
I was born in Chewangoi, Mt. Elgon, but life did not allow me to grow up where I was born. I found myself in Chepkube, at my grandmother’s home, where my childhood truly began.
My school journey started at Kamosong Primary School, and it was never easy. My grandmother was old and a widow, struggling to provide even the basics, including school fees. Life was hard. We were five grandchildren, and we went through a lot of suffering. We were beaten brutally by our uncles, chased out of the house at night, and forced to do hard labor while still very young.
What hurt me most was not knowing where my parents were. I was abused, yet no one ever told me where my mother or father was. Deep inside, I knew I had a home somewhere, but I didn’t know where it was. Because of that, I endured all kinds of pain and torture. Eventually, my cousins could not take it anymore—some girls got married as early as 15 years old, while the boys ran away to look for work. I stayed behind because of one thing: school.
From nursery to Class Eight, the journey was extremely tough, but God gave me strength. When KCPE results were released, I performed well. My marks opened doors to many big secondary schools—something I had always dreamed of. Sadly, that dream did not come true.
After the results, my grandmother took me to the place she said was my real home. I was very happy, believing I would finally meet my parents for the first time. But my happiness did not last long. When I arrived, I was told that no one knew where my father was.
Still, God did not abandon me. My father’s brother and his family accepted me and treated me like their own child. For the first time, I felt peace and happiness. I will always be grateful. May God bless them.
My secondary education began at Kabkara Secondary School, where I completed four years. Life there had ups and downs, but I managed. After that, I joined Matili College, but due to lack of fees, I was forced to stop my studies.
I then decided to look for a job, and that decision brought me to Nairobi, where I live to this day.
Dear my younger self, I want you to know this: life will test you in ways you never imagined, but do not give up. When you are alive, accept to go through thick and thin. One day, God will lift you from grass to grace. Keep believing. Your story is still being written.
With love and gratitude,
Your future self,
Herbert Chemiat

