Women of Vienna: Encouragement in Small Moments

Encouragement in Small Moments

Miss Bernice 

For Kemigisha Phyllis Martha, the memory of Miss Bernice is inseparable from the warmth of her smile.

“Miss Bernice used to smile at me all the time. Her smile made me happy and made me feel so loved.”

Despite her busy schedule, Miss Bernice always found time to connect.

“She would talk to me, guide, mentor, and counsel me. We would sit in a quiet room and chat, especially during lunch breaks. It felt like a sister talking to me.”

That connection endured beyond the school gates.

 “She still checks in on me through my mum just to see how I’m doing.”

Phyllis also remembers Miss Florence Kengoma, another teacher whose encouragement left its mark.

 “She used to smile at me all the time and keep encouraging me.”

Even though many teachers eventually moved on from Vienna in search of new opportunities, their presence remained deeply felt.

 “They used to encourage people and smile at everyone. They were people’s favorite teachers.”

And, of course, there was Aunt Mable, whose care extended beyond the classroom.

 “She would always check in on me to see if I was well and make sure I had eaten enough food.”

Learning to Speak Up

For Monalisa Bulungi, the influence of Madam Mirianne came through the power of personality.

“She was always outspoken and bold.”

At the time, Monalisa described herself very differently.

 “I was shy and timid.”

Watching Madam Mirianne left a lasting impression.

 “That character about her stayed stamped on my mind because it helped break me out of my shell.”

Today, Monalisa recognizes how much that example shaped her.

 “I am no longer afraid to speak up or engage strangers in conversation. I loved her boldness, something that is shaping the woman I am becoming.”

Lessons Beyond the Classroom

For Michelle Grace, Madam Mirianne was more than an art teacher.

 “It was in art that I learned not only art but daily life skills which I use up to this hour.”

One moment in particular stayed with her.

 “She once noticed that I look people straight in the eye when they are talking to me and commended me for it.”

What could have been dismissed as a small observation became a lasting source of confidence.

“Since then, I have never feared to look anyone in the eye. Instead of finding it intimidating, she saw it as a good thing.”

Together, these memories paint a picture of the women who shaped the Vienna experience not only through lessons taught in class, but through encouragement, care, and the quiet affirmation of a young person’s potential.

Throughout this month-long feature, we will continue sharing alumni memories celebrating the Women of Vienna, those whose influence continues to shape lives long after school.