Ah, It’s Father’s Day! That special time of year when we take a moment to appreciate all the fantastic things our dads do for us. Whether it’s fixing our bikes, offering us a shoulder to cry on, or simply being there for us through thick and thin.

Shall I tell you a Father’s Day story?

Glovis is a student at Strathmore University and comes from Congo. Like some of us, during his childhood, his dad worked in a city away from home every weekend; however, he made sure that he made time for his family, and not just that, he made sure that everyone enjoyed being around him.

He tells me that the most important character traits he picked up from his stern yet loving father are to ‘play it down but don’t be down,’ be humble, and be yourself.

As Glovis puts it, his dad is like that one friend whom you don’t want to need to hear.

But what is different is that his dad is a master storyteller, weaving tales that captivate and challenge, gently guiding his son through life’s complexities with the gentle veil of a loving mentor.

And even when distance sets them apart, their connection perseveres, bridging the divide with phone calls and video chats.

Theirs is not a bond forged just by blood but by a shared love for the finer things in life – a deep-rooted admiration for cars. – particularly the ever-reliable Toyota brand, he dreams of one day gifting a Land Cruiser to the man who has given him so much. Quite the gift, I must add.

We all have those sluggish mornings – Glovis says he imagines his father, miles away and already awake, marching victoriously into the day. This mental image propels him into action — a hot shower followed by a productive day, his heart brimming with motivation and purpose.

But what are his favorite memories with his dad?? He tells me he’s got several; maybe it’s the cloud of dust and a smoky zigzag from drifting cars or that part where he gets pocket money with the lovely clinger that he shouldn’t tell anyone(we’ve all been there, right?).

He also shares that he has learned how to take risks founded on his dad’s entrepreneurial spirit; he fondly recalls a family road trip to Zambia where they had to get creative with their budget for fuel and food. He then learned that sometimes you must take risks that leave you going, “Waaaah!”

And, in their darkest moments and brightest triumphs, they find solace in their unwavering faith in God – an anchor that holds them steadfast.

This story is a tribute to an incredible man, father, and role model and to all the fantastic, wonderful fathers across the globe whose presence, even if distant, fills every corner of our world with love and light. Happy Father’s Day!

This article has been written by Keith Albert.

What’s your story? We’d like to hear it. Contact us via communications@strathmore.edu