Brother Beatus Kagaruki, a dedicated brother at Montfort Scholastic House in the Kora Morogoro Diocese, is not only tending to the land but also nurturing the seeds of leadership within himself and his community.

Brother Beatus is a Bachelor of Education student majoring in Religious Studies at Jordan University College in Morogoro, Tanzania, and a proud alumnus of the Next Generation Leadership Programme (NGLP) who embodies the programme’s principles of transformation and service.

For Brother Beatus, the NGLP scholarship has been a transformative force, providing him with valuable skills and knowledge that seamlessly integrate with his academic pursuits. The program’s offerings, focusing on leadership skills, executive management, and child protection, align closely with his educational journey. “The program is much connected to my studies,” he affirms.

One of the most significant aspects of NGLP for Brother Beatus is its emphasis on empowering scholars with the skills and knowledge to advocate for children’s rights. He and fellow scholars visit various schools to educate children about their rights and the appropriate channels for reporting any violations. Their efforts not only inform young minds but also inspire them to speak up when their rights are at stake. Brother Beatus passionately emphasizes, “We are the change, and we have so many assets that can be used for the development of our church in terms of economic growth and other areas.”

Brother Beatus’s commitment and impact have not gone unnoticed. The Provincial at Montfort Brothers, Province of East Africa, speaks highly of him, noting that after attending NGLP, Brother Beatus became more sociable and proactive. He actively engages in farming and community development initiatives, reflecting his newfound leadership qualities. “He has commitment and a lot of initiatives,” praises the Provincial.

Brother Beatus’s farming endeavours stand as a tangible testament to his leadership and innovation. He conceived the idea of utilizing the ample available land to create a productive resource for the school and the local community. “I proposed the project of starting the garden, and I communicated with my provincial and the community superior, and they gave me the go-ahead,” he explains.

The garden now boasts thriving banana trees, along with crops of tomatoes, onions, and papayas. The produce benefits both the school’s students and the neighbouring community, fostering a sense of shared prosperity. Brother Beatus’s vision extends beyond his time at the school; he has meticulously organized a succession plan to ensure the project’s continuity.

Through NGLP, Brother Beatus has learned the importance of taking initiative and embracing responsibility as a leader. He sees himself as a mentor to children and youth, moulding them into future leaders. He extends his heartfelt gratitude to NGLP for sponsoring his education, acknowledging the tremendous impact it has had on his life.

Brother Beatus Kagaruki’s journey serves as a living testament to the transformative power of education, mentorship, and a commitment to service. His dedication to nurturing leaders and fostering sustainable community projects showcases the profound impact that individuals can make when empowered with knowledge and leadership skills.