Help My Sister Ade Complete Her Degree!

My name is Adekemi Adegoke and I’m raising funds for my sister, Adebola Adegoke, known to most as Ade. I am raising funds to cover her final year tuition fees at Birmingham City University (BCU) where she is studying Criminology.

Ade's journey at university has been incredibly challenging. She first began at her former university in 2016 and in 2019, she initially entered her final year. In the same year, she found herself in a toxic and abusive relationship that not only affected her studies but also her mental health. The violence and isolation she experienced led to severe depression and suicidal thoughts. It was impossible for her to keep up with her coursework or attend classes regularly.

During this tumultuous period, our father was diagnosed with terminal cancer. His illness, paired with the abusive relationship, became too much for her to bear. She was devastated watching his health decline, and despite informing the university about her situation, they terminated her enrolment, leaving her with no option to return.

In October 2021, our father sadly passed away. His death was a tremendous blow to Ade. He had been her biggest supporter, always pushing her to excel in her studies and encouraging her through the dark times. Losing him was the hardest thing she had ever faced.

In March 2022, Ade rededicated her life to Christ and found the strength to finally leave the abusive relationship, but it came at a cost. She and her son were left homeless for a year, living in a hostel, away from family. We were so happy to see her finally free. It was during this time that she began counselling sessions with her Pastor, which helped her start the healing process.

Later on that year, with the support of our family and her church, she reapplied to university. Although she had been away from her studies for a few years, she was determined to finish her degree for the sake of her and her son's future. BCU accepted her for second-year entry, and she successfully completed that year.

Unfortunately, when she began her final year in September 2023, Student Finance England informed her that she was no longer eligible for a Tuition Fee loan due to running out of funding years. Despite reapplying for Compelling Reasons and putting forward several appeals, even involving her local MP, she was unable to secure funding, and BCU placed her on a 'break in study' in January 2024 until the fees could be paid.

Ade has also faced several health challenges this year, including undergoing knee surgery, which has limited her ability to work. As a mother, she has had to prioritise caring for her son, but through all of this, her determination to complete her degree has not wavered.

I’m asking on her behalf for your support, whether it’s through donating, sharing her story, or keeping her in your prayers. Every little bit helps, and no contribution is too small.

Thank you for reading my sister’s story. We are deeply grateful for your kindness and generosity.

God bless you all.