Nakuru Artist, 32, To Sit for KCSE After Dropping Out 12 Years ago
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In the heart of Nakuru, a local artist, Stevephine Okeyo alias Rhonda Bwoy Kigogo, is painting a new canvas of inspiration as he embarks on a transformative journey, returning to the classroom after 12 years of absence.
His determination to fulfill a long-cherished dream of pursuing a law degree is capturing the attention of the community and beyond. In an exclusive interview with Nakuru Times Reporter, the artist shared his motivations, challenges, and dreams as he balances his education and his artistic career.
Dream Deferred No More
The artist revealed, “It has always been my dream to finish Form 4 and go to university to study Law, and I had promised myself that one day I would make that dream come true.” This unyielding commitment to education has driven him to return to the classroom, demonstrating that it’s never too late to chase one’s aspirations.
Artistry Meets Academia
When asked about his decision to return to education despite his successful artistic career, he shared, “Most of the successful artists I’ve met are educated. So, I believe education will make my career even more successful.” His belief in the synergy of education and art is evident in his dedication to both realms.
A Project in Progress
The artist is not just focusing on his academic journey; he’s also working on a project close to his heart. “There is a project I’m working on that specifically narrates my journey and dreams that have come to pass,” he revealed. This project promises to be a testament to his personal growth and creative expression.
Education’s Endless Possibilities
Reflecting on the broader impact of education, he stated, “When someone is educated, he/she has so many opportunities.” This perspective reinforces the transformative power of knowledge and the doors it can open.
Balancing Act
Returning to the classroom after a 12-year hiatus is not without its challenges. “To be honest, it has not been easy for me,” he admitted. “Being out of class for 12 years was a very long period. So, I had to put some commitments aside to concentrate on the classes.” The dedication to his studies is a testament to his determination.
Community Reactions
The local community had mixed reactions when he first announced his decision. “Most people did not believe me when I first broke the news. Others came to believe when they saw me in a school uniform,” he explained. His story is now inspiring others to pursue their dreams despite the obstacles.
Words of Encouragement
When asked about his advice for others contemplating returning to education, he offered a powerful message: “It’s not too late to chase your dreams. Let the delays not discourage you from pursuing your dreams.”
Overcoming Classroom Challenges
The artist faced unique challenges upon his return to the classroom. “There were so many challenges. For instance, my classmates are very young; some of them were born when I was sitting for my KCPE,” he humorously shared. “Secondly, the syllabus has changed, so I had to catch up with the current system.” His resilience in the face of these challenges is truly commendable.
Art and Education: A Symbiotic Relationship
Regarding the relationship between art and education, he emphasized, “It’s not easy to do art without education. Some areas in the art industry require knowledge acquired in school.” This perspective highlights the holistic value of education in shaping artistic expression.
Broadening Horizons
Education has had a profound impact on the artist’s creative process. “It has opened my mind; it has given me new ideas on creativity,” he shared. This evolution in his artistic thinking is likely to result in fresh and inspiring works.
The Classroom Surprise
The artist recalled a memorable moment from his return to school, saying, “The first day back in the classroom, the students were like, ‘Umekuja kutufunza subject gani?’ They thought I went as a teacher.” This anecdote illustrates the uniqueness of his journey.
Inspiring Future Generations
He has grand aspirations for his educational journey, stating, “I want to use my education to push my artistic career to inspire the coming generation.” His dual pursuits are setting a powerful example for those who follow in his footsteps.
New Interests on the Horizon
The artist has discovered new interests during his educational journey, saying, “I have come to have an interest in politics. Thinking of becoming a politician once I am done with my education.” This newfound passion showcases the transformational potential of education.
Seizing Missed Opportunities
He believes that education will open doors that were previously closed. “There are opportunities I lost because I never had the papers. I believe if such opportunities arise again, I will utilize them now that I will have the required documents,” he asserted. This optimism hints at the bright future ahead.
With a knack for captivating storytelling, Amos Lumbasi has a talent for crafting narratives that resonate with readers. He combines meticulous research with a captivating writing style to create articles that are both informative and enjoyable to read.
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