From Cameroon to Arizona State University: A Dream Three Years in the Making | Afopezi Moses

I am humbled and incredibly grateful to share that I have been awarded the Mastercard Foundation Innovation and Technology Scholarship at Arizona State University, where I will begin my MSc in Global Technology this Fall semester.

Exactly 3 years ago, after completing my Bachelor's Degree in Computer Networking, I made the difficult decision to pursue my entrepreneurial dream while continuing to search for opportunities to further my education, as entrepreneurship had always been part of my journey, even during my years at SUP'PTIC, and balancing both paths often kept me moving in and out of school.

This year, God answered that prayer in a way I could never have imagined. Out of more than 30,000 applicants, I was privileged to be selected as one of just 44 scholars.

Looking back, my journey to this scholarship feels both unbelievable but intentional. Over the years, I worked tirelessly toward this dream and will dedicate time to doing all that was worth committing to.

From Co-Founding and leading solutions that have impacted more than 20,000 people in Cameroon, including Skolarr, a platform helping students, particularly those in conflict-affected communities, continue learning from home, and AgricFresh Sarl, a solar-powered cold storage solution helping farmers reduce post-harvest losses and increase their income in Cameroon's West region, I have witnessed how innovation can transform lives.

These solutions have not only fueled my dreams but have also turned setbacks into opportunities for many young people in Cameroon and beyond.

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I am infinitely grateful to Open Dreams Educational NGO and its Country Director, Mr. James Akaba, who saw potential in me before I could even see it in myself and invited me to become part of this life-changing community.

Open Dreams (OD) has been at the center of many of the fellowships and opportunities that have shaped my journey and has played a significant role in helping me get to this point. At OD, I have had the opportunity to serve in different capacities, from a facilitator to Head of the Digital Center, while also leading this year's Summer Academy.

I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to my mentors, Mme. Yiviri Rasifatu and Mr. Neba Ambe, who found me through Open Dreams and supported me throughout this process, reviewing my personal statements. Special thanks to Sir Seka Jean Blaise for encouraging me not to give up when it felt difficult.

To my Family, my team, and friends, thank you for constantly reminding me of how far I can go and all that we can achieve.

To the MTN Cameroon Foundation, thank you for believing in our solutions and investing in the power and potential of young people. Your belief in me and our teams to push the boundaries of accessible skills through MTN Skills Academy made this possible

And finally, to the Mastercard Foundation, thank you for investing in this dream. I am committed to ensuring that this investment produces lasting impact.

To God be the Glory

• Afopezi Moses | Open Dreams