Poverty to power: UK-based leader inspires Homa Bay students to dream big

Regina Williams, the director Global Voices of Resilience organisation is partnering with education stakeholders in Homa Bay County to inspire learners through motivational talks aimed at unlocking their potential.

Williams, encourages students and individuals to overcome adversity through messages centred on resilience, education and self-belief.

She says education, perseverance and faith are key pillars that enable young people to build successful lives.

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According to Regina, motivating students helps them rise above their circumstances and shape a future defined by determination and resilience.

“Education and determination open doors and transform lives,” she said.

“The motivational talks focus on resilience, education and leadership. Young people are inspired to pursue their dreams and contribute positively to society.”

Regina spoke to journalists after delivering a talk at Ogande Girls High School in Homa Bay Town Constituency. During the visit, she was accompanied by Homa Bay County Commissioner Ronald Mwiwawi.

The team also visited Oriwo Boys High School and Siburi Secondary School in Karachuonyo Constituency.

Through the Voice of Resilience Programme, Regina focuses on empowering young people by encouraging education, leadership, resilience and respect for all members of society.

Born and raised in Kisii County, Regina grew up in extreme poverty, often going to school hungry and sleeping on the floor. However, through education, resilience and faith, she rose to achieve professional and political success in Great Britain.

She made history as the first elected Kenyan female councillor in Great Britain, serving in London from 2000 to 2010—years before the historic election of Barack Obama as President of the United States in 2009.

Her work now involves speaking engagements across the United Kingdom, Europe and other international platforms.

Regina is also an award-winning author of the autobiography Blessed Struggles, which reached number three on Amazon’s bestseller list in the British Political Autobiography category.

The book narrates her journey from extreme poverty in rural Kenya to professional and political success in Great Britain.

“Through my story and my award-winning book, I give students hope and show them that struggles can become the foundation for success. They need to be determined and committed as well,” she said.

County Commissioner Mwiwawi said the collaboration helps inspire learners to believe in their potential, future leadership and the importance of education.

He added that engaging learners on government agendas helps them understand national priorities and align themselves with the country’s development goals.

“The programme helps learners understand their role in society and build strong character. The talks encourage discipline, good values, leadership and responsible citizenship among young people,” Mwiwawi said.

Principals Jane Odhiambo of Ogande Girls High School, Christine Musiga of Siburi Secondary School and Tom Amadi of Oriwo Boys High School said motivational talks are effective in addressing issues affecting young people.

Musiga noted that many students were inspired to work harder in their studies.

“Most learners told us they were inspired because they come from humble family backgrounds just like Regina. They have promised to work hard,” Musiga said.

Odhiambo and Amadi said such talks also align with the new curriculum in schools.

“Students learn communication skills and develop confidence in public speaking,” Odhiambo said.