The crisp December air crackled with anticipation as I prepared to walk across the stage at the University of Nairobi’s 72nd graduation ceremony on 13 December 2024. Receiving my Master of Arts in Human Rights was a momentous occasion, made even more special by the unwavering support of my academic advisors, friends and family, and the Krystle Kabare Scholarship. The scholarship was instrumental in my academic journey, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity it provided.
In 2021, I received the second Krystle Kabare Scholarship and become the first MA Deaf Student to do so. It has been an amazing experience since. It is also a journey that extends well beyond academia. It is a source of pride to be the first student with a disability to complete MA studies with the Krystle Kabare Scholarship, leaving a legacy of perseverance and support through this prestigious award.
This journey transcended academic achievements. I was able to break barriers, challenge perceptions about my abilities, and demonstrate that a disability should never limit dreams. While the Krystle Kabare Scholarship provided valuable financial aid, it was also a beacon of hope, a testament of belief in my potential. I am deeply grateful to Grace Davies and Chhani Bungsut for their unwavering belief in me and their continuous support. Their guidance has been instrumental in my success. I am particularly thankful to Chhani for fostering my passion for creative writing and helping me develop my unique voice.
Outside the classroom, the scholarship enabled me to advocate for disability rights, utilising my voice to highlight the needs and hopes of a marginalised community. I’ve had the opportunity to do this through blogs advocating for better social assistance for students with disabilities and an interview about my personal journey. These experiences have ingrained a deep sense of purpose in me and a dedication to creating a positive impact in the world.
Saying farewell to this stage, I couldn’t help but feel all the more grateful to the Krystle Kabare Scholarship for seeing potential in me and opening doors I never thought were within reach; to the multitude of University of Nairobi supervisors and family and friends for their support; and to myself for always believing in my dreams.
The Krystle Kabare Scholarship has profoundly shaped my life, extending far beyond my graduation. I am not just an alumnus; I am a lifelong advocate for the values it embodies – excellence, inclusion, and the pursuit of a better future. I remain committed to supporting the programme and inspiring future generations of scholars with disabilities, ensuring the legacy of this transformative initiative continues to uplift and empower.
My journey towards a PhD is more than just academic ambition; it is a mission to break down barriers and inspire Deaf African children. As Dr. Mugambi Njue, PhD, I hope to serve as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that with dedication and support, anything is possible. This journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the belief in the extraordinary potential within each individual with disability.