Help Vanessa and Marypaula Complete University

Hello everyone,

We are Vanessa Okpara and Marypaula Okpara, two sisters from Nigeria studying in Canada. Unfortunately, the economic instability in Nigeria has hit our family hard, especially our parent’s business, which was the family’s main source of income, taking a hit. Adding to our financial strain, the rising cost of tuition in Canada, coupled with other living expenses, has made pursuing higher education increasingly unaffordable for international students like us. We find ourselves in a tight spot financially, struggling to cover our tuition expenses. With heavy hearts after exhausting other options, we’ve turned to GoFundMe for support. Asking for assistance through this means wasn’t easy, but we hope for the kindness of friends, family and anyone touched by our situation.

We have struggled to support ourselves all while trying to complete our education. This financial strain has prompted our parents to sell their assets to keep us going. My parents' business, which was initially able to support us at the start of this journey, can no longer do so. High-interest rates, foreign exchange rates and other regulatory policies have taken a toll on their source of income. These difficulties have not only affected our family's finances but have also impacted our parents' health.

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ABOUT US

Vanessa Okpara

As the first daughter of five siblings, I've always felt a strong sense of responsibility. My younger siblings rely on me for support and inspiration, particularly during financial challenges like these. My journey as a Master's in Business Administration student in Vancouver has unfortunately been marked with unexpected challenges.

Our education is our hope, and it's key to breaking cycles of stagnancy and creating a brighter future. With limited resources, we need your support more than ever and passionately plead with the general public to assist us.

Raised in Nigeria, I saw our healthcare system's struggles, particularly in female health. With this degree, I aim to equip myself with the skills and network to launch a startup to transform healthcare. I am pursuing an MBA to deepen my knowledge, expand my network and opportunities, enhancing my capacity to make a meaningful impact. This step lays the groundwork for my ultimate goal: launching a startup that embodies my vision for change. With prior contributions to scientific research and product development, e.g. in medical devices, ocular biomechanics for advancing glaucoma research towards a cure, and improving lymphedema detection, alongside volunteer work advocating for healthcare equity, I'm deeply committed to making a positive impact. Starting with a strong foundation of 3.44 in my first semester, I've continued to maintain an overall GPA of 3.10 out of 4.0, showing my dedication to this goal.

Due to this situation, I urgently need $33,825 to participate in the next semester, which I would have to register for in 2 weeks and eventually complete the 9 credits left of my program. Being unable to raise this means I have to eventually drop out and head back to Nigeria.

The thought of abandoning my dreams and the impact I aspire to make weighs heavily on my heart. With how far I’ve come, dropping out of my program, would not only stall my ambitions but also diminish my ability to support my siblings' education and our collective future. It is a possibility that scares me more than any other, as it threatens to halt the progress we have fought so hard to achieve as a family. I am not one to back down. I am resilient, focused, and driven, and I assure you that your support will go a long way in our lives.

Marypaula Okpara

I am a second-year Visual Communication Design student at the University of Alberta. I am a highly creative and dedicated individual who has remained motivated and hard-working through my undergraduate studies. I enjoy volunteering, animation, product design and design research. I want to raise funds for my tuition alongside my older sister, and your support will enable me to continue my studies and work towards achieving my dream here in Canada. In January 2022, I had the opportunity to study art and design as a certificate at George Brown College, where I received an honorarium for my creative contribution to the Black Student’s Success Network and graduated with a 3.73 GPA before transferring to the University of Alberta for further studies. In my undergraduate studies, I have had the privilege to explore many creative disciplines and interests and learn alongside many professors who have inspired my journey, taught me to be dedicated and commended all my creative efforts. I dream of becoming a product designer and illustrator and taking up design research in future (click here to see my portfolio).

This year, my proudest moment was exhibiting my animation titled “Maternity” during black history month at my University. I wish to be able to continue my studies so I can make progress and make more of such achievements in my life.

I'm seeking assistance with $31,000 to cover the expenses necessary to meet the registration for the upcoming school year. Additionally, a sum of $58,000 will help me to finish my degree. This would help ensure my studies are not disrupted in future.

We have applied for various scholarships and bursaries, taken up extra part-time jobs and shifts at work, and even private loans—but the obstacles have seemed insurmountable, and we have had to resort to asking for help. We are actively exploring other avenues, and while we wait for results, the urgency requires immediate assistance.

Still, we hold onto hope, faith, and prayer for the future. We'll keep pushing forward and not give up.

Your support through GoFundMe and spreading the word will sustain our journey as we strive to support ourselves and our educational pursuits. Our family is forever grateful for any kind words, mental and emotional support and donations that encourage us to go on.

Your contribution, no matter how small, keeps our dreams alive and ensures we can pursue our goals. We understand that countless worthy causes need support, and we do not take your consideration lightly. If a financial contribution isn't possible, we're equally grateful for your prayers and kind words and for sharing our story with others who might help.

We've shared transcripts, proof of enrollment, and achievements to offer transparency and share our journey.

Thank you for your contributions and for taking the time to know our story.

Link to Marypaula's portfolio: https://marypaulao.myportfolio.com/

Additional info:

This fundraiser, managed by Anthony Ogbuji, a colleague and dear friend of Vanessa Okpara, aims to support Vanessa and her sister's educational journey. He is fully endorsed by Vanessa and her family, with all contributions going directly towards their educational expenses. This collaboration allows Vanessa and Marypaula to concentrate on other efforts toward their educational journey while he oversees the fundraising logistics. We appreciate your support and trust. Thank you very much.