Journey to University: Sheilah
My name is Sheila Nabaale, and I am incredibly honored to be part of the 2026 Internship Cohort at Action in Africa. Being awarded this slot is more than just a professional milestone, it is a vital opportunity for me to grow, learn, and contribute to an organization that changes lives. I am eager to fix myself in the AIA culture, sharpen my skills, and prepare for the next chapter of my academic and professional journey. Thank you, Action in Africa, for this incredible vote of confidence.
As a member of the AIA family, I am witnessing my aspirations turn into reality. I am preparing to enroll at Makerere University to study Procurement and Supply Chain Management, a field I am passionate about for its potential to drive economic growth in my community. I am determined to use this education as a tool to uplift my family’s circumstances and build a successful professional future.
I am a long-term beneficiary of Action in Africa, having joined the program during my primary education at Brightway Nursery and Primary School. I consider myself exceptionally fortunate to have received such sustained mentorship. Specifically, the guidance from Aunt Sarah since my early years provided the stability I needed to succeed. The subsequent secondary support was an incredible extra provision that further solidified my path toward higher education.
Through the Secondary Scholarship Program, I have received a high-quality education at prestigious institutions like Riverside High School Mbazzi. Beyond academics, this opportunity has equipped me with essential leadership competencies, fostering a deep sense of self-confidence and mastery in public speaking and personal expression.
My leadership journey began in Senior One, where I served as club president. Head Girl and Dormitory President roles I held with pride until graduation from Riverside High School. However, it was the career guidance and life skills programs at the AIA Center that truly refined my potential. Without the Secondary Scholarship, continuing my education would have been a nearly impossible struggle for my mother. Having lost my father at a young age, the financial burden of school fees was simply too heavy for h to carry alone. Today, thanks to this support, I stand ready and equipped for university.
The impact of Action in Africa extends far beyond my scholarship. It has truly transformed my entire family. My mother now serves as the Porridge Chef at the Center, and her income has become a vital pillar for our family’s growth, ensuring there is always food on our table. In the absence of my father, AIA has stepped in to provide the stability and care we were missing. This support has finally relieved my mother of the heavy burden she carried alone for so long. We are truly blessed to have you in our community. We were hopeless, now hopeful with big dreams.
