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Being a Mastercard Foundation Scholar means belonging to a community of multi-cultural and innovative young African leaders determined to make a difference. For me, it also meant an opportunity to study at a prestigious Ivy League Canadian university that I wouldn’t otherwise afford. From a young age, I wanted to experience studying in a new country and with a different culture and becoming a Mastercard Foundation Scholar gave me that, it did come with some cultural shock though.  

Despite the cultural shocks that came with studying and living in a new country, I was and still am proud to have been part of the Mastercard Foundations Scholars community at ±«ÓãÖ±²¥. The mentorship, friendships that turned into family, support and guidance from the advisors helped me grow as an individual and strengthened my resilience. Getting awarded the scholarship did not just have an impact on me individually but my family as well. For my brothers, it gave them motivation that they could as well gain similar opportunities.  

At an individual level, it was an affirmation that I could indeed achieve what I set my mind to. My experiences at ±«ÓãÖ±²¥ improved my ability to adapt to new environments and situations, assertiveness and developing a growth mindset. As a child, I always wanted to work for the United Nations and for a while the opportunity felt out of reach. With support from the Mastercard Foundation Transitions Program at ±«ÓãÖ±²¥, I had the opportunity to work at the United Nations as a Youth and Inclusion Expert in Thailand. I recognize that being a Mastercard Foundation Scholar is a privilege that most seek but only a few attain and so every day, I am filled with gratitude.  

By 2030, I hope more brilliant and talented young people in Africa, and across the globe can equally benefit from the Mastercard Foundation Scholars program, access the quality education required for the world of work. I am excited to have graduated with a Master of Education in Educational Psychology, a program I am happily using to pay it ±«ÓãÖ±²¥ by teaching young Indigenous Canadians in the Cree community of Whapmagoostui. I challenge other Mastercard Foundation Scholars to find opportunities to pay it ±«ÓãÖ±²¥. 

Hope Zimba (Zambia)
Mastercard Foundation Scholar (2019 – 2021), Master of Education in Educational Psychology