Threads of Resilience

Today marks a moment I have long envisioned but never fully grasped until now—I am officially a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology graduate from Maasai Mara University, Kenya. This milestone is more than a personal achievement; it is a story of resilience, determination, and the unwavering belief in the power of dreams.

To my younger self: I know there were times you felt small in a world that seemed too big, where the future felt uncertain, and challenges loomed larger than life. But even then, you held on to hope. You dared to dream of a brighter future, and you planted the seeds of ambition that have blossomed into this day. This moment is for you.

University life was a whirlwind of highs and lows, of lessons learned both inside and outside the classroom. There were moments of triumph, yes, but also times of frustration and doubt. Long nights of studying, tight deadlines, the weight of responsibilities, and the sacrifices demanded by the pursuit of education—it was far from easy. But with each hurdle, I discovered a well of strength I didn’t know I had.

To my inner child: This is for you, too. You, who believed in endless possibilities, even when the world tried to teach you otherwise. Your unshakable curiosity and boundless hope lit the way during my darkest moments. You taught me to keep going, to believe in myself, and to cherish the journey, no matter how rough the terrain.

This degree represents more than academic success—it is a testament to the power of perseverance and the beauty of growth. Sociology has opened my eyes to the intricate systems that shape our world and ignited a deep passion to make a difference. I now carry with me not just knowledge but a mission to contribute meaningfully to society.

To my family, friends, mentors, and community: I owe so much of this success to you. Your encouragement, guidance, and faith in me have been my anchor. Every kind word, every gesture of support, every push forward when I felt stuck—it mattered. And to the strangers along the way who offered a smile or a word of advice, you reminded me of the kindness in humanity.

As I move forward, I do so with gratitude, humility, and a renewed commitment to growth. This is not the end but a stepping stone to something even greater. I am eager to connect, collaborate, and contribute, knowing that together we can create meaningful change.

To anyone out there chasing a dream, wondering if it’s worth it: It is. Keep going. Celebrate every small win and trust the process. You are capable of incredible things, even when the road seems impossible.

Congratulations to myself for pushing through, for never giving up, and for believing in the power of transformation. Here’s to the journey ahead—one filled with purpose, passion, and endless possibilities.

As I celebrate this milestone I want to remind you that a broken crayon still colours 🖍️.That's why I invite you to follow Liluye on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook to stay connected.

#Liluye is a global, nonprofit organization and collaborative community of lived-experience leaders, allies, and programs committed to empowering people. Currently, we provide PTSD trauma healing resources through our partners that are offering survivors safe places to work, viable trades, living wages, agency training, and holistic resources to help them heal, grow, and thrive.

As I move forward in my journey, I’m reminded of the importance of community and the incredible work being done by organizations like Liluye. Together, we can help others rise, heal, and transform, just as I have.

With love and hope,

Monrei Agatha