My Younger Self Series –  Theophilas

“If there is no struggle, there is no progress” 

Growing up is rarely a straight path; it’s full of twists and turns. Suddenly, you find yourself an adult, expected to fend for yourself, provide for others, and make a positive impact on society. This journey demands being grounded—at least, that’s what I’ve learned as I grow. It’s important to recognize that as a child or adolescent, you might not always see eye to eye with your parents, if you’re lucky enough to have them and for them to be present in your daily life. While you naturally want to carve out your own identity, it’s wise to shape your character on the foundations your parents have set—assuming they have your best interests at heart.

As you enter adulthood, focusing on the present becomes crucial because it’s the only moment where you have real control. How you spend each 24-hour cycle profoundly influences who you become. So, always strive to be honest with yourself—don’t hide from where you are or what you’re going through. Remember, good peer pressure is positive reinforcement. In the end, make every day count, and your future self will thank the choices your past self made.

Love,

Your Future Self – Theophilas Matundura – Managing Partner TMM & Partners Advocates

My Younger Self Series –  Nelson

My name is Nelson Katami, born in Kabendo Village, Lwandanyi Ward, Sirisia Constituency, Bungoma County, Kenya. I come from a humble background, being the last-born in a family of ten children, born to older but loving parents.

Life was not easy growing up. At the young age of four, I had to start providing for myself by taking care of my clothing and personal needs, while my parents could only manage to provide shelter and food.

Getting an education was a real struggle due to limited resources at home. Despite my challenges, I had a big dream — I wanted to become a doctor and make a difference in people’s lives. Unfortunately, financial constraints made it impossible to achieve that goal. Instead, I pursued my studies in ICT and trained as a technician.

My parents worked hard to support us. My father practiced animal herbal treatment, while my mother was a mama mboga, reselling vegetables in the rural market of Cheptais. Despite their efforts, life remained difficult, and we often had to survive on very little.

Over the years, I have struggled to improve my life, but lack of connections and opportunities has made it challenging to secure stable employment. However, I’ve learned an important lesson: business and farming are the keys to a better future. I now believe in creating opportunities rather than waiting for them.

Life is full of challenges, and no journey is ever smooth. To overcome obstacles, we must think critically, act wisely, and stay determined.

This is my story, my journey, and my belief that with hard work, resilience, and focus, we can rise above any circumstances.

Love,

Your Future Self

My Younger Self Series –  Abdikadir

My name is Abdikadir Sharif Mohamed. I grew up during a time when my country was torn apart by civil war, which forced many families to constantly move in search of safety. For years I was separated from my parents, yet I never abandoned my education. Wherever I went, I continued my studies until I completed the Qur’an. Later, my family and I returned to the capital, where I resumed my studies; this time I entered high school.

My dream was to study abroad. I left Somalia for Uganda, where I encountered people from diverse backgrounds, both in terms of language and culture. Soon after, the COVID-19 started, and then government closed educational places and my progress toward start university stops there. I then moved to Kenya, planning a journey that would eventually take me to the United States, but unluckily, it couldn’t get approved. After two and a half years, I returned to Somalia, feeling that I had lost so much time.

However, I was never become alone—my mother constantly encouraged me to never give up. With her support, I decided to restart my education inside Somalia and enrolled at Jamhuriya University. At first, it was very difficult, especially when I saw my old classmates already in their final year of university. For two weeks I stayed home, overwhelmed by discouragement. But one morning I decided to return to the university, and that decision changed my life.

I slowly adapted to university life, I took on various roles within the IT student union, and in my third year I became president of student union. I also served as an assistant lecturer, teaching several subjects and working alongside different lecturers.

Since childhood, I have always loved playing and watching football, and I have also been deeply passionate about playing video games.

If I could give one piece of advice to the next generation, it would be Don’t compare yourself to others. also Change the plan but never change the goal.

Love,

Your Future Self

My Younger Self Series –  Ruweida

“All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them”

Dear young me,

Don’t worry too much, I believe in you, that you will take a good decision which will make me happy and proud.

Life is not easy for everyone, but face it with confidence and faith, never let the bad seconds ruin the good hours.

I know that you live in a country which is difficult to get anything you want, but don’t give up and remember quitters never win. I’m waiting for you and I will be who you made me according to the choices that you are making now. I can be a mango or a cactus, it depends what type of seed you plant now.

Use your friends wisely because if there’s no enemy inside, the enemy outside can’t do anything. Set goals and approach towards it every single day and never change the goal no matter how hard it is to achieve, but instead change the path or the tactics. Build network, the more people you know the more information and opportunities you will get. Always be aware who you surround with, you will be shaped by your surroundings and people will judge you accordingly.

Don’t stress yourself too much, enjoy every moment and obey God. Always do prayer all the time. Let your faith be your shield and the weapon of your success. Don’t let down anyone who is struggling in order to achieve his goals just like you. All I want to say to you is that I trust you, I love you, I believe in you and I will keep praying for you in order to make me the best version that I can ever be. I’m proud of you and I’m waiting for you.

Love,

Your Future Self

My Younger Self Series – Abdullahi

Dear Abdullahi,

You may not realize it now, but you came into this world in Mogadishu in 1996, at a time when the air was heavy with war and uncertainty. carrying the weight of responsibility without always having a voice. Life tested you early, but what you didn’t know then is that those very struggles were shaping the resilience, discipline, and strength that would one day define you.

I remember my childhood struggles. I trembled whenever I had to speak in front of people. I often failed to complete my assignments on time, not because I lacked ability, but because I hadn’t learned discipline or time management. I relied only on memorization, thinking it would be enough. It wasn’t. That mistake taught me my first big lesson: planning and consistency matter just as much as knowledge.

I remember my teenage years too. I was blessed with friends who motivated me, but I also chose others who pulled me away from my goals. I wasted time on football and social media. I studied only to pass, never striving for excellence. Yes, people respected me, and I respected them, but I missed out on opportunities to shine. That’s when I learned the people around you can either elevate your growth or anchor you to the ground.

University became my turning point. I transformed my mindset and committed myself fully to learning. I worked hard, discovered new skills, and pushed myself to compete for top positions. I won awards, built confidence, and proved to myself that determination can change the direction of an entire life.

After graduation, I was fortunate to find work quickly. At my job, I built a reputation for integrity, punctuality, and dedication. Colleagues respected me, and I earned promotions not only in position but also financially. Each step forward reminded me of the lesson I now carry everywhere: discipline, respect, and hard work always open doors.

Looking back, I see that my life has been a journey of mistakes, lessons, and transformation. Childhood taught me discipline. My teenage years taught me to choose wisely. University taught me focus. And adulthood taught me the power of consistency.

With gratitude and strength.
Your Future Self Abdullahi.