Born in Zimbabwe, U.S. Army 1^st Lt. Kent Mafuta has a passion for learning. Mafuta, who is currently a signal officer with Arden Hills-based Charlie Company,34^th Expeditionary Combat Aviation Brigade, and a former enlisted Soldier and truck driver for the Minnesota National Guard, joined the organization in May of 2019 and commissioned as an officer in March of 2022. Throughout his career, he has served on state active duty for the civil unrest in 2020,  and served as the officer in charge for the U.S. – Norwegian Reciprocal Troop Exchange at Camp Ripley in February of this year.

Now currently residing in Eagan, Mafuta said he joined the military for education benefits as a junior in college. His goal, he said, was to one day become a physician’s assistant for the organization. Pursuing higher learning has taken him to various places in the world, Mafuta said.

“My education journey has taken me across three continents- Africa, Europe and the USA, providing me with a diverse and enriching academic experience,” he said. “In Southern Africa l attended a private Catholic high school, where I developed a strong foundation in my Christian beliefs. This experience taught me perseverance and resourcefulness. In Europe l pursued further studies in economics, banking and finance at Universität of Pitesti and FSEGA in Cluj Napoca Romana. This period allowed me to engage with a diverse student body and learn from international renowned schools.”

Here in the United States, Mafuta completed a bachelor’s degree in radiology technology at Presentation College in Aberdeen, South Dakota. Currently, he is enrolled in a master’s of science program in information technology. Having a diversified education is something he believes will set him up for success, Mafuta said.

“This unique background has prepared me to excel in a variety of professional and academic settings,” he said.

He decided to pursue his education for a few reasons, but his main drivers were his education benefits and the love of learning.

“In short, I am driven by a combination of personal passion, professional ambition, and a commitment to making a difference,” he said.

His military education has also presented gratifying challenges, Mafuta said.

“Transitioning from enlisted Soldier to an officer was one of the most rewarding and challenging experiences of my life,” he said. “As an enlisted Soldier I developed a strong foundation and deep respect for the chain of command and the lower enlisted Soldiers. Federal Officer Candidate School at Fort Benning was incredibly demanding, both mentally and physically, and it pushed me to my limits and required me to learn and adapt quickly. While challenging, the sense of accomplishment, camaraderie, and support from my peers were instrumental in overcoming the obstacles.

His strength and support throughout his academic and professional career has come from his wife, Wenqi Liu, and his mother, Virginia Mafuta, he said.

“I feel incredibly fortunate to have a family that values education and the financial means to support my academic pursuits,” he said. “Their belief in the power of education has been a significant driving force in my life.”

Having that financial ability, for Mafuta, has also been made possible through his service, he said.

“Overall, thanks to the National Guard, receiving an education empowers one to excel, enriches their roles in society and helps them to contribute more effectively in their military and civilian life,” he said.

Pursuing an education can open doors to new career opportunities, Mafuta said, and his number one piece of advice to others who are considering seeking a degree, especially his fellow service members, is to believe in themselves.

“Most importantly, believe in yourself,” he said. “The determination and dedication that has gotten you this far will carry you through your studies. Take it one step at a time, setting manageable goals and seeking support. Every Soldier’s future is full of potential, and education is a powerful tool to help you reach it. Take the leap; you’ve got this!”

Aside from helping him to grow academically, his service has connected him with people from all over the world, some of whom he has remained friends with.

“In signal basic leadership school, we train Soldiers from our partner countries,” Mafuta said, “and that is how I met my good friend from Moldova, to which I am one of the best men for his upcoming wedding in Europe.”

Story by Sgt. 1^st Class Sirrina Martinez
Minnesota National Guard