Hope Takes Flight: The Story of Two Brothers Redefining their Futures
Joel and Enoch Kigwila know a thing or two about the power of hope.
The sons of missionaries, the two brothers were born in the U.S. but grew up in Tanzania. The pair later returned to the U.S. for schooling.
But eventually, they both found themselves in a rut vocationally. “I was stuck in a dead-end job,” Joel said. “I felt stagnant. I wasn’t living the life I knew I could be living.”
That’s when Joel, and eventually Enoch, found out about City of Refuge’s Tech Academy. It was a chance for both of them to jump-start their careers. Joel joined the inaugural Cybersecurity class, and a year later, Enoch enrolled in the Coding course.
But the journey was far from easy. Learning a brand new field and skill set was incredibly challenging. For months, their daily routine was an absolute grind: they’d attend class from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., study for a few hours, and then drive for Uber Eats from 5 p.m. to midnight.
Though they both faced numerous setbacks, eventually, Joel and Enoch graduated from their respective courses and landed phenomenal jobs at Delta.
"I was almost in shock when I found out we'd be working at the same exact company," said Joel. “We're both doing great. Since we work on separate teams, we're not depending on each other, but we're still growing by sharpening each other.”
The brothers said their new careers have completely changed their lives.
“I feel like I went from surviving to thriving,” said Joel. “Before, I had a scarcity mindset. Now, I have an abundance mindset. I can give back. I can help my people back home in Tanzania. I can help my dad with his ministry. The perks of the job are great, but the position God has put me in is even greater.”
Enoch agreed, explaining that he's been able to save money and support his family. “It's insane how much five months can change your life,” he said. Not only did I overcome some ‘imposter syndrome,’ I've also been able to change my life.”
But for both brothers, the experience not only impacted their careers but deepened their faith. "I learned to lean upon God, even when I didn't understand,” Joel said. "There were many times when I thought, ‘God, why am I here? Why did you put me in this situation?’ I learned how to trust him, even when things are hard.”
When asked what they would say to City of Refuge donors, the brothers were direct. “Sometimes you don't realize how deeply you've changed someone’s life,” said Joel. “You’ve put us in a position to grow mentally, physically, spiritually, and emotionally. My life has completely changed.”
“You don't know how much of an impact you’re making on everyone at City of Refuge. You are literally changing people's lives by the day. And the changes are generational. It's not just about me, but you've set me up so that I can take care of my family, my future children, grandchildren, and so on.”
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