Adversity to Achievement: Sharon‘s Story
Born into humble beginnings in Kenya, Sharon’s earliest memories were troubled by the hardships that come from her family’s health complications. To watch her loved ones battle sickness without sufficient support or resources made her goal clear – overcome her circumstances through success in the health field in hopes that others do not face what she has. Growing up against personally taxing challenges, including financial constraints and limited access to educational opportunities, Sharon had been connected to Asante Africa Foundation and found that, despite the barriers, her dream of becoming a nurse could be realized.
Determined to achieve her goals, Sharon shared her story to social media where she was referred to Asante Africa Foundation. Sharon’s determination led her to take any and all opportunities available, she promptly applied for an Asante Africa Foundation scholarship; and through her diligence, great effort, and resolve, she became a recipient, enabling her to continue her education towards a health career. The award meant more than just financial assistance; it was a lifeline that enabled Sharon to pursue her aspirations and unlock her full potential. With the support of Asante Africa Foundation, Sharon is on a journey of growth and empowerment and her dreams no longer seem unattainable.
Sharon now has access to resources that allow her to explore skills and knowledge that she had not considered before. She notes that attending Asante Africa Foundation’s Youth Summit had a transformative effect on her; through workshops and seminars, she developed critical personal skills in mental health, personal branding, and entrepreneurship. With a new thirst for knowledge, Sharon participated in multiple Asante Africa online summits focused on women’s reproductive health, budgeting, and self-evaluation. These skills provided a foundation of knowledge to build upon as she carries on with her studies. Immediately putting her knowledge to use, Sharon uses her entrepreneurial talents and money management skills to sell shoes to her peers as a way to supplement her income while she studies to become a nurse.
Sharon is currently a second-year student pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Nursing and Midwifery. This is an astonishing feat considering that in 2010, 18% of Kenyan women aged 25+ had not even completed secondary school, and the majority of those who go to university are men. She is an example of resilience, unwavering determination, and the role that education plays in breaking barriers to create change. In the face of adversity, Sharon sought out opportunities, took hold of them, and used them to foster the change she dreamed of.
As a second year student, Sharon is now a source of guidance and support for her family as she encourages them to take up healthy practices and preventative care they were previously unaware of. Always looking ahead, Sharon hopes to spread her expertise in health and open her own practice one day where she can provide the needed healthcare to her community.
“As I begin my clinical rotations today, I want to thank Asante Africa for their unwavering support. 6 years ago I was feeling hopeless but I had ambition to become a nurse. The transformative power of resilience even in the face of adversity has indeed helped me. Thank you Asante Africa for planting the seeds of hope in me, and helping me to achieve my dream.” Sharon