Journey to University: Latifah

Latifah is one of our notable alumni who started with Action in Africa in 2010 at St. Johnson Primary School. After primary school, she enrolled at St. Edwards College Ggalamba for secondary education with support from Action in Africa. In 2016, she joined Light Secondary and Vocational School after securing AIA’s Secondary Scholarship. With support from our University Scholarship Program, she was able to attend Muteesa I Royal University for a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration.

Currently, she is working as an Accountant and Administrative Assistant at Kimaali Medical Chambers, where she is responsible for preparing financial statements, managing budgets, tracking income and expenses to ensure proper financial planning, recording transactions, and keeping accurate records of all financial activities. Her duties also include payroll management, tax filing, auditing, maintaining internal controls through reviewing financial systems to prevent errors or fraud, and bank reconciliation.

Latifah’s father died a long time ago when she was 11 years old, leaving the family struggling to survive in his absence. “When our father died we had to starve for some days. At times I missed exams due to unpaid school fees, scholastic materials were uncertain, and medication was also another struggle. I would sit down and think about my future, but it was painful watching my dreams fade and sink in the ocean,” she said.

She applauded AIA for introducing life-changing programs that transformed her community, especially the Scholarship Program, Primary Partnership Program, Nutrition Program, and Zumba and Yoga sessions through the After School Program. She revealed that engaging in these programs expanded her chances to earn scholarships until she graduated from university with full support from AIA. Latifah added that the programs were vital to her personal growth. “Guidance and counseling can't be excluded. It helped me a lot to avoid running astray, especially by that time when I was in my adolescence stage. The topics would prevent and protect me from dangers during holidays,” she added.

One of her favorite memories with Action in Africa was the day a group of visitors came to paint The Center’s walls with murals. She described it as a unique and exciting experience, as it was her first time engaging in such activities. “The atmosphere was full of laughter, teamwork, and connecting to each other. I remember feeling proud that I was part of the team that made The Center look charming. That day taught me the value of working together, regardless of where we come from. It was more than just painting, it was a moment of unity, joy, and creativity that I will always cherish,” said Latifah.

As an accountant, her aspirations are centered on continuous growth, professional development, and making a meaningful impact on the financial health of organizations. In addition to her Bachelor's in Business Administration, Latifah is graduating in the next few months with a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) qualification, an added advantage that is highly sought after by employers. “This certificate will present me as an expert in financial analysis, auditing, and strategic planning,” said Latifah.

Alongside building her career, she dreams of owning a business, using the financial knowledge and experience gained from her workplace. She hopes to start a successful business that will provide employment opportunities to fellow youth and support the community.

Lastly, she extended her appreciation to the AIA family: “I am immensely grateful for the scholarship support you have extended to me. It has made a significant impact on my academic and personal growth. Your investment in students like me speaks volumes about your commitment in transforming lives through education and community development. I am inspired to follow in your footsteps and give back to my community in the future. Thank you so much my dear donors. Your love for our community is unconditional, and your donations have not only impacted our lives but also our families.”