Reflection
by Peter Kabethi, 2018 Fellow from Kenya
As I reflect on my transformative journey with the Mandela Washington Fellowship (MWF) at the University of Delaware in 2018, I am filled with gratitude for the profound impact it has had on my life and career. Hailing from Kenya, where access to such enriching programs is limited, being part of the MWF was an extraordinary privilege that opened doors to unparalleled opportunities and experiences. My journey with the Fellowship has not only empowered me to realize my full potential but has also equipped me with the skills and connections necessary to effect meaningful change in my community and beyond.
One of the defining moments of my Fellowship experience was the privilege of meeting remarkable individuals like Nike Olabisi, an associate Professor of Biology at the University of Delaware. Nike’s inspirational storytelling and coaching narrative deeply resonated with me, igniting a passion for education and community empowerment that continues to drive my endeavors.
During the Fellowship, I seized the opportunity to enhance my communication and presentation skills, particularly through learning tips on Ignite pitch presentations. Little did I know that these skills would become instrumental in shaping my future endeavors. From improving my public speaking abilities to crafting compelling funding requests, the proficiency I gained in these areas proved invaluable not only during my master’s thesis defense but also in advocating for causes I am passionate about.
One of the most gratifying outcomes of my MWF journey has been the ability to leverage my newfound skills to make a tangible difference in my community. Inspired by the spirit of giving back instilled in me during the Fellowship, I embarked on various initiatives aimed at empowering marginalized groups. Through my efforts, I successfully convinced donors to sponsor 20 needy high school students to the tune of US$20000, providing them with access to quality education and opportunities they deserve. Witnessing the transformative impact education had on these students reaffirmed my belief in its power to drive positive change.
Furthermore, the Fellowship inspired me to push beyond my comfort zone and pursue further academic endeavors. Fueled by a newfound sense of purpose and determination, I enrolled in a master’s program at Aga Khan University Institute of Educational Development in East Africa, graduating with a Master of Education degree in 2023. This educational journey not only expanded my academic horizons but also reinforced my commitment to lifelong learning and growth.
On a professional level, the impact of the Fellowship has been remarkable. It has opened doors to new opportunities and propelled my career trajectory forward. In recognition of my dedication and expertise, I was promoted from a high school teacher to a technical trainer in a technical college—a testament to the skills and leadership qualities I honed during the Fellowship.
Additionally, I have been honored to be invited to offer keynote addresses at various educational events and participate in panel discussions, including the most recent one during the International Deaf Awareness Week organized at United States International University-Africa in Kenya in September last year. Moreover, I have had the privilege of being hosted on radio talk shows to elaborate on the role of technology in deaf education and communication, further amplifying the importance of inclusive education and accessibility.
In conclusion, my journey with the Mandela Washington Fellowship has been a transformative experience that has empowered me to effect meaningful change in my community and beyond. Through education and empowerment, I am committed to creating a brighter, more inclusive future for generations to come.
