Receiving the news that I had been selected for the scholarship was an incredible feeling words can express for real. For years, I had applied for different scholarships and opportunities without success, so when I finally got the news, my first thought was, “Finally, it happened.” It made me reflect on all the previous applications, rejections, and lessons along the way. Looking back, I realized that every setback was preparing me for that moment. The scholarship opened a new chapter of learning, growth, and global engagement that I had always hoped to be part of.
The mentorship and guidance I received played a huge role in that journey. Beyond helping me strengthen my application, it gave me confidence in myself and my abilities. Sometimes we have the knowledge, the skills, and the experience, but we don’t always know how to use them or how to position them in a way that truly reflects our story. For me, everything was already there, my skills, my experience, and my vision, but I struggled with how to arrange it and present it clearly. Mentorship helped me connect the dots, structure my story, and paint the full picture in a way that was compelling and helped me secure the scholarship. Having someone who believed in my potential, challenged me to improve, and provided direction made a significant difference.
My message to aspiring African young leaders is simple: never underestimate the power of your story, your experiences, and the impact you can create. Rejections can be discouraging, but they do not define your future. Keep applying, keep learning, and keep showing up. Often, the “NO’s” are preparing you for a better opportunity and helping you grow stronger along the way. Your time will come. Stay persistent, seek mentorship, believe in yourself, and trust that the right opportunity will align with your purpose when the moment is right.
Junior Kavishe
MINDS Scholar/ University of Cape Town (UCT), South Africa