“I rather try and fail than not try at all’’
My name is Brandon, and I live by the mantra “I’d rather try and fail than not try at all.” This month marks the start of my very first full-time job at the Kenya Revenue Authority in downtown Nairobi. The journey hasn’t been easy, presenting its fair share of challenges.
I was born in the countryside of Thika, amidst the serenity of coffee plantations and freely roaming chickens. Life was simple and joyful during those early years. Being the oldest sibling, I took on the responsibility of guiding my younger sisters on our daily walk to primary school.
At the age of 9, Better Future Kenya introduced a feeding program at our school, providing a hot lunch every day consisting of maize meal, brown beans, cabbage, and onions. While my household was stable, many less fortunate children struggled for meals. At the age of 10, I joined this group when my mother passed away, altering the course of my life. I had to take care of my sisters, and the carefree days of childhood disappeared. With my father unable to earn enough to support us, the meals we received at school became vital for our survival.
Amidst these hardships, I discovered my intelligence and potential for academic excellence. I became the headboy of our class and eventually for the entire school, even winning several trophies in primary school. My greatest aspiration was to go to secondary school. However, despite my good grades, affording secondary education did not become a reality for me.
Determined not to halt my education, I chose to repeat the last class in primary school, hoping our financial situation would improve, enabling me to attend secondary school the following year. Sadly, the only improvement was in my grades. At year’s end, I still had no opportunity to continue my education. It was then that one of my teachers shared the life-changing news that I would be sponsored by BFK (Better Future Kenya) to go to secondary school — one of the happiest days of my life.
In secondary school, I excelled and secured a university spot, pursuing a study in actuarial science. BFK continued to support me throughout my university journey, going beyond paying my school fees. They operated as caretakers, providing invaluable guidance. A significant impact came from my counselor, Lydia. Outside of our sessions, she supported me through difficult times, like when my dear friend Patrick passed away in a traffic accident during the Covid restrictions, preventing me from attending his funeral. There were moments I felt bitter and wanted to give up on education, but Lydia’s unwavering support taught me that “bitterness is poison to the spirit.”
Education has opened doors for me, allowing exploration and meaningful connections. Beyond academics, I’ve engaged in numerous extracurricular activities and met inspiring individuals.
Now, after years of schooling, I’ve embarked on my first job at the Kenya Revenue Authority, checking companies’ compliance with tax rules. I am elated with my job as it signifies the transformative journey my life has taken. I am now in a position to financially support other students through BFK, aiming to provide them with the same life-changing opportunities that shaped my life. I strive to be a living testimony of change.
Life has been incredibly challenging, but I have always dared to dream. I received several opportunities in life and made the most of them. The words my counselor taught me echo in my mind whenever I hesitate to take a risk and pursue my dreams: “Ask yourself the question: what good can come of it, and what is the worst that can happen?” Since then, I have chosen to try and possibly fail rather than never try at all.
Yours sincerely,
Brandon, 23 years old