One of my closest friends on campus is Diana Naiyanoi Kimojino. We have been taking classes together since our freshman fall semester, initially by coincidence and later by design, and we’ve gotten to know each other quite well. Before coming to Wesleyan, I had never met an international student who wasn’t from a Latin American country. Diana, from Kenya, was one of the first international students I met freshman year.
As I got to know Diana better, she shared with me the inspiring story of the Nailepu Foundation, a non-profit organization she founded to help girls from rural Narok County, Kenya, transition to tertiary education. Intrigued by her dedication, I took the initiative to learn more about her background, her culture, and the challenges she faced. I attended events where she advocated for her foundation, read articles about the education system in Kenya, and had numerous conversations with Diana about her experiences growing up there.
I also asked Diana if I could help with the Nailepu Foundation, even if it was in small ways. Through my involvement, I gained a deeper understanding of the socio-cultural barriers young girls in Narok faced, such as Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and early marriages. Working closely with Diana, I learned about the importance of community support and the profound impact of educational opportunities on shaping these young girls’ futures.
This experience broadened my socio-cultural awareness and taught me to appreciate the diverse backgrounds and experiences of people around me. It also highlighted the importance of empathy, open-mindedness, and active engagement in understanding others’ perspectives. By stepping out of my comfort zone and immersing myself in Diana’s world, I not only strengthened our friendship but also enriched my own worldview.
Recognizing and valuing the complexity of others’ backgrounds has become a vital part of how I interact with people. This journey has equipped me with the skills to interact effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and has reinforced my commitment to inclusivity and social justice.
