From fear and self-doubt to faith and purpose, Isabirye’s journey shows what’s possible when we trust in the Lord
Growing up in Uganda, Isabirye's family struggled financially, and getting a consistent education often felt impossible for him and his siblings. “There just wasn’t enough money,” he said. At the age of 13, he made the difficult decision to quit school.
The decision to drop out stayed with him for years. Without formal schooling, his career options were limited, and he often felt left behind compared to others his age who were moving forward in their education. “It made me doubt myself,” he explained. “I wondered if I would ever be able to catch up.” The lack of a steady education not only restricted his opportunities but also planted a fear that he might never reach his potential. It was this desire for a second chance that later inspired him to enroll in BYU-Pathway Worldwide .
Even then, the self-doubt lingered. “For the first two months, I wasn’t sure I could make it. I wasn’t even sure I could finish a BYU-Pathway certificate,” he said. Having been out of school for so long, he questioned whether he could succeed academically again. Finances and the pressure of balancing school with other responsibilities only added to the weight of uncertainty.
Gaining confidence
As Isabirye persisted, something changed. Through prayer and fasting, and with the help of classmates and mentors, Isabirye slowly began to believe in himself again. “I asked questions to those who knew the things I didn’t know,” he said. “I gained confidence in myself that I could make it.”
Isabirye’s progress is undeniable, but like many students, he faced difficult subjects, especially math. One day, he walked into an exam very anxious and feared he wouldn’t be able to remember what he had learned. Later, when he saw his results, he was stunned: he had only missed three questions. “I know the Lord helped me remember what I had studied. I know it was Him who helped me with that exam.”
Seeing God’s hand
Partway through his studies, Isabirye faced one of the most frightening experiences of his life. While on his way home one evening, he was robbed and lost his laptop. The trauma shook him, and for a moment, he wondered how he could possibly keep going. “Even though I was traumatized, I knew that my Heavenly Father knew me,” he said. “He knew what I was going through.” Isabirye's faith and divine guidance helped him to keep going.
At a time when giving up might have seemed easier, help came in an unexpected way. A friend stepped in and gave Isabirye a laptop so he could continue his coursework. To him, it wasn’t just an act of kindness — it was a miracle. “Heavenly Father is merciful and just. That I can surely testify.”
A new purpose
For Isabirye, BYU-Pathway provided an education that transformed how he sees himself and his future. “Now I’m respected by many people, even those who used to underestimate or undermine me. I’ve found purpose in my life. I am confident and grateful.”
With that new respect comes direction. For the first time, he sees a clear future and has the faith to pursue it. “BYU-Pathway has been a game changer for me. It’s all because of BYU-Pathway.”
Encouraging others to begin
Isabirye’s journey began with fear, doubt, and very little support. He knows what it feels like to wonder if you’re good enough. That’s why he now encourages others to take the leap, even if they feel scared. “I want to let you know that there is so much more than you can imagine. But not until you start your educational journey with BYU-Pathway Worldwide. You can’t realize it unless you start.”
Like Isabirye, your journey doesn’t have to be defined by where you started. Discover what’s possible when you begin your own path — check out the BYU-Pathway degree list.