John & Violet: Twins who Turned Tragedy into Triumph

John and Violet are twins, born on 4th January 2006 in Mabondeni Village, Kiminini Sub-County, Trans-Nzoia County. Their father passed away in 2002, and their mother later died in 2010. After losing both parents, the twins were taken in by their elder sister, who earned a living by selling vegetables at Kiminini market.

Despite her determination, life was extremely difficult. The little income she made from selling vegetables and doing casual jobs was barely enough to meet their basic needs. Many times, the family went without food. The sister often left the twins at home while she searched for work, leaving them hungry and unattended. Clothing and healthcare were luxuries they could not afford.

School attendance was irregular because she could not pay school fees or buy books. The children were frequently sent home, and their education was at risk of ending altogether.

Their case was later referred to the Children’s Department, which in turn contacted Baba Nyumbani. After an assessment revealed the severity of their situation, John and Violet were admitted to Baba Nyumbani in 2012. At that time, both were in Grade 1 at Kiminini Primary School.

Upon admission, John was happy and excited. After enduring so much hardship, he was finally in a place where he felt safe and cared for. He could now enjoy nutritious meals, a stable home environment, and loving caregivers. Though his academic performance was initially poor due to lost school time, he quickly caught up through accelerated learning. Life had changed for the better — the pain of watching his sister struggle was finally behind him.

Today, John is a university student at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), studying Bachelor of Science - Development Studies. He hopes to use his skills to support his family and help educate children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds like his own.

Violet, on the other hand, was an exceptional student. She emerged as the top candidate in the 2020 K.C.P.E. exams at Baba Nyumbani. She is currently studying Bachelor of Education (Arts), at Murang'a University of Science and Technology. She hopes to one day relieve her sister of financial struggles and support her nieces and nephews through school.

Their sister remains deeply grateful for the support provided by Baba Nyumbani, often moved to tears when she reflects on how far her siblings have come. To her, it is nothing short of God’s work.

From the depths of loss to the heights of hope, John and Violet's journey stands as a testament to resilience and the power of compassion. Once two children left orphaned and uncertain of tomorrow, they were lifted by the loving arms of Baba Nyumbani and government stakeholders that believed in their potential. Through care, education, and unwavering support, they transformed their pain into purpose. Today, as they step into their first year of university, they carry not only their dreams but also the legacy of kindness that changed their lives — a shining reminder that with love and opportunity, tragedy can indeed become triumph.

**Names changed to protect privacy of the youth**