My name is Hosea Ishaya(Bakoshi) Ajet. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Sociology with honors and a graduate degree in Public Policy and Governance. I am doing a master of divinity graduate studies focusing on interfaith leadership. I hope to use my arsenal of knowledge and experience to contribute to the growth of my local community in Nigeria and the good of humanity.

My middle name ‘Bakoshi’ holds a deep significance in my life as it was the name my father carried for many years. Derived from the Hausa language, this term encapsulated a world of meaning and conveyed a painful message about his perceived societal worth−worthless. Growing up and hearing stories of how this derogatory label affected my father’s self-esteem and aspirations, I could only imagine how it created an invisible barrier between him and the opportunities he desired, constantly reminding him of his supposed limitations. The weight of societal judgment pressed down upon him, casting shadows on his dreams and perpetuating a cycle of low expectations. However, he persevered and, against all odds and made it.

Inspired by this story, at an early age, I refused to accept such limited definitions and categorizations imposed by society on myself and other kids in my local community. While the term ‘Bakoshi’ may have been used to belittle and diminish my father’s potential, I see it as an opportunity for defiance and transformation today. Rather than allowing these words to define more kids, conscious social efforts can help to harness their power to fuel their determination and prove their limitations wrong.

I believe that true greatness lies not in the labels bestowed upon us but in our ability to rise above them and redefine our own narratives. My father hawked and sold fish, then became a tailor by apprenticeship and eventually a cook in the Nigerian military. His story (grass to Grace) has taught me that success is not measured solely by material accomplishments or recognition from others but stems from inner strength, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of one’s passions.

Though modesty is a quality I desire to emit as I execute this project, I am propelled by my conscience to say that I have overcome the bounds of my limitations. I seek the help of friends, family, and well-wishers globally to join me and help other ‘Bakoshis’ kids overcome their limitations through education.

I intend to garner social and financial support to set up, build and run a kindergarten to 12th-grade educational institution where kin attention can be placed on apprenticeship, the use and acquisition of talent, and the 6th form curriculum. With this, I hope to reach economically disadvantaged kids, help them explore their strengths, and pursue their goals without fearing economic limitations.

So, whether you give a million or a tenth of a dollar, you are taking part in reclaiming the word ‘Bakoshi’ from its negative connotations and imbuing it with a new meaning – a symbol of perseverance, determination, and the refusal to be defined by financial and social limitations. No matter what labels are thrust upon disadvantaged kids, they still possess the God-given power to transcend them and chart their own path toward success.