In the heart of Likoni, Mombasa County, a young girl named Bahati Okuku Atieno dared to dream against all odds. Born on November 17, 2006, Bahati’s life was shaped by the challenges of her humble beginnings. Yet, it was her determination and the support of the English Access Microscholarship Program, sponsored by the US Embassy Nairobi and implemented by SambaSports Youth Agenda, that set her on a path of transformation.
“I knew I had something special inside me, but I needed someone to believe in me,” Bahati reflects on the moment she first encountered the Access Program. Her confidence and vocal nature stood out during her interview, even as her language skills struggled to keep pace. The program, which nurtured her over two years with language skills, digital literacy, and personal development, became the crucible in which her talents were refined.
At first, Bahati was restless in class, her mind burdened by the weight of personal challenges. She found it hard to concentrate, often drifting into her own world, disconnected from the lessons being taught. But as the weeks turned into months, something began to change. The program’s Value-Based Education sessions helped Bahati to confront her inner turmoil, offering her the tools to connect with herself and others.
“I used to feel alone, like no one understood me,” she says, “but through the program, I found my voice and my place.”
Group activities became her sanctuary, where she learned to listen, share ideas, and embrace diversity. Her grades began to climb from a C+ to a B, a testament to her growing confidence and determination. It was in these moments that Bahati realized her potential, stepping into roles that once seemed out of reach. Joining the debate club, becoming vocal about women’s empowerment, and eventually being elected as a class representative—Bahati was no longer just a student; she was a leader in the making.
Her journey reached new heights when she applied for the prestigious TechGirls exchange program. With the digital literacy skills she honed in the Access Program, Bahati created her first email account and submitted her application. The joy she felt when she was accepted into the program was indescribable, “I almost gave up, but the Access team believed in me when no one else did,” she recalls.
In July 2024, Bahati’s dreams took flight as she traveled to the United States, where she immersed herself in a whirlwind of learning and exploration. From the hallowed halls of Virginia Tech to the cutting-edge labs of NASA, Bahati soaked in knowledge, participated in 40 hours of STEM instruction, 30 hours of leadership development, and engaged with tech pioneers across the US. Her time in the US was more than an educational experience—it was a transformative journey that ignited a fire within her to give back to her community.
“I want to help other young people find their path, just like I did,” Bahati declares, her eyes shining with resolve. Her experiences have inspired her to start a mentorship program, aimed at guiding high school students toward early career decisions and helping them realize their dreams.
Bahati’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact of mentorship and leadership. Through the English Access Microscholarship Program, sponsored by the US Embassy Nairobi and implemented by SambaSports Youth Agenda, she has not only found her voice but also discovered her purpose.
As Bahati continues to grow, she carries with her the lessons learned, the dreams nurtured, and the determination to make a difference. “I want to be a beacon of hope for others,” she says, “because if I can do it, so can they.” Bahati Okuku Atieno’s journey is more than a success story; it is a celebration of resilience, mentorship, and the boundless possibilities that arise when we invest in the potential of our youth.
