Trailblazers of 2024: Young people with disabilities paving the way for change in Nakuru
From left, Jackline Waiharo, Vincent Yegon and Maina Karanja.
Imagine being born with a condition that sets you apart from everyone around you. And even when you try to fit in, society continues to marginalise your existence.
For most of their young lives, this was the life of three young people from Nakuru who were born with a disability.
But despite this, they have risen above discrimination to become beacons of inspiration for the community.
Here are their stories.
Jackline Waiharo, born with kyphosis - a condition that causes an abnormal curve in the spine (commonly referred to as a hunchback) - has overcome numerous challenges. The condition also meant that her right leg was shorter than her left.
A trained teacher, Jackline has chosen a career focused on empowering children with disabilities at Kagoto Primary School in Bahati Sub-County.
She has actively encouraged parents to send their children with disabilities to school, resulting in a significant increase in enrolment.
She also provides older people who lack basic skills with the training they need to generate a sustainable income.
Her efforts have directly benefited seven young people with physical and hearing impairments, helping them to acquire skills in nail technology, make-up application, crochet, graphic design and dread waxing.
In addition, Jackline has supported 15 out of 50 farmers with disabilities in a climate-smart potato farming programme in Njoro Sub-county, promoting inclusive agricultural practices.
Vincent Yegon, a 26-year-old waiter at Nacity Restaurant in Nakuru County, is an inspiration to other deaf youth.
Having faced communication barriers in previous jobs, Vincent now thrives in a role that allows him to interact with others while pursuing his passion.
He hopes to raise awareness among employers about the skills of people with disabilities and encourage more inclusive hiring practices.
Maina Karanja, who lives with motor neurone disease, founded the Beyond Barriers Empowerment Network, an organisation dedicated to promoting an inclusive society.
The organisation aims to break down barriers faced by people with disabilities,
by promoting accessibility, empowerment and inclusion in social, educational and workplace settings.
Maina, 26, works with stakeholders to address these challenges and empower people with disabilities.
For example, he recently facilitated a digital skills training programme for 30 people with disabilities in Shabab Ward, equipping them with tools to thrive in the rapidly evolving technological landscape.
These individuals exemplify resilience and dedication, inspiring their communities and advancing inclusivity for people with disabilities.