The Creation of The Kaombe Relief Fund
In 2022, Mambeya, a retired government secondary school headmaster and active community leader, recognized a critical gap in the education system. Many students who failed their Form 3 and Form 4 exams (equivalant to high school juniors and seniors in the US) were left without opportunities to continue their education or secure a good job. Determined to address this need, Mambeya wanted to create a private secondary school specifically for these students. With his leadership and a $10,000 grant from our founders, Shaina and Brian, he was able to establish Kaombe Private Secondary School and give these students a second chance. A year later, the Kaombe Relief Fund was officially established to sustain and expand the school’s impact.
Kaombe Private Secondary School
Established in 2022
Mambeya identified land in Ntchisi Boma with old buildings that could be refurbished and submitted a proposal to renovate the structures, build latrines, and hire staff. The renovations were completed and students began classes in 2023.
In 2024, Kaombe Private Secondary School celebrated its first graduating class of Form 4 students, marking a milestone in the school's journey. To commemorate the occasion, Shaina and Brian returned to Malawi with their children, reuniting with Mambeya and witnessing the deep impact of their collaboration.
The community came together in a joyous celebration, with over 400 people attending, including former students who expressed their gratitude through gifts of maize and a live chicken. Traditional dances and songs filled the air, embodying the spirit of unity and achievement that this long-term partnership had fostered. This project stands as a testament to how strong relationships, perseverance, and even modest funding can create lasting change, providing "hope" and opportunity to students who would have otherwise been left behind.
