Growing up as an orphan who was born HIV positive, I was discriminated against as a result I developed a lot of self-stigma. Volunteering at a children’s home was my turning point, my experience there helped me recover and strengthened me. I got an insight into children’s lives who despite their harsh backgrounds, chronic illness and disability had high hopes in life and this motivated me immensely. Measurably, contributing to their well-being made me realize that I was not limited regardless of what I thought of my circumstances. I went on to work with vulnerable children in the rural community. There I witnessed first-hand the different challenges faced by some orphans who were mostly part of child-headed families or victims of abuse and exploitation.  Poverty limited access to their basic needs and yet they lived day-to-day though sad but hopeful for a better tomorrow. My experiences ignited my passion for providing orphan care interventions that allow orphans to grow up in supportive environments where they are loved and cared for.  My name is Mutongi Kawara,  I am undergoing a social impact leadership course at kanthari, and the course has helped me turn the dream of mukundi into reality.