St. Patricia’s School in Malawi: A Dream Becoming Reality

Director Stalin receiving full ownership of St. Patricia's on behalf of Shine Malawi



Sometimes God answers prayers in ways that leave you shaking your head and smiling.

Last week marked a huge milestone for Giving Basics and Shine Malawi.

Through God’s provision and the generosity of many faithful supporters, Giving Basics was able to help complete the payoff of St. Patricia’s School, and the school is now fully under the ownership and leadership of Shine Malawi.

A little over a year ago, this opportunity felt almost impossible.

Today, it is a reality.

There were moments when we didn’t know how everything would come together, but step by step, God kept opening doors, providing what was needed, and leading us forward in ways we could never have planned ourselves.

Looking back, I can only stand in awe of His faithfulness.

The more I reflect on it, the more I realize this story was never really about a school. 

It was about creating opportunities for students to discover the future God has for them.


More Than a School

Chisomo checking up on students


St. Patricia’s School is more than classrooms and buildings.

It is a place where students are given the opportunity to grow academically, emotionally, and spiritually while discovering the gifts and purpose God has placed inside them.

With the school now fully under Shine Malawi’s leadership, we have greater freedom to strengthen programs, support teachers, improve student care, and dream bigger for the future.

Our goal has never been simply helping students graduate.

It is about transformation.

We want every student to know they are loved by God, equipped for their future, and capable of making a difference in their families, communities, and beyond.

Education changes lives.

But education combined with encouragement, discipleship, and opportunity can impact generations.


A New Role and a Dream Come True

Sketch of future me interviewing future students :)


One of the greatest joys in this new season is stepping into a role overseeing sponsorships for incoming students.

Honestly, it feels like a dream come true.

In September, I will travel with a small team to Malawi and personally meet many of the students entering the program. I will hear their stories, learn about their dreams, and better understand the challenges they have already overcome.

I already know I will leave inspired.

Some dream of becoming teachers.

Some hope to enter healthcare and serve their communities.

Others simply want the opportunity to continue their education and build a brighter future.

Every student has a story.

Every student has potential.

And every student matters deeply to God.


Three Students Are Waiting

Sketch of our current three students awaiting sponsorship



As I write this, three students are waiting for sponsors right now.

I have not met them yet.

But I will very soon.

These are students sitting in classrooms right now, carrying hopes for a future they are still believing for, unaware that someone may soon be praying for them by name.

What I do know is this:

They are real students with real potential and real hope for a different future.

Please join me in praying that God provides the right sponsors for each of them.


Why Sponsorship Matters

2026 graduate!



When people hear the word sponsorship, they often think only about tuition.

But sponsorship provides so much more:

  • Education and school materials
  • Safe housing
  • Daily food and basic needs
  • Discipleship and spiritual encouragement
  • Ongoing support and opportunity
  • Healthcare
  • Spending Money
  • Taxi rides to and from their villages

Most importantly, sponsorship reminds a student that they are seen, valued, and not alone.

Sometimes that encouragement is just as powerful as the practical support itself.

Whether a sponsor chooses to build a personal relationship or quietly support and pray from a distance, both make a lasting difference.

Looking Ahead


He graduates next week!



At the end of this month, Shine Malawi will host a graduation ceremony for our senior students.

These students have worked incredibly hard to reach this milestone, and we are SO proud of them.

At the same time, many are stepping into an uncertain season. 

Opportunities in education, healthcare, and government positions are currently limited, making the transition after graduation challenging for many young adults.

Even so, we know their future is not limited by circumstance.

Their future is in God’s hands.

Please pray that God would open doors no one else can open.

Pray for wisdom, provision, favor, and encouragement as these graduates take their next steps.

Pray that they would continue trusting the Lord and walking confidently in the calling He has placed on their lives.

“The steps of a man are established by the Lord, when he delights in his way.” — Psalm 37:23


How You Can Pray

Farming Field Trip



As I prepare for my trip to Malawi in September, I would deeply appreciate your prayers.

Please pray for:

  • Wisdom as I step into sponsorship responsibilities
  • The incoming students
  • The three students still waiting for sponsors
  • The graduating seniors and their future opportunities
  • The teachers, staff, and leadership team
  • Giving Basics and Shine Malawi

Most importantly, pray that every student who walks through the gates of St. Patricia’s School would know they are deeply loved by God and created with purpose.


Would You Consider Sponsoring a Student?

Love seeing her smile!


In September, I will meet these students face-to-face.

I will hear their stories.

I will learn about their dreams.

And I know I will walk away changed.

Right now, three students are still waiting.

Three students with dreams.

Three students with potential.

Three students hoping for the opportunity to continue their education.

If you have ever considered sponsoring a student, I would love to talk with you.

Sponsorship is an investment in a life, a future, and a story that God is still writing.

If you would like to learn more, please comment below or email me directly at harguessb@gmail.com.

I would be honored to connect with you and share more about these incredible students.


Final Thoughts

Sponsored Students at St. Patricias



A year ago, this opportunity felt almost impossible.

Today, we are welcoming new students, celebrating graduates, and watching God continue to move in ways only He can.

St. Patricia’s School is more than a campus.

It is a place of hope, growth, opportunity, and transformation.

God has been faithful every step of the way.

And I have a feeling He’s just getting started.

  • I would love to hear your thoughts and experiences, feel free to leave a comment below. 
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