Leading By Example

By now, we've become very familiar with the quote, “you may be the first to do many things, but make sure you are not the last,” from Shyamala Gopalan Harris. She gave that advice to her daughter Kamala, who makes history as the first female Vice-President of the United States.

Annastacia hopes to follow that advice as she becomes the first person in her family to attend and graduate from University.

As one of seven children, money for basic necessities were often difficult. As a result, Annastacia’s two older sisters were forced to drop out of school and married before they finished high school.

With help of a late aunt, her older brother was able to finish high school. He went on to start a small business to earn a living. He gave Annastacia a home and supported her through her primary and secondary school education, where she was one of the top students in her grade.

After graduating from high school in 2016, she earned a One Girl Can university scholarship.

“Through your support,” she says, “I have become a great role model in my community. I am the only girl who has ever been in a university.”

In December, she graduated with second class honours from the Maasai Mara University.

DETERMINED TO SUCCEED

We knew Annastacia was full of potential when she first applied for a university scholarship in 2016. After her second year, she won One Girl Can’s Most Improved Student award and the following year, won the Best Communication Award.

Earning an internship during her third year of university, Annastacia understands the importance of this experience as she prepares to look for a job after graduation.

Globally, job offers to recent grads increase by 16% after completing an internship. Additionally, 2/3 employers look to hire applicants with previous work experience.

Annastacia is no stranger to hard work. She's already on the path to begin her career with her ambition and degree in hand.

“I am now determined to conquer the world and achieve my dreams.”

NOT THE LAST

While she is the first in her family to graduate university, Annastacia is out to prove that she won’t be the last.

"With this profession, I hope to curb corruption. This will help to raise the standards of not only my family but the entire society. I especially want to give back to the One Girl Can community through helping disadvantaged girls."

Grateful and aware of the opportunity, we know Annastacia will achieve whatever she sets out to do.

"I want to be the change and transform other girls like me by helping them achieve their dreams."