A few weeks after graduating from JKUAT in 2007 I was praying for a job. A few minutes after praying one late afternoon I got a call from Marian. We had become good friends in JKUAT where we were taking the same academic course (then I was two years ahead of her) and were involved in the JKUATCU. That afternoon she called me to tell me that Lafarge (Bamburi), where she had just gotten her attachment, was looking for a intern and that she had spoken to her boss about me. Her boss took Marian's recommendation and asked me to send him my CV. That's how I got my first job/internship after graduation. In addition, at Marian's recommendation, her uncle gave me a place to rent for a good part of my time in Mombasa.

Over 13 years later, I continue to draw a straight line to that Job opportunity at Lafarge through every point of my career. The work experience and recommendation from Lafarge is what got me into graduate school in Canada for my Masters. After completing my Masters, the first company that hired me pointed to the work experience from Lafarge as the main reason they hired me. Since then, I've moved through different organizations and roles and the Lafarge work experience continues to mark the genesis of my career journey in all my applications. The gift that God used Marian to deliver to me on that day in 2007 continues to bless and give till today. While Marian may no longer be with us physically, on a personal level she will never be forgotten because at every turn in my career journey her imprint will always be there. 

To Marian's family, may God heal, restore, encourage and give you grace through this season and in the days and years to come. We pray for you, and most of all we commend you to the arms of Him who will never leave or forsake you. He is the High Priest who understands our pain and is there to hold us and walk with us though it all.

Rest in peace Marian!