Constance Syombua, a recent graduate in Informatics and Computer Science, was honored with the prestigious Service to Society Award, June 28, 2024, during the 20th Strathmore University Graduation Ceremony. Her journey is an inspiring story of dedication to community service and personal growth.

When asked about her background, she says, “I love the sun; it does magic to my soul. I love gardens too because of the ambience and peace. I am an Informatics and Computer Science graduate. I have also completed a short course at iLabAfrica…” Coming from the Mukuru slums and attending St. Michael’s Secondary School, her involvement in the Community Service Office began in form two with Macheo. “By the time I was joining the first year of university, I was familiar with the Community Service Centre Office.”

One of the pivotal moments that inspired her dedication to service work was the realization of its impact. “The expansiveness and vastness of it are unfathomable. A life changed can lead to lives changed, and the spread expands on and on. At the end of the day, the impact is so huge, and that’s the beauty of serving others—the ripple effect,” she says. 

During her time at university, Constance was involved in numerous projects. She participated in Macheo, mentoring and giving back through character talks, revision, and fun activities. With Shining Hope for Communities (Shofco), she mentored high school students in Kibera, while through Child Fund, she mentored both high school and primary school students from different parts of the country. Additionally, she was part of the Community Outreach Programme (COP), which organized mentoring camps to visit various schools and serve vulnerable communities. One of her favorite projects was Songa Mbele na Masomo, where she taught and took care of special needs students, a project under the Sisters of Mercy for Mukuru Promotion Center.

Reflecting on the impact of her work, Constance said, “I have always liked the idea that we sometimes are not aware of the mark we leave because we never know what we do or say impacts someone. But I would say mentoring sheds light that we never knew we carried to other people. I’ve had students and teachers come up to me after a mentoring session to say they found inspiration and they would like us to come back again. To me, that’s the goal at the end of the day because it shows there was a change in perspective.”

Among her service activities, Constance is particularly proud of her involvement with Macheo. She is proud that Macheo gave her mentees, but she prefers to refer to them as friends. She had five of them, and four have gained admission into Strathmore University for different programs. “This year, I have taken up three female high school students. The fact that they did well in their national exams makes my heart full and proud.” Despite facing challenges such as introversion, she overcame them for the love of community service. “Oh my goodness, I’m one of those that get tired of talking. After an interaction, I definitely have to recharge that battery. But for the love of the game, I try to converse and at the same time be myself in the activities.”

Over the years she has picked up a couple of values. “I’ve learned empathy. We’re different, and trying to understand the other person isn’t always easy because we have our familiar ways. Patience is something I’m still learning, especially because I’ve been a person that likes to be prompt and plan. Being around people doesn’t have to be rigid or timetabled. There are times they’ll have to wait for you and other times you wait for them,” she explains.

She believes the University played a crucial role in supporting her service endeavors. “First, the Harambee Scholarship kept me in school, allowing me to join various initiatives. Additionally, the Work-Study Program provided me with an opportunity to work while attending my classes. I worked in the Laboratories Department, which helped me address my financial needs and participate in community service activities. Furthermore, the Community Service Office offered support and invitations to engage in community events. Mr. Luis Borallo, the Director of the Community Service Centre, has profoundly impacted many lives, creating a ripple effect of positive change. We are incredibly grateful for his contributions.”

Balancing academic responsibilities with service work was manageable for her. Most of the activities happened on weekends, so she found it easy to get involved although a few, like camps,  involved being away from class for a few days. She is grateful for her supportive classmates and lecturers who helped her catch up with her studies. During the weekdays, she would gladly plan her schedule to make time for community service.

Community service has significantly shaped her personal and professional goals. “I have grown as a person and continue to grow. Community service has taught me that we don’t need to do big things to support others; it’s the small positive actions that truly matter at the end of the day. Professionally, I have learned that our work creates an impact. We have the responsibility to ensure it’s a positive one because it will positively affect someone else’s life.”

Constance now intends to be involved with the community service initiatives she has been in and more. “I know as I get into the professional life, hours will be limited, but I believe we can always create time to follow up with the good things we do, like serving”. She also intends to keep in touch with the friends she has made, both as mentees and peers, recognizing the mutual learning and growth they share.

Her advice to other students interested in community service is to start early. “There are a number of initiatives that seek to make lives better, and there’s definitely a place for everyone. Every contribution counts, and who knows, one could have just planted a seed and dream somewhere. It’s truly beautiful. The community service office is more than willing to give directions about their initiatives.” Her approach to service and giving back to the community is guided by love. “God invites us to love as He does, with a selfless and unconditional love.”

Receiving the Service to Society Award was an unexpected but welcome honor for Constance. “Well, I didn’t expect that at all, but I received it with immense gratitude and see it  as a blessing. Thanks to the Community Service Office and the Strathmore University fraternity  for the recognition.”

Looking ahead, Constance hopes to leave a legacy of resilience. “Even in the most turbulent times, we can always forge forward and, by the Grace of God, reach what He wills. I hope to leave behind a legacy of hope.”

Article written by Teresa Nekesa