Story perspectives

From Refugee to Scholar: $20M in Scholarships Secured

10/31/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Mary Maker recounts how education transformed her life, from a refugee camp to higher education.
Her story shows education’s power for refugee women despite overcrowded classrooms and limited resources.
Maker and peers founded Elimisha Kakuma, which has helped 47 students secure nearly $20 million in scholarships.
The Kakuma Empowerment Program mentors over 600 youths and shows education’s broader impact.
She calls for collective action to raise $15 million by 2028.

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Story summary

Mary Maker recounts how education transformed her life, from a refugee camp to higher education.
Her story shows education’s power for refugee women despite overcrowded classrooms and limited resources.
Maker and peers founded Elimisha Kakuma, which has helped 47 students secure nearly $20 million in scholarships.
The Kakuma Empowerment Program mentors over 600 youths and shows education’s broader impact.
She calls for collective action to raise $15 million by 2028.