Alumni Spotlight

From Misunderstood Teen to Financial Powerhouse: A Story of Growth, Grit, and Giving Back

When he first stepped into the corridors of Vienna College, he carried more than just bags he carried assumptions. “People thought I was a thug,” he recalls with a laugh. “But I was just a quiet guy with culture shock and chains on my neck.”

Today, that young man is the Chief Financial Officer of St. Mary's International Academy and East Africa Pre and Primary School, a family-owned network of 17 schools in Tanzania. At just over a year into his tenure as CFO, he's already helped clear 70% of a $1 million debt and led the expansion by acquiring land for a new campus.

But his success didn’t come overnight. “I describe myself as a person of progress,” he says. “Every day, I try to be a better version of myself. That’s what drives me small, achievable steps.”

That journey of incremental growth started at Vienna College. As head boy, he took responsibility beyond the usual duties, even teaching classes in economics and business studies when teachers were unavailable. “That built my character,” he says. “It instilled in me the value of leadership and commitment.”

Vienna, he says, also showed him humanity. After suffering an accident that required surgery, the school stepped in to cover the costs. “I was a foreign student without insurance. They paid out of pocket. I will never forget that.”

He wears multiple hats now CFO, father, and real estate developer. His proudest title yet? Dad. “Becoming a father to my son, Junior, has been the greatest blessing. There’s nothing like having your mini-me running around.”

Still, his memories of high school remain vivid—from trips to western Uganda and school sports to the friendships that shaped him. And he’s bringing that spirit into a new chapter: helping build the Vienna College alumni network.

“This alumni community is important,” he says. “It’s not just about reconnecting, it’s about mentorship and partnerships. Someone you studied with might be a minister or even president one day.”

If he could go back and give advice to his younger self? “Take it easy. Enjoy the moments. I was too serious.”

And if there’s one mantra he lives by, it’s this: “Only you can save you.”

“You decide to wake up, go to work, give your best. You make the decision to keep going even when it’s hard.”

From being doubted to being driven, his story is a powerful reminder that progress is never perfect but always possible.