Rose's Wish: The Journey Continues

This is the continuing educational journey of Rose's sons, Jim and Kent Wallunya, who are pursuing advanced degrees in Nairobi, Kenya.
The funds will provide tuition of $1,755 for Jim, $1,845 for Kent, and partial living expenses of $5,400 for the next nine months. Here are their stories in their own words on why they are pursuing advanced degrees.

Jim’s Wish

From a young age, my loving mother Rose always encouraged my brothers and I to enlighten ourselves and to touch the lives of other people. I remember she always brought non-fiction books and novels for us to read, and we would then discuss various ways to apply what we had learned. I learned new ways of interacting with people, of handling situations, and just being a good person. I cherish these memories of her as well as lessons that make me determined to give my all by simply touching the lives of other people in a meaningful way.

I am determined to continue with my studies in order to expand my competencies in development and peacebuilding work. In 2017, I graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Peace and Conflict Resolution Studies from Africa Nazarene University (https://www.anu.ac.ke/product/bachelor-of-peace-and-conflict-resolution-studies/). Some of you were part of that journey, and I am entirely grateful for your prayers, support and good wishes. I have since been working at a local nonprofit in Nairobi, supporting efforts to promote education, prevent violent extremism, improve sanitation and hygiene as well as fight all forms of abuse or gender-based violence. This experience has served as a confirmation of my desire to work in the development field.

I believe that continuing my education with a Master’s degree in Governance, Peace and Security Studies will position me to create greater positive impact through my work. Your support will go a long way in ensuring that I remain in school at the Africa Nazarene University (https://www.anu.ac.ke/) and advance my studies with a Masters Degree.

Asante sana na mungu awabariki.

Kent’s Wish

My mother was a teacher, a passionate one. One of the fondest memories I have of her, is when she used to allow me to tag along to her school, mostly when she was on duty. I am not able to think of anything that can match her passion for teaching. I loved how warm she was towards her students, always taking consultations and taking her time to actively participate in their farm work, as opposed to merely issuing orders as is the norm in some of our institutions. Should I have the opportunity in future to lecture Law, I am sure I will do it with the same passion I admired in her.

I finished my undergraduate degree in law at Kenyatta University in 2019. I was fortunate to intern at a law firm upon completing my undergraduate program. Interning was an eye-opening experience, since I was able to take part in the practical aspect of law. I was able to polish legal and legislative drafting skills acquired in lectures. I was also able to benefit and identify my strengths and areas of growth, through mentoring by my supervisors. They guided me through what I need to learn to be successful in the legal profession. As a result, I successfully completed a mediation course, at the Mediation Training Institute East Africa (https://www.mtieastafrica.org/), and I am now a certified professional mediator.

I cannot underate the importance of advancing my education, as it will clearly give me additional skills to work within the Kenyan legal system. This is another reason I would really appreciate an opportunity to proceed with postgraduate studies

By joining the advocates training program at the Kenya School of Law (https://www.ksl.ac.ke/) I can become an accredited and registered mediation practitioner with the Kenyan courts that goes further than my current certification. I plan to do a Master’s degree in Alternative dispute resolution. This area of law is of interest to me, since it provides an alternative to the traditional litigation process, a rapidly growing discipline in Kenya.

This will go a long way in expanding my mastery of law and make me more qualified and marketable as an Advocate and Mediator. Thank you.

Jim has completed his first two semesters for his Masters, and Kent has completed mediation training. Your support will help them continue their educational journey, and fulfulling Rose's Wish. Thank you! Asante sana!