When Aisha Chebet Too first walked through the gates of Strathmore University, she expected a journey, defined solely by academics. What she didn’t anticipate was the deep dive into leadership, personal growth, and purpose-driven engagement that would shape her beyond the classroom.

“Strathmore is a home of transformational leadership and opportunity. This is where I have grown, challenged myself, and found a community of like-minded individuals striving to make a difference,” said Aisha, who is graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies. 

Despite the ups and downs of her university journey, she has embraced every moment with grace and gratitude. Over the past four years at Strathmore University, she’s not only pursued International Studies but also discovered unexpected passions, grown as a leader, and found a second family in service.

Leadership wasn’t something Aisha envisioned for herself. Naturally shy and reserved, she didn’t see herself taking on roles that required public speaking, social engagement, or influence. But deep down, the seeds of leadership had already been planted. At home, as the eldest sibling, she naturally stepped up as a role model.

Her passion for foreign affairs was the driving force behind her degree choice. “I’ve always been fascinated by diplomacy and development,” she shares. “The BAIS program allowed me to connect that interest to real-world issues.” Field trips to Turkana were particularly eye-opening, offering firsthand exposure to how governance, foreign aid, and international policies affect communities on the ground. “It’s one thing to study international relations in theory, but seeing its impact on real lives makes it deeply personal,” she reflects.

Determined to grow beyond the classroom, Aisha immersed herself in co-curricular activities. She joined the Kenya Model United Nations (KMUN), participated in mock debates and conferences, and later became an active member of the Global Affairs Club and Red Cross Society. These experiences, she says, sharpened her diplomatic and negotiation skills and broadened her worldview.

Aisha also found purpose through community service, a space that has profoundly shaped her Strathmore experience. As a long-standing member of the Community Outreach Program (COP), she currently serves as the Communications Lead. Her role involves ensuring information flows effectively and engagement within the program stays vibrant. “Strathmore has given me a platform to learn, serve, and lead and for that, I’m deeply grateful,” she says.

But there’s more to Aisha than academics and service. She has a fun, sporty side that often goes unnoticed. Weekends would find her shooting hoops on the basketball court or joining the COP team for a friendly football match. She enjoys dancing, particularly Kizomba, as a creative form of self-expression. Aisha is also an avid cook, something she proudly attributes to her coastal roots, and she regularly hits the gym to stay healthy and clear her mind.

This year’s university theme, Personalized Attention, resonates deeply with her. “Through COP and even my internship at the Alumni Office, I have seen how real impact stems from intentional and personal engagement, whether it’s mentoring a child or simply listening to someone who needs to be heard,” she explains. “In leadership and service, people don’t just want solutions, they want to feel seen.”

Reflecting on her time at Strathmore, Aisha says, “My greatest achievements aren’t found in titles but in personal growth.”

Article written by Barbara Omondi.