Turning Transition into Learning
Part 2 - Barbra Mukuve & Mwihaki Waithiru (Maggie)
Following Part 1 of the Turning Transition into Learning series, we bring you more inspiration from two other members who share their experiences of turning their time as accompanying spouses into a learning adventure. Their stories might just be the nudge you need to pursue that dream on hold.
1.What inspired you to pursue learning/education during your time as an accompanying spouse/partner?
Barbra Mukuve: For as long as I can remember, I have dreamed of pursuing a master’s degree to strengthen my skills in my dream career of communications and to one day contribute on a global stage. For years, the dream had felt distant, but when we moved to Washington, DC, in 2021, I felt the timing was perfect. Around the same time, I attended the Career Lab, and our facilitator, Yvonne Quahe, shared honestly about the realities of the American market and tips on how to truly thrive in it. One of her pieces of advice was to pursue further education. This was a lightbulb moment for me- it gave me the clarity and courage I needed to finally take the first step toward applying to graduate school.
Maggie: In August 2018, I found myself in unfamiliar territory. I didn’t have a traditional job, and for the first time since I started my career in international development, I did not receive a monthly income. It was weird yet not unsettling.
Our living patriarch, my late uncle, was deeply troubled. He turned to me and with a look of concern he asked, ‘Mwihaki, you left your job to follow your partner to South Africa’. I gave him an assurance that all would be well, but he persisted. ‘How will you survive, and how will you spend your time?’, he asked. He had many questions, some which he voiced directly to me and others to his daughter Shiru, my closest cousin and confidant, because he was sure she would tell me which she did.
Perhaps to assuage my late uncle’s concerns, I started looking for something to fill my time with learning being top on the list, besides running, the gym and attending Toastmasters meetings. I like to say that I am a lifelong student. Being in South Africa in unfamiliar territory presented such an opportunity for me. I explored options around project management or governance but didn’t have the drive to act. In 2019, one of my icons, Lisa Nichols of Motivating the Masses, was going to be in Johannesburg. I attended the summit in Sandton City, which then led me to enroll in a transformational coaching program run by Lisa. That gave me clarity on what I wanted to do, and with it, my passion for wellness and nutrition.
I am still learning and have no intention of stopping!
2.What did you choose to study or learn, and how did you decide on this particular path?
Barbra Mukuve: I chose to pursue a master’s of Professional Studies in Public Relations and Corporate Communications at Georgetown University because the course had all the elements I needed to excel, not just in DC, but globally as I accompany my spouse. My fascination with human relationships began long before I even knew it could become a career path. Since childhood, I’ve been intrigued by the way people connect—how words can shape understanding, resolve conflicts, and strengthen bonds. To me, communication has always felt like the invisible thread that keeps relationships alive, and I have come to see it as the cornerstone for organizations and communities to thrive.
My journey started with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, followed by a course in Marketing Communications at the Chartered Institute of Marketing, UK. Alongside these, I gained hands-on experience in communications roles that taught me how powerful this field can be in practice. Choosing this master’s was, therefore, a natural next step to deepen my expertise and prepare myself to contribute at a higher level in the field I have always been passionate about.
Ultimately, this master’s program was more than just an academic pursuit—it is a personal mission. I want to use the art and science of communication to build stronger brands and create meaningful connections that drive change and give people a voice.
Maggie: In 2020, I signed up to do Health and Wellness Coaching under the International Coaching Federation (ICF) umbrella, followed by a 12-month Nutrition Coaching certification with Sanolife UK. Coaching was a far cry from what I was used to in project management, yet it gave me fulfillment, especially in Nutrition and Wellness.
I have been physically active for more than half my life and have been conscious about what I eat. None of this was informed by any scientific knowledge save for the few articles from health magazines. My choice to focus on nutrition and wellness came naturally to me, and no surprise to those who know me closely. A perfect marriage so to speak. A marriage I chose because supporting others to make healthy choices is something I do with passion and can do free of charge, for we all deserve to live a healthy lifestyle; further driven by the untimely deaths of my immediate family due to lifestyle diseases. Often we are so busy with ‘busyness’ that we forget to prioritize taking care of the very bodies that we need to work. This disconnect leads us to take short cuts that then short cut our healthy lifespan.
While the knowledge was new to a certain extent, the passion and sense of purpose have been the greatest drivers.
3.What were some of the challenges you faced, and how did you overcome them?
Barbra Mukuve: 1. Balancing Family and Studies: At the start of my master’s program, my daughter was only six months old. I was a new mother, a wife, and now also a student in a demanding program. Balancing it all often felt overwhelming and truly seemed impossible. But my spouse and I had mentally prepared ourselves. Together, we built routines that could carry us through. I also made peace with prioritizing what mattered most: motherhood and school. That meant easing up on hangouts or social engagements, so I could give my best where it was needed most.
2. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Another challenge was battling imposter syndrome. Studying in a new country, with a different language of instruction, unfamiliar cultures, and new learning systems, was intimidating. I questioned myself—would I really manage? I allowed myself to feel those emotions but reminded myself that I was equally deserving of excellence. All I needed to do was put in the work and trust the process.
3. Facing External Doubts: Then there were the outside voices. People often asked whether I could manage graduate school with a baby. I know those questions didn’t come from a bad place, but they were easy to internalize, especially when exhaustion set in. Still, I chose not to let those doubts define me. I leaned on my faith, the support of my family, trusted my resilience, and kept going.
Maggie: It is said that you cannot teach an old dog new tricks. This proverb while old, stops many people dead in their tracks. Add to this the one that says that if it’s not broken don’t fix it. It is no wonder that the late Myles Munroe said that the richest place on earth is the grave, for we have many dreams that we fail to pursue either because of fear, or the common excuse that it is not the right time.
There was a lot I needed to unlearn about nutrition and exercise as I studied nutrition coaching, and as I researched on my assignments. I had to accept that I was a novice that needed to learn, which required a shift in mindset. Listening with curiosity helped me to absorb more and know how the different decisions I make, no matter how small, can affect my health. A shift in mindset was the greatest challenge coupled with the fear that I would not get clients to coach. I dealt with the latter by reminding myself that I am the first client through the shift in the decisions I made and continue to make.
4.How has this experience changed your life or opened new doors for you?
Barbra Mukuve: A Journey of Transformation: This learning journey has transformed me. It opened my eyes to communications from a global perspective and helped me see the field in a new light. I gained tools that I can carry with me and apply anywhere in the world.
Learning from Global Experts: One of the rewarding parts was learning from global communication professionals who brought real-world expertise into the classroom. Their insights shaped me, and I was fortunate to put this knowledge into practice through an on-campus job, giving me the joy of giving back to my school community.
Belief in What Lies Ahead: Even though I don’t have a professional opportunity lined up, I firmly believe that doors open for those who are prepared. With the skills, experiences, and confidence I’ve gained, I am better positioned to find opportunities and to add value wherever I go.
When I look back on this journey, I see more than just a degree. I see resilience, growth, and a dream fulfilled against the odds. And when I look forward, I see limitless possibilities because I carry within me the courage to step through any door that opens.
Maggie: I would love to say that this new knowledge has led me to being the most sought-after nutrition and wellness coach! No, it hasn’t. Has my work impacted people’s lives. Yes, it has. It has also helped me become a better Mum and partner by ensuring that my family embraces a healthy lifestyle. Sometimes I win. Sometimes I don’t. All the same, I remain consistent. If my three teenage children are anything like me, the wisdom I share with them now will remain and if they make different decisions, they will one day go back to what they have learned as I did with what I learned from my parents, Esther and Paul.
Having been active in Toastmasters since 2016 has also given me a platform to share my knowledge with my audience as I continue to practice public speaking in a safe space where I get empowering feedback. This seemingly small step helps me to confidently communicate better as a coach, and with larger audiences on the same topics around nutrition and wellness..
5.What practical advice would you give to other members who are hesitant about starting their own learning journey?
Barbra Mukuve: Know your “Why”: Ask yourself why you want to pursue this learning. Is it to grow professionally? To gain confidence? Knowing your “why” gives you the fuel to keep going when it feels overwhelming.
Don’t Wait for the Perfect Time: There is rarely a perfect season to go back to school. Life, family, and work will always demand your attention. Prepare yourself mentally and take the big leap.
Embrace the Journey and believe in Yourself: Stepping into a new culture can feel overwhelming, and it’s okay to admit that. Permit yourself to feel the nerves, doubts and fear, but don’t let them silence your dream. With patience, resilience, and effort, you will find your rhythm and thrive.
Tune Out Negative Voices: You will encounter people who doubt you, especially if your path seems unconventional. Remember, their doubts do not define your potential. Focus on your own journey, trust your abilities, and let your hard work speak for themselves.
See Education as an Investment: Education isn’t just about earning a degree—it’s about growing your mindset, building skills, and opening doors. Every hour you invest lays the foundation for future opportunities.
Take It One Step at a Time: Don’t let the program feel like an overwhelming mountain. Break it down—semester by semester, assignment by assignment. Celebrate each small win; these add up and carry you forward.
In conclusion, if I could pursue this journey while balancing motherhood, family responsibilities, and navigating a new culture, then so can you. The path is not easy, but every challenge is worth it. Education is one of the few treasures that no one can take away; it stays with you for life.
Maggie: As Phil Knight would say, just do it.
It is easy to look at the cracks and potential bumps ahead as hindrances. Instead, look at those cracks and potential bumps as spaces where you will grow reminding yourself that your solution may not solve the world problems but will solve someone’s problem. This can only happen if you just do it