and the Mapalo Scholarship for the unwavering support and for helping me turn my dreams into reality. I hope to continue this legacy of giving and inspire others to support the next generation of dreamers. 

 

I have a lot that I would tell my sponsor if I met him or her today. My prayer is that the Almighty God who never slumbers would meet them at the point of their needs and fill their cups to never run dry. My family and I are forever grateful for this opportunity that changed my dreams into reality!”