Tamika Kampini Mkumba

To everyone who has just missed a slot in the public university system, young woman Tamika Kampini Mkumba says: “don’t let this setback define your future. It’s natural to feel disappointed, but remember that there are numerous paths to success.”

She was once left out of the system herself in 2008 and again in 2009 when she tried the parallel programmes instead; and the disappointments plunged her straight into depression.

Stressed and depressed, she spent the entire year in 2009 looking for a place in private universities, and only got her break in 2010 when she was accepted into the Malawi Adventist University where she attained a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration and graduated in 2014 with distinction.

So, she now encourages others to take some time and reflect on their goals, passions, and interests in the face of such snags, and to consider alternative options like private universities just as she did or online courses, vocational training, or scholarships in other institutions.

“Nothing is impossible!” she says, adding: “seek support from family, friends, or mentors who can offer guidance and encouragement. Embrace this as an opportunity to discover new possibilities and strengths within yourself. Remember that setbacks can be stepping stones towards greater achievements, and with determination and hard work, you can still achieve your dreams.”

However, while admitting that her journey from denied entry into public universities was challenging, the young woman, now a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) notes that it was ultimately transformative.

The rejection, she says, though disheartening and disappointing, she refused to give up on her dreams.

Instead, she sought alternative paths and opportunities to pursue her education. She explored various online opportunities to enhance her skills and knowledge, which led her to attending different trainings in Europe and Africa.

During this time, she states that she learned the importance of resilience and adaptability.

“It taught me that setbacks are a natural part of life, and what truly matters is how we respond to them. Perseverance and the willingness to explore different avenues were crucial in shaping my journey,” she says.

Now the envy of many, she confesses that being awarded scholarships up to the PhD level is an incredible honour and testament to the hard work and dedication she has put into her academic pursuits.

“It fills me with gratitude and a sense of accomplishment. These scholarships have not only eased the financial burden of my education but have also provided me with opportunities to connect with brilliant minds in my field and access resources that enrich my learning experience,” says the mother of one.

Her inaugural scholarship was a four-week short course in Uganda and Kenya on writing for socio justice and storytelling, organised by the African Women Development Fund which was followed by the Young African Leadership Initiative (Yali) training in Pretoria.

Realising that the world is full of opportunities, she later applied for the master’s in international business and entrepreneurship (MIBE) programme at the University of Pavia in Italy under the Fund for Cooperation and Knowledge Scholarship.

While in Pavia, she received another scholarship for training at the University of Laspalm; an Erasmus Internship scholarship in Hungary; and a Double Degree scholarship to study at University of Szeged.

Soon after graduation, she was awarded a PhD scholarship by the African Union in the field of governance and regional integration to study in Cameroon.

While reading for her PhD, she was also awarded a scholarship by Learn Africa for a research programme at Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED).

And her latest scholarship is a research stay at the University of Granada in Spain through the Coimbra Group Scholarship Programme.

Looking ahead, her plans involve delving deeper into research and academia as she aspires to contribute to her field’s knowledge base and make a positive impact through her work.

Along with her academic pursuits, she aims to engage in community development projects.

“I plan to continue fostering meaningful relationships with mentors and peers, as well as inspiring and supporting others in their educational journeys. Overall, my goal is to lead a fulfilling life that combines my passion for research, education, and service to others,” explains the artist’s wife, who loves to read and write.

Asked what has made her the strong woman she is today, Kampini Mkumba cites several factors, including her family’s unwavering support and emphasis on education.

Furthermore, she explains that facing

 and overcoming obstacles during her journey, including rejections and setbacks, has taught her resilience and determination.

Apart from that, she says her experiences and interactions with diverse individuals have broadened her perspectives and fostered empathy.

“Additionally, the opportunities I have been fortunate enough to receive, such as scholarships and mentorship, have played a significant role in my personal and academic growth. My passion for lifelong learning and the desire to contribute positively to society have been driving forces in my journey too,” she says.

As someone who has lived it, she emphasizes the importance of perseverance, lifelong learning, and kindness, highlighting that life may present everyone with challenges, but it is essential to keep moving forward and to never lose sight of our dreams.

She further advises the public to embrace learning as a continuous journey, and be open to exploring diverse paths that can lead to personal and professional growth.

Most of all, the youthful lecturer highlights the need to practise empathy and compassion towards others, noting that everyone has unique struggles and triumphs in their lives.

“Together, we can create a more supportive and inclusive world. Let us celebrate each other’s successes and encourage one another to reach our fullest potentials,” she counsels.

But as a little girl growing up in Lumbadzi, she dreamed of challenging patriarchal society’s values and empowering young girls.

When she did not make the cut into public universities, she wanted to be a fierce advocate for breaking barriers to education and opportunities.

And as she grew older, her passion to make a positive impact on the lives of others only grew stronger, with a dream to create a ripple effect of change and help others nurture their dreams.

“I do one on one sessions with students who have not made it into the public universities. I also have an online group where I mentor others; and share materials and opportunities. I also do academic excellency talks, specifically to secondary school students,” she says.

Meanwhile, the young woman acknowledges that applying for scholarships can be a challenging process, and that rejections are a part of that journey, but she says it is essential not to be disheartened by rejection.

“Every rejection is an opportunity to learn and improve your application. Be persistent in seeking out different scholarship opportunities that align with your interests and qualifications.

“Tailor your applications to showcase your unique strengths, experiences, and aspirations. Seek feedback from mentors or scholarship advisers to enhance your applications. Stay committed to your goals, and with patience and determination, the right scholarship will come your way,” she says.