By Brenda Odhiambo

Six Mastercard Foundation Scholars studying at USIU-Africa were featured in the first edition of the Regional Bureau for the East and Horn of Africa and Great Lakes (EHAGL) Complementary Pathways Newsletter published by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). The Mastercard Foundation Scholars included Safari Etienne, a 2nd year International Relations student who spoke of his journey toward higher education in an interview with the publication.

“I was born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. My early life was marked by war, displacement, and uncertainty. My mother, a brave woman, gave birth to me in the midst of chaos and named me "Safari," signifying the journey of my life. Regardless of all the challenges I faced growing up, I did not give up because I had faith and hope that there is no condition which is permanent and no wound without a reason,” he said.

“As I grew up, I became increasingly aware of the opportunities and limitations of life in the settlement. I always dreamed of a better future, one where I could use my education to make a difference,” says Safari. My life took a turn when I got the opportunity to study at USIU-Africa through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. Education at USIU-Africa has brought happiness and purpose to my life,” he added.

Five other Mastercard Foundation Scholars, Rebecca Ndinayo (2nd year, Bachelor of Arts Psychology) Prefina Rebecca (3rd year, Bachelor of Arts International Relations), Samuel Gebreselasie (1st year, Bachelor of Science in Epidemiology and Biostatistics), Raba Abdirahman Hakim (2nd year, Bachelor of Arts in Psychology), and Jean Nepo (1st year, Bachelor of Science in Accounting), were also featured in a pictorial in the publication.

Additional reporting by the UNHCR East and Horn of Africa and Great Lakes (EHAGL) Complementary Pathways Newsletter.