Early Years & School Experience

Q: Can you tell us about yourself—your name, age, and where you’re from?
My name is Komutima Tungeumbo Mangundu. I’m 18 years old and from a small village called Onekwaya-West in northern Namibia.
Q: How did you first come to Joy to the World School? What do you remember about your first days?
I started at Joy to the World when I was 3 years old. My older siblings were already there, and I would follow them because I was so curious to see what school was like. Back then, there were no proper classrooms, but Sister Getrude made sure it was a warm place where we could learn.
Q: What was the school like when you started? How has it changed over the years?
In the beginning, we had very little — just a small space to gather and learn. But Sister Getrude worked so hard, step by step. Now there are real classrooms, a hostel, and so much more. It’s something we are all proud of.
Q: Do you have a favorite memory from your time at Joy to the World?
There are so many memories, but I’ll never forget the warm meals every day and the playground, where we made friends and just enjoyed being children. I also remember the visits from Mrs. Alison Royle and her team — they always brought something exciting, and we felt so special.
Q: Were there any teachers or subjects that inspired you?
All my teachers played a part in shaping me. I’m so grateful for their patience, kindness, and the lessons they taught — in class and in life.

Journey to University

Q: When did you first become interested in studying Pharmacy?
In high school, I chose science subjects — Biology, Physics, and Chemistry. Chemistry stood out because of the experiments and all there was to discover. That’s how I found out about Pharmacy. I liked the idea of working with medicines and helping people.
Q: Did you face any challenges along the way?
I wasn’t accepted into Pharmacy at first. It was painful and discouraging, but I didn’t give up. I enrolled in Chartered Accountancy to keep learning. That year taught me a lot — about finance and about university life. I applied again for Pharmacy and got in the second time. At Joy to the World, we were taught to trust God’s plan. That belief, along with support from my family and friends, kept me going.
Q: How did Joy to the World prepare you for this next step?
Joy to the World didn’t just teach subjects — they taught values like faith, hard work, and believing in yourself. That foundation helped me through tough times.
Q: Did you receive any support that helped you along the way?
The supporters of Joy to the World helped ease the financial burden on my parents. Without that support, I might not be here today, and I’m so grateful for everyone who believed in me.

Looking to the Future

Q: What are you most excited about as you start university?
I’m excited to learn more about Pharmacy and to do practical work in the labs. I’m looking forward to gaining skills to help people.
Q: What do you hope to do after you graduate?
I hope to find a good job where I can apply my skills. I also want to keep learning — education never really ends.
Q: How will your education impact your family and community?
It will mean a lot for my family and my village. I want to give back to those who supported me, and I hope my journey inspires other young people to work hard and believe in themselves.

Message to Supporters

Q: What would you like to say to the donors and supporters of Joy to the World?
A very big thank you! Your kindness made my education possible, and I don’t take it for granted. You gave me the chance to chase my dreams.
Q: What advice would you give to younger students at Joy to the World?
To my younger brothers and sisters — work hard, and never take your education for granted. Even when it’s difficult, keep pushing and believe in yourself. Education can open so many doors. And always keep praying, just like we were taught at Joy to the World. With faith, hard work, and determination, you can achieve anything.