People of AMPATH: Tecla Chepkoech Kirwa
Over two decades, Tecla Chepkoech Kirwa’s involvement and support for AMPATH have grown to include many roles.
Tecla Chepkoech Kirwa
She began as a patient of Professor Joe Mamlin at the Mosoriot HIV Clinic in 2003. At the time she was weak and had been out of work for about two years. Two years later she was back on her feet and got the chance to work for AMPATH.
For a decade Tecla supported the AMPATH HIV programs in different capacities including at the food production farms and as a guard at the stores supporting the AMPATH Supplementary Feeding Program.
“While I was at the stores, we would receive patients who were very weak, and we had to give them first aid food which was sour milk. I distributed food and also served as a peer counsellor encouraging them with my personal story and giving them hope that the medication would soon help them get better,“ she recalled.
When the AMPATH farm program ended in 2010, Tecla joined the Imani Workshop as an office assistant. The Imani Workshop helped many women living with HIV to learn skills such as bead work and crafts that would empower them financially. She worked here for three years before transitioning to the Family Preservation Initiative, an AMPATH economic empowerment initiative for individuals, groups and families.
In 2016, Tecla moved to Indiana Institute for Global Health-Kenya where she has diligently served in housekeeping, office assistance and Mpesa (mobile banking) attendant. Many students and faculty working with AMPATH agree that Tecla is the enthusiastic and welcoming smile they meet when they get to the AMPATH Consortium shared office at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH). She attends to the very last detail to ensure that guests are well taken care of.
“What has made me thrive in life has been my ability to change and adjust. I am never afraid of change, never hesitated to adjust. For the young women, and really women of every age, if you want anything in this life you have to believe in yourself because, unfortunately, many will be quick to doubt and discourage you. Anyone can do whatever they set their minds to. ”
“I really enjoy welcoming guests and making people feel comfortable in our areas,” said Tecla. “For me, the housekeeping is really the best part of my work--ensuring the comfort of the faculty and students, knowing that they are doing a selfless job of serving the patients that AMPATH helps.”
Tecla beams without hesitation when asked what makes AMPATH special. “I don’t want to imagine where I would be without AMPATH for a start! AMPATH not only treats their patients. What is special about the doctors is that you could feel the love and commitment they poured into their service. A lot of clients who have been through AMPATH have not only received medical care, but also economic empowerment. In addition, the organization has created employment and training for so many. I am a good example! I would not have been able to educate my children if not for the employment opportunity,” she shares.
The 53-year-old has great advice for young women this International Women’s Day.