Abdulai Thaimu Bundu, once a tissue seller on the streets of Sierra Leone, has defied the odds and achieved his dream of obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work. His remarkable journey, filled with moments of struggle and triumph, is a testament to the power of support and perseverance.

A decade ago, during the Ebola epidemic in 2014, Abdul found himself selling tissue at the old railway line, barely making ends meet. However, fate intervened when he crossed paths with Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr. Though she didn’t purchase any tissue, her genuine curiosity about Abdul’s schooling marked the beginning of a life-changing encounter. With a simple smile, she offered him Nle250 to buy books, igniting a spark of hope in Abdul’s heart.

Despite his humble beginnings, Abdul’s determination to pursue education remained unwavering. When Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr noticed his absence from school one Monday, she probed further and learned about his financial struggles. Moved by his plight, she offered her contact information for further assistance, laying the foundation for a transformative relationship.

Abdul’s journey was not without its challenges. From navigating financial hurdles to overcoming phone struggles, he faced numerous obstacles along the way. However, with the unwavering support of Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, as well as the encouragement of Trudy Morgan, Aminata Idrissa Kamara, his family, friends, and classmates, Abdul persevered.

Today, Abdul stands tall as a symbol of resilience and determination. His graduation with a Division one in Social Work is not just a personal achievement but a beacon of hope for countless others facing similar circumstances. As he looks to the future, Abdul expresses profound gratitude to all who supported him on his journey and recognizes that this is just the beginning of his impact on the world.

Abdul’s story serves as a reminder that with the right support and determination, anyone can overcome adversity and achieve their dreams. His journey from tissue seller to BSC graduate inspires us to believe in the power of education and the transformative impact of kindness and generosity.