Imagine yourself back in school. Remember those kids who always won the awards and couldn’t help but work hard and get the best grades??!! I used to be so annoyed by “those types,” as I was the one who had to put in significant amounts of time to just barely scrape the top. I now relish in over achievers.

I puff up with pride when I hear that TFFT scholars are at the top of their class, leading the school with their performance, setting the example for their peers. One such student who I could not be more proud of is Dickson Simon. Dickson has been with us for six years now. He just completed primary school in September and begins secondary school in January. His journey is certainly one to watch. He is constantly volunteering to help with just about anything. He’s the shortest of pretty much all of our scholars, but one of the quickest on the soccer pitches and clearly quickest with his intellect!

Dickson is currently in the running for a prestigious MYP scholarship to the International School of Moshi (Arusha Campus). This provides an opportunity for 100% of his tuition for 4 years of IB (International Baccalaureate) level learning to be covered. ISM prides itself on its innovative, internationally recognized curriculum. At ISM students learn to think deeply and act wisely. While this scholarship is fairly new, previous recipients have continued to A-Levels and one just received a full ride to Harvard. Needless to say this could be an incredible opportunity, and we wish Dickson all the best.

Here he is in 2008:

And here he is in 2013:

We have faith that regardless of whether at ISM at Star High, Dickson will go on to do incredible work for his community and the region. His intense desire to help others, to assist in the learning process of so many, and to understand the ways of the world, will set him apart from many.

Have a peek into his world through his application essay:

Please keep him in your thoughts this week as he goes into the 3rd round of this ISM scholarship process! I know I’m thankful for the Dicksons of the world!