Kisima Student (2013-2016)

I was born into a family of four children, and I am the second-born. We lived in a small village on the outskirts of Baragoi town in Northern Kenya. Our way of life was deeply rooted in pastoralism - livestock keeping was not just a source of income, but our main means of survival. My family, like many others in the region, depended entirely on our goats, camels, and cattle for food, trade, and livelihood.

Due to the harsh and fragile climate in Northern Kenya, we were often forced to move from one place to another in search of pasture and water. This nomadic lifestyle meant that our lives were shaped by the rhythm of the seasons and the availability of natural resources. Growing up in this environment taught me resilience and the importance of adapting to change.

Because of this constant movement, my parents enrolled me in boarding school from grade 2, so that my education would not be disrupted. While it was difficult to be away from my family at such a young age, it also gave me a sense of independence and a strong motivation to work hard - not only for my future but to create better opportunities for my family as well.

Life at Kisima School was truly transformative for me. It was more than just a place to learn academics - it gave me a chance to view life from a broader perspective. Coming from a pastoralist background, I had grown up with a very specific way of life, but Kisima brought together students from many different regions and cultures across Kenya. This diversity exposed me to new ideas, beliefs, and ways of thinking, which helped me grow both intellectually and socially.

Interacting with students from different communities taught me the value of tolerance, collaboration, and understanding. It helped me realize that while our backgrounds might differ, we all share common dreams and struggles. These interactions exposed me to diverse cultures, beliefs, and ways of life, helping me develop a broader understanding of the world beyond my own experiences Beyond the classroom, I especially enjoyed playing sports like netball and volleyball. These activities not only brought me joy but also helped me bond with others, build teamwork skills, and boost my confidence. Looking back, Kisima School played a key role in shaping who I am today. Engaging with Kisima alumni also introduced me to a wide range of career choices and inspired me to work hard toward achieving my own goals. Their stories showed me that success was possible, no matter where you came from.

Upon leaving Kisima, I was admitted to a university in Central Kenya to pursue a degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering (EEE). After graduating, I secured an internship as a Process Engineer, where I gained valuable hands-on experience in industrial systems. I later transitioned to a different organization, where I currently work as a Network Engineer - a role that has allowed me to continue growing professionally while applying the technical skills I developed through both my studies and early career experiences. At the moment, I am focused on growing my skills in my profession as a network engineer. I'm continuously learning and gaining hands-on experience to deepen my expertise and stay up to date with evolving technologies in the networking field.

I am currently saving up to help my family build a sustainable business that can provide a stable source of income. At the same time, I am committed to supporting my siblings through school, ensuring they have the opportunities and education they need to succeed.

During my free time, I actively offer guidance and encouragement to young girls to pursue careers in STEM. I believe representation and mentorship are powerful tools, and I'm passionate about inspiring the next generation of women to explore and thrive in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Kisima was more than just a school - it was a home, a community, and a place where I discovered my potential. The support, mentorship, and exposure I received there laid the foundation for everything I've achieved so far. Kisima believed in me before I fully believed in myself. For that, I give my flowers to Kisima - for nurturing my dreams, guiding my journey, and helping me grow into the person I am today. I carry the Kisima spirit with pride and will forever be thankful to the Kisima family.