Nelson Mandela, who topped with 84 points in last year's Kenya Certificate for Secondary School Education (KCSE) will be taking aviation at an Ivy League University as he aims to join one of the few pilots from Gusii region.
Mr Mandela topped in the entire Gusii region from Nyambaria high school and was recently given a standing ovation by Nyamira Governor John Nyagarama.
Speaking to this reporter ahead of his long trip to Boston on Monday, he hailed the community and area leaders for their ‘unbelievable support’ throughout his entire stay at Nyambaria.
“I don’t think I would be here today if the community didn’t support me. I come from a very humble background and I must also thank area leaders especially Mr Victor Ogeto for paying my school fee. My teachers also gave me a chance and I have shown my worth,” he said.
“I want to repay them by becoming a pilot. It’s a rare career and I want to be among the few who have managed from the region,” he added.
Mandela is expected at Harvard University for an interview as he aims to secure admission in the institution which is among the best in the world.
“A Good Samaritan (Ann Ranford) from USA has already processed everything and I am leaving the country on Thursday for the US for special exams in Harvard. It’s one of the best institutions and I am ready to grab the opportunity,” he said as he made his first trip outside Gusii region for Nairobi.
He challenged children from humble to give their ‘optimum’ whenever they get an opportunity to study.
“I understand that there are many children who share similar story with me but whenever they get a chance, they must use it optimally. Everything is possible,” he said.