My story begins in the Coastal Community of Lamu, but it was in Mombasa, over 900 kilometers away, that my dreams truly took root. Becoming the first person in my community to earn a PhD; and in the field of Information Technology (IT), was not just a personal achievement, but a milestone for all who came before me.
Currently serving as the Head of Information Communication Technology (ICT) Services in Technical University of Mombasa (TUM). My pursuit of excellence led me to Kibabii University, where I undertook my entire PhD journey virtually. This format gave me the flexibility to balance my studies with work and family responsibilities.
Although I studied remotely, I never felt alone. I built lasting friendships with fellow PhD candidates, lecturers, and support staff. We encouraged each other through challenges, shared ideas, and celebrated every milestone together. These relationships made the virtual experience feel personal and connected.
The programme was more than academic rigor; it was a personal transformation. I advanced my research skills, learned to embrace criticism as a catalyst for growth, and developed discipline, time management, and digital collaboration. I became highly focused and solutions-oriented, with the ability to turn data into meaningful insights that can improve learning and innovation.
Today, I am proud to be an alumna of Kibabii University. I remain committed to supporting others in their academic journeys, share my research, and promote the use of technology to make learning more effective and inclusive. My PhD experience not only advanced my career, but also deepened my passion for innovation and lifelong learning. It is a journey that continues to inspire me to give back, mentor others, promote smart education and technology that transforms communities.