Jude, a Ugandan-born teenager, was forced to flee his home due to an extremely tough family situation. Late one night, he ran away and climbed into the back of a carrier truck. When he woke up the next morning, he found himself in an unfamiliar town in Kenya, where he knew no one and didn't even speak the local language.
However, Jude quickly made friends with other street children, who helped him learn Swahili despite their broken English. When he joined Milele he finally had the opportunity to attend school and receive an education.
At first, it wasn't easy for Jude. He struggled with Swahili, which was his most difficult subject. But he didn't let that hold him back. Through incredible determination and hard work, he began to excel in his studies and eventually graduated from one of the best high schools in Kenya.
In fact, Jude not only graduated, but he also ranked in the top 0.1% in his final KCSE exam (equivalent to the SAT) in December 2022. Now, he's taking computer classes as he prepares to apply for university. His dream is to study mechatronics, electrical engineering, or astrophysics at some of the best universities in Kenya or Uganda, with the ultimate goal of pursuing higher education in the US.
Jude's story is a testament to his incredible resilience, perseverance, and hard work. Despite facing enormous challenges, he refused to give up on his dreams, and his success is a testament to his unwavering determination to thrive.
Watch Jude's story here.
Watch how Milele celebrated his triumph and inspired other street children like him here.