In a remote village in Northern Kenya, traditions and superstitions held a tight grip on the community. Shamsa Gabu was born deaf and faced the challenge of growing up in a society where disabilities were often viewed as a curse. The village norms dictated that girls, especially those with disabilities, were married off at the young age of 13, while education was considered a luxury reserved only for boys. Despite the stigma and discrimination she faced, Shamsa remained resilient and determined to overcome the obstacles before her.
Shamsa’s parents, recognizing her potential, enrolled her in a local school where she could learn to communicate using sign language. However, the lack of resources, poverty, and the absence of sign language interpreters made her educational journey even more arduous. Despite encountering numerous roadblocks, Shamsa refused to give up. She faced setbacks, including dropping out of school due to financial constraints, but she returned two years later with a renewed determination to succeed.
With the support of The Action Foundation’s IBUKA Mentorship Program, Shamsa found a glimmer of hope. This program, spanning 35 schools in Kenya, provided her with the guidance and support she needed to navigate the challenges she faced while pursuing her education. Surrounded by encouraging mentors and like-minded peers, Shamsa began to believe in herself and her abilities, gradually breaking free from the constraints of discrimination and prejudice.
As Shamsa approached her final year of high school, a daunting task lay ahead of her – the national exams. Having a hearing impairment, the odds seemed stacked against her. However, with the support of her teachers, mentors, and peers, she embarked on a rigorous study routine, pouring her heart and soul into her preparations. When the results were finally revealed, Shamsa defied all odds and emerged as one of the top performers in Garissa County, scoring an impressive average grade of B.
Shamsa’s remarkable success reverberated throughout the community, challenging stereotypes and showcasing the incredible potential of girls with disabilities. She is a living testament to the power of perseverance and determination. Today, Shamsa stands as a beacon of hope, a symbol of resilience and bravery for girls with disabilities everywhere.
Looking back on her journey, Shamsa Gabu knows her story is far from over. There are still hurdles to overcome and dreams to fulfill. However, she faces the future with optimism, knowing that she is not alone in her struggles. She recognizes the strength of a community that supports and believes in the potential of every individual.
The story of Shamsa Gabu serves as a reminder of the indomitable spirit of young women and girls with disabilities. Her journey demonstrates that no obstacle is insurmountable and no dream is unattainable as long as there is belief in oneself and the support of a community that recognizes the inherent greatness within each individual.