Did your passions lead you to this role or how did you find out your present role existed?
In 2022, I did a Cisco Networking course that was sponsored by an organisation known as Sightsavers. Safaricom were their partners in that project.
In February of 2023, I got a chance to intern at Safaricom and it is during the interview process that the panel advised I would be better suited at the Sustainability department, owing to the fact that I had studied Environmental Studies and Community Development back in university.
What is the best thing someone ever did for you?
In 2014, I fell quite ill. I was diagnosed with meningitis and lost my eyesight as a result. During that time, I spent 16 days at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). My mother left the comfort of her home and came to stay with me in hospital, sleeping on the couch without complaining.
After being discharged from ICU, my father got into an accident and my mother took care of both of us. It was a challenging time for her but her strength and motivation kept me going. She is and will always be my unsung heroine.
What has been a life changing experience culminating from your career journey?
My time at Safaricom has so far been one of my best experiences. The people here are quite vibrant. When I am in low spirits and I get to work, the energy at the workplace gets me motivated to start the day.
Safaricom has also made it easier for me to work and get around the organization by providing me with a screen reader for my laptop as well as having fitted ramps in most of the buildings so I don’t get to use the stairs.
The telco also sensitizes its staff on how to coexist with people who are abled differently and people are always ready to help especially in places like the lift.
How has life been like after losing your sight?
Adapting to the new me was quite a challenge. Life was a blur and I was often quite sad. It is during that time however, that I received lots of love and support from my family, church and friends and got to accept my situation.
Their support was timely and I bounced back and started learning how to move around. I also went back to school for my rehabilitation program and to also study braille as my new way of communication.
The downside however, is that I almost always have someone by my side for guidance. Even while going on dates, someone has to take me. It’s not the best of situations but I got used to it.
What do you do when you’re not working? Any hobbies?
I like listening to music and recently started learning how to dance when alone. Before I lost my eyesight, I played rugby and had fun while at it. Attending a rugby match is still one of my favorite things to do as long as I am accompanied by a visual interpreter.
What are the most valuable lessons you’ve learned in life and through your career?
Disability is not inability.
It’s cliché but I have realised that with the right skills and qualifications, you can do something for yourself and the society regardless of your situation.
