Finding Myself: The EFAC Workshop Experience

By Eileenhope Achieng, EFAC Scholar Class of 2025

She came for the certificate and reconnecting with friends, stayed for a little more, including the food, but left with a brand-new dream! Eileenhope’s Bridge-to-College (B2C) journey is one that sounds familiar to most EFAC scholars. That’s where transformation begins.

EFAC is one of the best things that has ever happened to me. Every time I received an invitation letter for a workshop while in high school, I felt an overwhelming sense of excitement - it was a chance to learn something new and reconnect with my friends. Being the only child of a single mother, I wasn't exposed to much outside my small circle. Life happened within the confines of our four walls for as long as I can remember. This made me quite introverted, so the workshops have always been a breath of fresh air, filled with fun activities and meaningful interactions.

When I first read the invitation letter for the 2025 Bridge to College (B2C) workshop, I expected a simple training on computer basics, culminating in a certificate. Given that I had taken computer studies in high school, I assumed it would be a smooth ride. My mind was more focused on the other activities we’d engage in, and honestly, I was also looking forward to the delicious meals. Beyond that, I had a silent wish—I hoped to receive a laptop. Owning one always felt like an impossible dream due to the high cost, but the thought that EFAC might provide us with one filled me with hope. What I didn’t expect, however, was just how transformative this workshop would be.

Eileenhope making a presentation of her portfolio, with a laptop she had received at the EFAC Bridge-to-College 2025 Workshop.

I arrived with a fixed mindset: I was going to study medicine, no question about it. My family had already helped me research universities that offered nursing, and we had even made calls to confirm requirements. Everything was set; all I needed was for the university portal to open. I just wanted to make my mother and relatives proud because they had always dreamed of me becoming a nurse.

In the first week, Madam Beth approached me and asked what I wanted to be. With confidence, I told her, "A nurse." But when she asked about my grade, I hesitated. "A B plain," I answered. She gently informed me that pursuing a medical course with that grade would be possible but difficult. She encouraged me to explore other options, but I was determined. I even showed her my research, proving that many institutions in Kenya offered many pathways into medicine. That same day, I stood in front of my peers and encouraged them not to let anyone steer them away from their passion. I boldly declared that I was willing to start at the diploma level and work my way up to becoming a cardiologist, no matter how long it took. Little did I know that my own beliefs were about to be challenged.

EFAC’s Director of Programs Beth Wokabi leads students through a Goal Setting Session with Eileenhope at the Centre

Then came Peak Performance and Dr. Bright Gameli. After his session, something inside me shifted. For the first time, I allowed myself to truly evaluate what I wanted beyond family expectations. I realized how much I loved computers, how much I enjoyed exploring websites. Compared to nursing, this was where I felt free and fulfilled. And just like that, in a matter of days, my entire world changed - I decided to pursue Computer Science. It was surreal. Just a few days before, I had stood confidently, advocating for medicine, yet here I was, completely transformed. Looking back, I can’t help but laugh at myself. I had been preaching one thing but was now walking a completely different path. But I had grown. The workshop had given me a new perspective, a growth mindset that allowed me to embrace change.

Eileenhope appreciated by Dr. Bright Gameli (in yellow) during the EFAC Bridge-to-College 2025 Workshop

My biggest worry, however, was how to face my family. How would I tell them I had abandoned my childhood dream? Maxwell Ochieng, an EFAC alumnus and mentor, gave me the encouragement I needed. He told me to trust myself, to prove to anyone who doubted me that I had made the right choice. And with that, I found the courage to move forward.

Growing up alone had made me hesitant to share my thoughts for fear of judgment. But then there was Eric Malavi—he never let me hide in the background. He would call on me to share my thoughts, pushing me out of my comfort zone. At first, it was difficult, but his enthusiasm made it impossible to say no. Before I knew it, I was speaking up, giving my opinions freely, even in front of a camera! It was something I never imagined myself doing, and yet, there I was!

This workshop exceeded my expectations in ways I never imagined. I grew in confidence, made incredible friends, and learned so much—from teamwork and leadership to practical skills like designing posters on Canva. I always thought people used Publisher, and I could never figure out why mine looked different. Now, I get it!

From the mentors' support to the fun activities - the Kahoot games, sports, aerobics, balloon games, talent night, dinner night, and alumni sessions - everything was planned to perfection. We were not just given information; we were guided on how to navigate the challenges ahead as we transitioned to campus life. EFAC truly cares about us, and their impact is beyond words. If I could, I would relive my B2C workshop experience over and over again. 

If I were to write about everything EFAC has done for me, I’d probably end up writing a book without realizing it. They have given me more than I could ever ask for, and for that, I am endlessly grateful.

God bless the EFAC family.