Sylvia: Gratitude for the journey
Today, I am grateful not only for the education I received at Gashora but for the entire journey. It’s a journey that continues to shape me, as I’m sure it shapes all of us. And that’s why we’re here tonight—because the work Gashora does, the work that you all support, is so much bigger than just one person’s journey. It’s about empowering the next generation of young women to dream big, to challenge the status quo, and to lead with purpose and passion.
-Sylvia
This November 2024, alumnae, partners, friends, and donors CAME TOGETHER TO CELEBRATE SHE WILL RISE, OUR ANNUAL FUNDRAISING EVENT. WE WERE PRIVILEGED TO HEAR FROM SYLVIA, A GASHORA ALUMNA FROM THE CLASS OF 2022. PLEASE READ HER INSPIRING SPEECH, WHICH IS A TESTAMENT TO THE IMPACT OF YOUR SUPPORT ON OUR MISSION. WE ARE TRULY GRATEFUL FOR YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS AND LOOK FORWARD TO YOUR CONTINUED INVOLVEMENT.
My name is Sylvia Agatako. I am a Gashora alumni of the class of 2022, and I am currently a junior at Washington and Lee University studying Computer Science with a minor in Poverty and Human Capability Studies.
When I look back on my time at Gashora, I am filled with so many emotions—gratitude, nostalgia, awe at how far we’ve come.
But tonight, more than anything, I am here to express my deep, heartfelt gratitude for the journey.
I would not have believed you if you had told me three years ago that I’d be giving this speech at a fundraising event. I couldn’t have predicted that my journey would lead me to this moment, standing before you all.
But that’s the beauty of a journey—it’s unpredictable and full of challenges, triumphs, and moments of profound growth.
When I reflect on my years at Gashora, I am reminded of how the experience was more than just an education—it was a foundation. It was the first time I was exposed to an environment that dared to challenge the status quo.
At Gashora, we were encouraged to think beyond the classroom—to push boundaries, explore new ideas, and question the world around us. The school’s commitment to a whole-girl education shaped me in ways I never expected. It wasn’t just about academics; it was about developing our minds, bodies, leadership, creativity, and sense of community.
I remember the late-night study sessions in Dorm B when we’d huddle together, working tirelessly to revise papers and prepare for exams. The matron would ask us to study quietly, but the determination was overwhelming. Those nights taught me the importance of hard work, perseverance, and being part of something bigger than myself.
Gashora introduced me to a truly holistic curriculum. From leadership development to entrepreneurship, from the arts to academics, it felt like Gashora was a liberal arts college in its own right—except, of course, without the sociology and anthropology classes! But seriously, Gashora nurtured my intellectual curiosity and allowed me to explore various subjects and interests.
I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge the incredible educators who helped shape my journey. These were the individuals who not only imparted knowledge but also instilled in me the values of critical thinking, empathy, and resilience. They were the ones who saw potential in us before we saw it in ourselves. And they relentlessly pushed us to rise to the challenges before us, even when we didn’t think we could.
And then, of course, there were the friendships. The bonds we formed with our classmates, dorm mates, and teachers were like no other. I remember moments with friends like Ficat and Santo—sitting at the back of the computer lab, locked in on college searches, helping each other refine our personal statements, dreaming about the future, and trying to imagine where life might take us. Those were moments of growth, dreaming, and finding strength in each other.
I grew up in a family where gratitude was always at the heart of everything we did—gratitude to God, our parents, our educators, and one another. Saying "thank you" was simply part of our daily rhythm. But it’s only now, as I reflect on my time at Gashora, that I truly understand the significance of gratitude. It isn't just about saying “thank you”; it’s about recognizing the value of every single step in your journey—the challenges, the triumphs, the people who shape you along the way.
Every late-night study session, every hard-earned grade, every conversation with a teacher or a friend—all of those moments contributed to who I am today.
Looking back, I realize that Gashora wasn’t preparing me for college— it was preparing me for life. I learned how to be a creative problem solver, lead with compassion, and be a part of a community that strives to improve the world. The tools to dream big and the courage to chase those dreams.
Today, I am grateful not only for the education I received at Gashora but for the entire journey. It’s a journey that continues to shape me, as I’m sure it shapes all of us. And that’s why we’re here tonight—because the work Gashora does, the work that you all support, is so much bigger than just one person’s journey. It’s about empowering the next generation of young women to dream big, to challenge the status quo, and to lead with purpose and passion.
So, to my fellow alums, the current Gashora girls, the faculty and staff who continue to inspire and challenge, and all of you who support this incredible school—I thank you.
Thank you for being part of this journey.
Thank you for your belief in the power of education, in the power of women, and in the power of gratitude
