When the call came for funding to create a student library at NTS, Luke Kugler did not hesitate. At just 15 years old and a sophomore at a US high school, Luke saw an opportunity to make a difference and jumped right in.
Luke joined the NTS community a year ago when he responded to an ad for US teens to become penpals with students at NTS in Kenya through the Marafiki Penpal Program.
Luke was introduced to Wycliffe, a first-year electrical student and their friendship began. Luke looks forward to his communications with his friend halfway across the world and cherishes the relationship between them. Through this connection, Luke became committed to ensuring that Wycliffe and his classmates receive the best educational experience possible. After learning about the library project, Luke decided to take the initiative of reaching out to donors and advocating for NTS. He had no idea that his support for this project would be so powerful.
To kick off the fundraiser, Luke made a commitment by donating $100 of his own money that he earned. This contribution made a statement to future donors, seeing that Luke truly believed in the mission of NTS. He set the tone for the campaign and motivated others to make contributions by stressing the value that library resources would bring to the school. Thanks to his efforts, Luke has helped raise nearly $1000 for the students of NTS who are in the process of selecting books for their new library.
Driven by a genuine desire to help others, Luke finds fulfillment in giving back. He treasures the smile he sees on the faces of the people he has touched and finds nothing more rewarding. He is grateful for the chance to enrich the lives of NTS students while building meaningful connections beyond his community. Through this experience, Luke is gaining first-hand insights into a culture, environment, and society different from his own.
Besides school and working with NTS, Luke’s great passion is fencing – a combat sport that combines strategy, agility, and skill. In fencing, two opponents engage using flexible swords (that do not cause harm), aiming to score points by touching their opponent through intricate maneuvers and blade work. There are three disciplines in modern fencing, each using different variations of a blade and have different rules for engagement. Typically, the first person to score 15 points wins the match or “bout.”
Luke discovered fencing when he was 10 during an after-school program. What began as a casual interest quickly revealed a natural talent. Today, he is nationally ranked in the US and practices 5 days a week. While he acknowledges he doesn’t win every match – and this, he admits can be hard – he always regroups knowing that he has many more opportunities ahead of him. Luke will tell you it takes hard work to master the grace of defeat. He believes understanding his weaknesses ultimately transforms them into strengths.
Looking ahead, Luke intends to remain actively involved with NTS and the library project. It would be a dream come true for him to someday visit NTS and meet Wycliffe and his family. Luke’s aspirations for the future include pursuing a career in either computer science or medicine. But in the meantime, he is driven to find and follow his passions.
To every NTS student, Luke shares this heartfelt message: “Staying in school is crucial. We have one life to experience so make the most of it. Get your education and do what matters to you – find what brings you joy.”
With his unwavering dedication and inspiring outlook, Luke Kugler is truly making a mark on his community and beyond.
Click here learn more about supporting the NTS library.