Beacons of Hope: A Heartfelt Tribute by Maria Nyirenda

In the realm of knowledge, where minds take flight,

A shining star emerged, a guiding light.

Bright Sparks Trust, a beacon of hope did bring,

Illuminating paths, for hearts that sing.

 

With grateful souls, we students gather round,

To express our thanks, for blessings unbound.

Tuition fees, transport allowances, a helping hand,

In secondary's crucible, you stood by our stand.

 

Like a steady anchor, in life's turbulent sea,

You held us fast, in our academic spree.

And now, as we soar, to tertiary's realm,

Your kindness follows, a perpetual helm.

 

Upkeeps and laptops, tools of our trade,

Empowering minds, for a brighter shade.

With every keystroke, our dreams take flight,

In the digital age, our futures ignite.

 

Oh, Bright Sparks Trust, Oh, Mars in cooperated , your generosity knows,

No bounds, no limits, only endless repose.

In the garden of knowledge, you've sown a seed,

Nurturing growth, in every student's need.

 

Like a master weaver, you've woven a tapestry fine,

Interlacing lives, with threads of hope divine.

Your benevolence, a river of gold,

Quenching thirst, in young hearts, forever to hold.

 

We, the beneficiaries, with humble hearts,

Thank you, dear patrons, for playing your parts.

In the symphony of life, you've struck a chord,

Harmonizing our futures, forever to be explored.

Student Story: Mahalla Munthali

Every Bright Spark Trust (BST) scholar’s story is one of absolute courage, determination and perseverance. A story that teaches us to dream big, to be grateful for every opportunity provided, to have a burning desire to succeed and to believe in oneself!

Our feature today is the inspiring story of 21 year old Mahalla Munthali (name changed). Her bright smile and pleasant demeanor further remind us of her extraordinary  journey to academic success, made possible by the generous donations from BST patrons.

Mahalla comes from a family of 6 children. Her mother was the sole bread winner of the family as her father suffered from a leg injury and was not able to walk . Farming helped put some basic food on the table, but even that, barely so. Mahalla pursued primary education as that is free in Malawi. ’While I was in standard 7 my mother told me to drop out from school so that I could be helping her with some farm work, I refused to drop out from school and I started crying in pain because I didn't want to leave school. I was believing in myself that if I can work hard and finish my school I can make a difference and help my mother financially’

Mahalla’s sister, who had just got married, took her to her house and helped her resume school. ‘I was learning although I was struggling financially but I took it as an advantage to work extra hard so that I can be selected to nation secondary. Although I had no hope for who would pay my school fee at the secondary level’ Mahallas concerns were valid, as secondary education in good schools are not funded by the Government and most of the deserving kids cannot afford to pay the high fees of the good private schools.

Her hard work paid off and she was selected to continue her education at Lilongwe Girls National secondary school. ‘I was happy for the results at the same time I was crying that who is going to pay my school fees. At that time my sister get divorced from his husband and she had nothing to support me’ 

Mahalla got through for a few months with congratulation gifts given by some friends as she was the only one to be selected to nation secondary school from her primary school- a big achievement in itself!. But the money was not enough to pay school fees, to buy uniform, transport and all requirements. 

I was just crying and my primary teacher called me and encouraged me that if I have a transport I should go join the school, and  there maybe I will find well wishers to pay my fees. I just used the congratulations money which I had for transport. First term it's when Bright sparks volunteers met me and agreed to start to support me’

When Bright sparks was sponsoring me by paying my school fees and gave me pocket money I was using pocket money wisely. I was learning my school happily and I was working very hard. The help I was getting from Bright sparks acts as a motivator because I had all hopes that I will finish my secondary school because my fees are being paid and I wasn't worried at all. I worked hard and during the last level in secondary school I did well. I got 16 points.’

Elated with her academic success, Mahalla was looking forward to continue her education and pursue her dreams. Her meeting with Alastair Child- founder for Bright Spark Trust was exactly gave her new confidence and belief in herself. She remembers that day vividly.

When Alastair came here in Malawi, he met us (Bright Sparks students) we were 4 of us. His visit really gave me hope. When I was struggling I felt like I am not important and I can't be valuable by anyone. I had low self esteem that no one can give me hope. Since at my clan there is no one who succeeded with school. So there is no one to encourage me concerning school.

It gave hope to my parents, since that day my parents believe in me that I will achieve my goals and they always encourage me concerning school. My parents used to say remember to work hard because you have people who are helping you.

Bright Sparks encouraged us to work hard. It was really giving me confidence that I will do it. I promised myself to do what you advised us and I took that advice personally. 

I feel loved and caring, this gives me a strong passion for helping others. I knew that when you're helpless and you have received this kind of love and caring. You work extra hard to be the best than ever. Since you feel honoured and loved’

We had a very funny day and a very interesting and unforgettable journey. On the way, I enjoyed the snacks and drinks. We ate our lunch to Chikho hotel. It was my first time eating expensive and delicious food. I had joy in my heart and it gives a hard working spirit. I always wanted to be the best in class. 

With such a good mentor backing her, Mahalla is now at Kamuzu University of Health sciences doing Bachelor of science in Nursing and midwifery. ‘ I believe in myself that with the help of Bright sparks. I will have my degree in Nursing and midwifery because you're there for me. 

Bright Spark Trust is helping me now by paying for my books, transport and other learning material. I am very thankful for this as Government only pays for my University fees’

Mahalla dreams of building an orphanage and helping deserving kids just like BST. She wants to give her family a nice comfortable life and wants to inspire many more girls like her to believe in their dreams!

Student Story: James Phiri

As the sun begins to set, the sky explodes into a canvas of orange,red and pink. 20 year old James Phiri (name changed)  quickens his pace, careful not to miss the only bus out of his village, located in Southern Malawi. The 16 hour arduous journey thereon, will bring him to the University of Mzuzu, where he is pursuing Bachelor of Education in Science.

 

This is a trip that he makes every quarter to put himself through college and to pursue his dreams of becoming a teacher one day or working for the World Food Program. Life has always been tough for James, and money barely enough for the family's daily needs. His parents are subsistence farmers and they live in a hut made of burnt and unburnt bricks, with a grass roof on their heads.

 

James was always interested in studies and Malawi's free primary education systems, gave him the perfect opportunity to fuel his knowledge. But as got selected into a good Government secondary school, his worries increased. 'I didn't know if I would be progressing with my studies because of the financial crisis. When I started Form1 at Blantyre Secondary school, fees was a major problem followed by basic needs. It was very difficult for me at that time, because I would go into class thinking about my fees , wondering who was going to pay for it! And this attitude led to a lot of mental stress'

 

In the beginning, some of James's friends, who were from affluent families, helped him with some basic needs and also lent him other things useful for school. But that would not get him far. And that was when he heard about the Bright Spark Trust. ' They told me that Bright Spark would pay my school fees and also assist in pocket money to be used for groceries, books, stationery, materials and transport. But they look for the most deserving and needy students, who can't afford to pay fees on their own'

 

James did not waste any time in filling up the necessary forms and prayed that he would be selected. His joy knew no bounds when he was counted in as one of the needy kids who would be embraced by the Bright Spark Family. This would mean that he could continue his education, without worrying about the fees and he would have help to buy books, stationery and other costs for his education. But he also knew that he had a responsibility to work hard and deliver consistent results. ' Life changed when Bright Spark kicked in and I was working hard knowing that this is the opportunity to go further with my studies and to achieve my goals. Fortunately I finished secondary school with a good 14 points and got selected into Mzuzu University'

 

With University aspirations kicking in, James's anxiety increased. 'I was worried because this is the stage where I would need a lot of money to use in academics, smart phone, laptop. I had come this far and was not willing to give up. Fortunately Bright Spark did not leave me alone. They agreed to pay for my fees as well as give some upkeep to use during the period of study. I use that money for food, groceries, registration, transport and other things.'

 

James is doing well at University. ' With Bright Sparks, I see my dreams rising up and my future will shine like a morning star. They are pushing me where I am going, that means I will keep on going until I find what I want in life. I thank my mentor and friend Alastair and Bright Spark from the bottom of my heart'

 

Bright Sparks Trust continues to help hundreds of deserving kids every year. Their model is unique in terms of depth and duration of assistance. This long term financial aid helps level the field and the kids can realize their fullest potential, breaking the cycle of poverty for themselves, assisting their families and villages, and potentially taking on influential roles in Malawian society.

Bright Sparks Launches Laptop Program to Empower Students

In a significant move to support the academic journey of its students, Bright Sparks has introduced a new laptop program designed to equip university students with the digital tools they need to succeed. The initiative underscores the organization's ongoing commitment to student success, aiming to bridge the digital divide and enhance educational outcomes.

The program, launched earlier this year, consists of two key components: laptop donations and financial assistance for laptop purchases. Through generous contributions from individuals and organizations, including a notable donation from Mars South Africa, Bright Sparks has been able to provide laptops to deserving students. In 2023, 17 Dell laptops were distributed to students in the 2023 cohort, those who have the longest years of study ahead of them.

For students in other cohorts, Bright Sparks is offering financial support, allowing them to purchase their own laptops. A total of 37 students were provided with the necessary funding after submitting the required documentation, ensuring that no student is left behind due to a lack of access to digital tools.

The laptop distribution event became a special occasion for students to reconnect, with many expressing their heartfelt appreciation for the opportunity. In addition to the traditional thank-yous, students created and shared video messages and poems to convey their gratitude. They expressed how the program has not only provided them with vital resources but has also given them the confidence to keep pace with their peers.

"The support from Bright Sparks and Mars Inc. is truly life-changing," said one student. "These laptops will enable us to access online resources, create important documents for submissions, and engage more effectively with audio-visual aids used in our courses."

The laptops are expected to be an invaluable tool for students, helping them with research, assignments, and projects—critical components of their university experience. Many students are particularly excited about using the laptops to access online platforms like Google, which will significantly enhance their ability to conduct independent research and academic studies.

Bright Sparks founder, Alastair, expressed his pride in the program's success. “We are thrilled to see the impact this program has had on our students. Ensuring that every Bright Sparks student has the tools they need to thrive academically is at the heart of what we do.”

A Step Toward Digital Equity

By providing access to laptops, Bright Sparks is leveling the playing field for students, ensuring they have the resources necessary for success in a digital-first academic environment. The program has already made a significant impact, and Bright Sparks remains dedicated to offering students the support they need to thrive in the digital age.

This initiative is just one of many ways that Bright Sparks continues to foster an environment of success, empowerment, and opportunity for its students.

Bright Sparks Trust Celebrates its 20th Anniversary

Dear Bright Sparks supporters!

Happy New Year! We are delighted to be writing to you at this moment as we have reached our 20th anniversary,. Congratulations to all involved in Bright Sparks Trust.

At this celebratory milestone, Bright Sparks would like to thank a few people who go above and beyond volunteering for Bright Sparks Trust

  • Our Malawi Management Team and helpers - Patrick, Arnold, Boston, Hendrix, Deborah, Sellah who carry out school audits and distribute cash transfers and laptops

  • Our volunteers - Lavanya, Dave and the team at Do Tank who are building an incredible web platform for university students to apply and manage their scholarships (my.brightsparkstrust.com)

  • Our laptop donation partner - Mars, Inc. South Africa business who provided 17 high quality refurbished laptops and shipped them to Malawi

  • Our current and former trustees - Shannon, Ben, Steve

Most of all, we would like to thank you for your continued support and donations. Your financial support is the lifeblood of Bright Sparks Trust. Thanks to you, we are currently paying the school fees of 107 bright but needy students at school (52 of them girls), we are providing additional financial assistance in the form of cash transfers direct to the students (and we are able to raise those in line with spiraling inflation), and we are awarding Book Prizes and Laptops to our students that make it to prestigious universities, currently 50 students being supported.

We have come a long way from humble beginnings when we started with 8 students in 2004. It fills us with pride that several of those students now serve on our Malawi Management Team, volunteering their time and talents to pay forwards their scholarships. Something special is happening, we are building a community and the ripples are turning into waves. We will never forget the day that one of our students was in danger, and our community kicked in, students diving out of classes to race to assistance after we spread the alarm on our student communication channels, and others providing much needed safe refuge and care in the aftermath. We have always said that we are small but mighty and we feel that at times such as those.

As a fully volunteer run organization, and with a focus on impact and operational rigor in our on the ground progam, we know that communications is not one of our strong points. This is why we are particularly grateful for your loyalty, your support keeps coming without much in return. Those of you that have been supporting for a while will know that one of the few things we do is share our annual report, which we enclose in attachment. Now, in addition, in an effort to take another step forwards on this anniversary, we are also starting a newsletter initiative thanks you to our latest volunteer Lavanya. Attached you will find stories from our students as well as insights into the impact of our new laptops progam for university students.

So, happy anniversary to YOU, for you are part of this very small and very powerful community. Just imagine where we might find ourselves in another 20 years from now? In the meantime, wishing you and your families the very best for 2025.

Kind regards
Alastair
Founder and Trustee
Bright Sparks Trust

Verification Mission 2019

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In November 2019, I traveled to Malawi on a verification trip, to assure the program is working as intended. It is hard to imagine anyone taking your donations from the hands of needy students, but nevertheless we operate with the assumption that our money will be targeted and we work to remove and verify against all risks.

One of the main risks we have identified is whether we are reaching the truly needy students. We gather a lot of in depth information on their backgrounds, what their homes are made of, if their parents are alive, what they do for a living and more. Is that information correct or are we being tricked into funding a better off student? We have rigorous processes to verify that is not the case. We take a random square root sample of all our current students in school and we visit their homes. We cross check the situation we find with the information we have on file and confirm the students really are those in need. This is hard and time intensive work and we have found over the years that many other organisations do not invest in this level of assurance rigor.

So with 73 scholarships funded, we set off to visit the homes of 8 students currently in school, and visited the home village of a further alumni who has already graduated and is working as a teacher. We used 2 different techniques, on one occasion collecting the students from school and travelling with them to their homes, and on another, navigating ourselves to their homes using the contact information we have in our databases.

It was with mixed emotions that we found in all cases our students come from extremely needy backgrounds. On the one hand we were satisfied to find that our processes are working, we are targeting the most needy of students. On the other hand, it was difficult to experience and understand the challenges our scholars and their families face.

In all cases the scholars came from remote rural areas, living in homes made from mud bricks and mostly grass roofs. I did not have the remotest doubt that without our help our scholars would not be able to afford to go to school. Yet they were all bright young boys and girls, full of potential, and many of them have grades and character that fills you with belief about what their future holds.

In one case, we could not leave without doing something about the situation we found. Clara´s mum lives alone in a derelict mud hut with no roof and a sack for a door. Vulnerable to local men, no land to grow food, she frequently goes to sleep on an empty stomach. In this case we had to act and paid for a roof and secure door to be constructed before we left.

So this trip left me with a heavy heart on the one hand, but on the other, pride and confidence that our systems and processes our working and your donations are reaching those truly in need.

Another Side of the World

Malawi is a truly beautiful country, its known as “the warm heart of Africa” and this is not just a strapline, it´s something you feel in the villages and in day to day life. But this saying, and the warm smiles that you find across the country, hide the truth of how tough life can be for some living here. At Bright Sparks we aim to break the cycle of severe poverty through the best education available, so we target the brightest boys and girls from the toughest backgrounds, and we support them at the best government schools in the country. Our aim is that they realize their fullest potential and we take on the barriers to them achieving it, from school fees, to money for additional needs, to mentoring and support on the journey.

Of the 36 students we are currently supporting:

3 are full orphans and 16 have lost one of their parents

25 come from a subsistence farming background

24 live in mud built huts with grass roofs

23 came 1st in their school in their Public School Leaving Certificate Examinations at the end of primary school, and 33 came in the top 5

The images below are taken from one of the villages where one of our Bright Sparks scholars is from. 

Patrick Chimzimu as a yound boy before his Bright Sparks Scholarship. Patrick is now a chartered accountant and works on Bright Sparks Malawi Management Team

Patrick Chimzimu as a yound boy before his Bright Sparks Scholarship. Patrick is now a chartered accountant and works on Bright Sparks Malawi Management Team

Where our journey begins

Where our journey begins

Subsistence living

Subsistence living

Typical Malawian village 

Typical Malawian village 

Collecting water

Collecting water

It´s a long road, but Bright Sparks is committed to the journey

It´s a long road, but Bright Sparks is committed to the journey

The First Spark

I´m standing at the front of a classroom packed with young Malawians, 2 to a desk, in their first year of Secondary School. It’s a boarding school with boys from all around the country. They are all looking at me, probably expecting that I know how to teach. I´ll not let on. I´m filling time, wondering where on earth the teacher is that I´m supposed to be observing. I guess he´s not coming. Its late 2004, and what I am unaware of is that Bright Sparks is about to begin. 

I am looking down at the 60+ names on the list of students I am supposed to be teaching, wondering why some of them aren´t here. Especially a couple of really bright ones, I can see their incredible exam results on the tattered dusty piece of paper I´ve been given.

“They´re not here sir, they´ve been sent home, they´re not coming back”.

A few days later I get a letter, hand delivered to my little mud brick home in the teachers housing area. It’s one of my students asking for help to pay his school fees so he doesn´t get sent home too. What do I do? I am living on a shoestring in Africa. Its bugging me that these bright young boys aren´t getting the chances I got. Just the chance to enjoy school and see what you can make of yourself. The first spark was ignited.

Set off to see the headmaster. Find out just how little fees are for a great education here, at one of the best national schools in the country. Email friends. Money coming in. Add it up, realize we can pay for 8 students. Back to the headmaster. Exam performance rankings in one hand, bursar´s list of missed fee payments in the other. Pick the brightest. Messages go out to the boys, some still in school, some back home in their village. Gather the boys, tell them friends from afar are going to pay their school fees. Huge smiles. Then tell them these new friends won´t leave them until they graduate from secondary school. Unforgettable moments. Write a contract, get the head and the students to sign it. Ask an Australian teacher to check the boys are not sent home once I´m gone. Bright Sparks is born.

Planning Bright Sparks Trust

Planning Bright Sparks Trust

10 years later to the day, I return to Malawi for the third time. As I exit the airport, a Doctor and Chartered Accountant are running towards me and embrace me and don´t let go. One of these young men was one of the boys who had been sent home back in 2004, a full orphan, no hope left. The other had been looking at me 10 years ago thinking I knew how to teach. They had come from the toughest corners of one of the poorest countries in the world, and here they were, professional and fine young men with a bright future. We left the airport together, the Bright Sparks Malawi Management Team. In the next 3 weeks we developed and signed Memorandums of Understanding with 3 of the best national schools in the country, we designed a process to identify the brightest children from the poorest backgrounds, we interviewed and selected 13 new Bright Sparks, we wrote our Operations Manual, we developed and signed Student Contracts so the students knew what support they had and what effort and performance we expected. We sat around camp fires under Baobab trees and agreed how this would work. We would work as volunteers. Our thanks to those that had provided us each with our education was to work to give others the opportunity we had enjoyed. We would focus on the neediest and the brightest. We spent many days and nights at Patrick´s village. I saw the changes that had happened as a result of Patrick´s career success. I saw the fertilizer stocks, the surplus foodstuffs, the old grass roofs replaced with shiny metal ones. We dreamed of how many children Bright Sparks could help, the many new friends we would find to support our cause, and the better Malawi that would come from having Bright Sparks in positions of influence in the future. It had taken us a decade, Bright Sparks was finally ready to grow.

Alastair Child - Founder and Director, Bright Sparks Trust