At just 21, Caroline Mwangi is on the verge of becoming a lawyer, fulfilling a dream she has nurtured since childhood. Her ambition, driven by a deep desire to advocate for the voiceless, is further fueled by the trailblazing legacy of figures like Justice Mumbi Ngugi.
However, her journey hasn’t been straightforward. Born with albinism in a society still grappling with acceptance, Mwangi faced rejection, whispered judgments, and countless closed doors before they could even open.
In 2019, a tragic family incident nearly derailed her academic aspirations, shaking her world and threatening her education. “It was a difficult time for our family, but we found a way to get through,” she recalls, her face glowing with optimism.
Despite these challenges, Mwangi persevered, achieving an impressive A- in her final high school exams, just a year after the life-altering event. “It was a period filled with anxiety, especially dealing with the backlash and trying to focus on my studies,” she shares.
The Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) Foundation’s support was pivotal during these tough times, helping her through four years of high school and paving the way for her university journey.
Now nearing the completion of her law degree at the University of Nairobi, Mwangi’s story—and the stories of other beneficiaries—stand as powerful examples of resilience, mentorship, and the ripple effect of hope.
In an interview, Mwangi reflected on her journey, from growing up in a family where albinism was not uncommon to the challenges of transitioning from a special school to a more integrated educational system. “Shifting to a mainstream school was one of the toughest experiences,” she says. “I had to explain myself to everyone—teachers didn’t understand my condition and didn’t know how to accommodate me. But they told me, ‘You have to learn to coexist with others.’”
Despite social hurdles, a larger challenge loomed: access to education. When Mwangi received her primary school results, her mother hesitated to allow her to attend Mahiga High School, citing concerns about her ability to reach her full potential. After much discussion, her mother agreed, but only two weeks after the school year had begun. The next obstacle was securing school fees, and there were moments when she feared she wouldn’t be accepted. But KPC’s timely intervention changed everything, offering her a scholarship that relieved her of financial stress and enabled her to focus on her studies.
Now, Mwangi is determined to use her legal career to champion justice, equity, and transformation, particularly for marginalized communities. “This is just the beginning. We’re ready to mentor those who follow us. We can create more stories of success,” she asserts.
Mwangi is among the first cohort of KPC Foundation’s Inuka scholarship programme, which supports talented students living with disabilities to pursue secondary education. To date, 45 students have been sponsored through this initiative, and last year, 47% of the beneficiaries achieved university entry grades—a clear testament to their resilience.
The programme goes beyond financial support, also providing uniforms and other essential school supplies. Additionally, KPC launched an annual mentorship programme for Inuka scholars, aimed at equipping them with guidance, life skills, and career preparation. According to KPC Managing Director Joe Sang, this initiative is designed to empower young people to not only succeed academically but to lead fulfilling, impactful lives.
Mwangi’s success story is part of a broader movement, with other students like Levy Kabesa, Monica Isabwa, and Allan Kwambai also preparing for university after overcoming their own challenges. Kabesa, for instance, a visually impaired student from Nyamira County, faced immense obstacles in his education. With support from KPC, he went on to achieve an impressive A (plain) in the national exams. Now set to study law at Kenyatta University, Kabesa is determined to fight for justice and defend marginalized communities. “My motivation to study law stems from my experiences—I want to break societal barriers and advocate for those who are often overlooked,” he says.
Kenneth Munene, a computer science student with a mobility impairment, also benefited from the Inuka Plus scholarship. His journey was marked by challenges, particularly with a lack of accessibility in his school. “Inclusion has always been the biggest challenge,” he explains, recalling how a compassionate cook built a makeshift ramp to help him navigate the school. Now thriving in his studies, Munene plans to use his tech skills to design inclusive solutions for future generations.
The KPC Foundation’s efforts are not just about individual success stories; they reflect a commitment to breaking down barriers for students with disabilities across Kenya. KPC Board Chairperson Faith Boinett emphasized that education is the cornerstone of national progress and reaffirmed their dedication to inclusivity through the Inuka programme, which has been running for eight years.
“We believe that no child should be left behind due to financial or physical challenges,” Boinett stated, adding that KPC dedicates 1.5% of its profits to community programmes. To date, the company has invested Sh780 million in various development initiatives, positively impacting over 56,000 people.
KPC’s Inuka scholarship programme has become a beacon of hope, empowering students with disabilities to pursue their dreams and contribute to the nation’s growth. During the programme’s official launch, government officials, including Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba and Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, praised KPC’s commitment to supporting marginalized learners.
“The Inuka programme shows that investing in skills development for people with disabilities leads to more meaningful, dignified lives,” Ogamba said.
Wandayi encouraged the youth to explore careers in green energy, highlighting opportunities for innovation in solar technology and wind energy.
In conclusion, KPC Managing Director Joe Sang emphasized, “This programme is not just about education; it’s about dignity, empowerment, and breaking barriers.”
KPC’s efforts to promote inclusivity and support students with disabilities continue to inspire change, one scholarship at a time.
