MYJOURNEY

My name is Rosemary Uche Ani, A Nigerian living in South Africa.

Rosemary is a young African woman passionate about education and safety of African children. In 2007, I obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree (second class upper) in Education from the University of Nigeria and afterwards, took part in the National Youth Service Programme, where I was involved in research exercise, policy decision and review of English Language curriculum in a secondary school at the northern part of Nigeria. Also in 2007, I was elected as treasure of a Community Development Services Organisation, known as “Environmental CDS” and had the opportunity to impact positively in the lives of the rural community members.

In 2008, I obtained certificates of proficiency in Computer Fundamentals from Afrihub ICT Solution for Africa and Development Education Centre. Consequently, I was employed in 2009 as a computer teacher at Grace International School Enugu, Nigeria. At the same time, I worked on a part time basis as computer instructor with Computer kids International, a private tutorial institution in Enugu, Nigeria. In 2010, I was offered admission to study for an LLB degree at the University of the Western Cape South Africa and since then became a member of “street law” and Students for Law and Social Justice, both are law societies for promoting social justice and equal opportunity in the Africa. In 2013, I was nominated as an executive of “ENACTUS” UWC, a student entrepreneurship and development programme and have been active in many activities including representing my institution at the National competition held at Johannesburg. I have also organised several elderly day and kid’s holiday programme in Belhar-East community Cape Town, South Africa, including CV workshops and Youth Empowerment Trainings.

In 2013, I was awarded with certificate of recognition by Golden Key Honour Society for my academic achievements and leadership qualities. In January 2014, I completed 2 weeks training on peer facilitation, after which I worked as a peer facilitator for first year students at the University of the Western Cape orientation programme. In November 2014, I was awarded with emerging leader’s certificate, upon completion of a 12 session course in leadership and social development.

In March 2015, I graduated from the Law Faculty of the University of the Western Cape (Top Achiever class of 2014) and I hope to be in the forefront of Africa’s growth and development.

I have applied for the programme, to be better prepared for my career and future ambition as a teacher. Specifically, my objectives are as follows:

Promote Nigerian government’s commitment and investment in girls' education through the provision of services and funds to support girls' education. Put in place a well-grounded policy that would sustain the programme, not just based on the interest and commitment of the Government. Put in place a support system to ensure that change in government would not result in a reversal of these education programmes. Develop a comprehensive girls' education policy that would arouse interest of new government in the programmes. Develop a draft education policy for Nigerianbased on the policy pronouncements of the government and best practices from around the world.

I have maintained my interest in teaching from a tender age; hence I have obtained a degree in education and years of experience in teaching and instruction. I have been able to devote my time and energy not only to academic accomplishments but also to leadership and community engagements.

On completing this programme, I intend to obtain a master’s degree from the University of Edinburgh and a doctorate degree in Human Rights Law. I would like to specialise in women and children’ rights.

Before then, I plan to take a year out to travel and teach English in China.

My long term goal is to set up a non-profit organization that educates and encourages young African women to attain greater heights. Through my achievements, I aspire to stir changes in the lives of many and become an inspiration to many Women around the world.