How does a boy from a Refugee Camp end up in Canada?

Story contributed by Jason McBride, Head of College

In times of uncertainty, the need for bold, compassionate leadership has never been greater. Recently, we came across a story from Manu, a first-year student, whose life has been profoundly impacted by donor support.

“I did not grow up dreaming of studying abroad, because dreams like that never belonged to someone like me, a Congolese refugee in Uganda, trapped in a reality where survival overshadowed hope. My childhood was marked by war, loss, and suffering. When I found out about UWC, it felt like a joke. A refugee like me? From a camp where dreams are luxuries we cannot afford? No one believed in me, not even my teachers. But something inside me refused to let go. I sold my bicycle, my goat, everything I had, to afford the journey to the capital for the interview.

That night, I slept on the street, terrified, unsure if I was making the biggest mistake of my life. In the morning, I walked 6 kilometres to a place I had never been, acting like I belonged among students who had never known the kind of hunger I carried in my bones. I kept my story to myself, afraid that if they knew the full truth, they would turn me away. Then, two days later, the impossible happened. I was chosen. I was going to Pearson College. I still struggle to believe it. How does a boy from Nakivale Refugee Camp end up in Canada? How does someone who was once invisible become seen, valued, and supported?

Pearson is not just a school for me, it is my second chance at life. It is the family I lost, the warmth I never had, the community that finally tells me, “You matter.” It is where my dreams are not only allowed but encouraged. Yet, even as I sit here, thousands of miles from home, my heart aches for my family. My mother, my siblings, still trapped in the same suffering I escaped. But now, I have a purpose. This scholarship is not just for me, it is for them. It is the beginning of a story where I do not just survive, I rise. And one day, I will make sure my family and my refugee community does too.”

This is what your donation to the Scholarship Fund makes possible. Emmanuel is just one of the 203 brilliant students attending Pearson College this year—each one demonstrating passion, resilience, and the drive to create a more peaceful and sustainable world.

Your generosity makes their education—and the future they are building for themselves and for all of us—possible.

Will you make a special one-time gift today?

The world is changing profoundly, even in the last few weeks. On a daily basis, in real time, we are seeing the impact of misinformation, polarization, and greed. More than ever, we need to equip the next generation of courageous young people who will rise above division, lead with compassion and respect, and relentlessly pursue peace. This spring, we aim to raise $50,000 to help bridge the gap for a partial scholarship— supporting one more student like Emmanuel. Will you help us reach this goal? Your gift today ensures that future young leaders will have the skills and values to lead with purpose in our increasingly uncertain world.

Thank you,