Atukunda Precious Building Roads, and Breaking Barriers
Precious always dreamed of becoming an engineer. Growing up, she imagined herself designing and building structures that would transform communities. But like many young people from vulnerable backgrounds, her dream nearly ended after completing Senior Six.
“I always wanted to be an engineer. I wanted to build things that would help people and change how communities live,” Precious shares.
With several siblings also needing school fees, Precious made the painful decision to step aside so others could continue their education. University felt out of reach, and hope began to fade.
While preparing for what felt like an uncertain future, Precious heard Nyaka advertising scholarships by Beautiful World Canada for students transitioning to university. She applied immediately and was selected. That moment marked the turning point in her life.
With Nyaka’s support, Precious enrolled at Kabale University, where she pursued a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering for four years. Her sponsorship covered tuition, accommodation, a monthly stipend, and essential scholastic materials, allowing her to focus fully on her studies.
Beyond academics, Precious benefited from Nyaka’s holistic support. She attended workshops on Financial Literacy and Sexual and Reproductive Health, which equipped her with practical life skills from managing her finances and starting small businesses to taking charge of her health and wellbeing as a young woman.
After graduating, Precious secured employment on a major railway project in Lira, where she worked for six months before being transferred to another large infrastructure project the Kayunga–Mbale–Galilaya Road, spanning approximately 85 kilometers. She continues to work on this project today.
On-site, Precious has distinguished herself through her precision, professionalism, and strong work ethic. She takes pride in delivering high-quality work with minimal errors and achievement that has strengthened her confidence and sharpened her skills. Even more meaningful to her is her role as a female supervisor in a field where women remain underrepresented.
Looking ahead, Precious is focused on growth and professional advancement. Her goal is clear.
“In the next five years, I see myself as a registered engineer, contributing to big projects and mentoring other girls who want to follow this path,” she shares.
To girls who share her dream, her message is simple but powerful: believe in yourself, stay determined, and never let circumstances define your limits.
Precious’ story is the true definition of what is possible when opportunity meets determination and when young women are given the chance to rise, they don’t just build careers, they build communities.
