“You can’t be an elegant man and leave confidence behind.” 

Meet  Clintone Ojina, an elegant, confident and vocal Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management (BTM) graduate with a passion for politics. He asserts that elegance and confidence must go together. Born and raised in Uganda, Clintone’s journey led him to Strathmore University where he thrives academically and nurtures his leadership aspirations. Join us as we delve into Clintone’s academic journey and uncover the experiences that have shaped his ambitions.

Fresh out of high school and brimming with excitement for the future, Clintone received an inspiring suggestion from his uncle, a proud Strathmore University alumnus. His uncle proposed that Clintone follow in his footsteps and consider applying to the esteemed institution. With this aspiration firmly planted in his mind, Clintone immersed himself in thorough research about the university and took the initiative to complete the application process for his BTM degree, a course he was interested in, set to begin in March 2020. Unfortunately, the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted his plans, leading Clintone and his peers to adapt to virtual learning for their first year and part of their second year before finally transitioning to in-person classes later on.

Pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management (BTM), he initially thought the course was solely about travelling. However, after several classes, he realised that tourism is a vast industry with much more to offer. His decision to pursue the course was entirely self-driven; he wanted to do it and enjoyed it. 

As a student-athlete actively involved in Strathmore’s Soccer Team (Bravehearts), balancing sports and academics was challenging. “The coach needs you to be in training, but there are pending assignments and upcoming CATS. Travelling over the weekend for a game and still having to come back early for an exam the next week,” Clintone reflects on these past hurdles. To manage this, sometimes he had to take flights or apply for special papers to ensure that he still pushed the academic barrel. In line with his soccer journey at Strathmore University, he was the assistant soccer captain in his second year where he led his team to success, attaining the number one position at the National KUSA Games in 2021 and was later promoted to captain in his third year. 

Aside from the tourism industry, Clintone has his eyes on leadership and politics. “Leadership is not something I just thought of today; it started even in high school,” he says confidently. At Strathmore, he is not only the class representative but also an active member of the Strathmore Student Council. His roles include Chair of the Public Relations Senate of the 13th Student Council, Chair of the Sports Senate of the 14th Student Council, and currently Head of the Senate of the Secretary General of the 15th Student Council. He was also a dedicated member of the debate club, art club, and presidential awards club. In the realm of politics, Clintone looks up to several political leaders. What motivates Clintone? “I’m called Clintone, after Bill Clinton, who was once a president of the United States of America, and that motivates me a lot.” Spearheading this journey with the aim of shaping Kenya’s political landscape, he subtly mentions his active participation in the current #RejectFinanceBill2024 protests. “If you don’t become the change, the change you want cannot take place.”

Clintone’s future in the tourism industry looks promising. He secured an attachment position at Somak Safaris Luxury Travel Kenya, one of the country’s largest tour companies, where he completed his work-based learning. Currently, he is working at Kenya Wilderness Safaris, hoping to gain extensive experience at various companies before eventually starting his own tour company.

Speaking of achievements, Clintone’s participation in the Middle East and Africa Future Leaders Challenge 2024 was a testament to his exceptional abilities and forward-thinking mindset. As one of the top performers in the Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management  (BTM) course, he was selected to compete in this prestigious event. The participants were tasked with the challenge of integrating information technology into the hospitality and tourism industry without replacing manpower, Clintone’s team designed an innovative app that achieved this delicate balance. Their innovative solution earned them an impressive second place in the final round held in Dubai, marking a significant achievement in Clintone’s flourishing career.

The most important life lessons he has learned at Strathmore University? He acknowledges that the system at Strathmore is highly effective and appreciates that if someone can’t help you, they will refer you to someone who can. Additionally, he praises the concept of community over competition, crediting the campus for fostering an environment where all students are seen as equals.

Clintone Ojina  has proven to be a well-rounded student who excels not only in academics but also in sports and leadership. It’s safe to say that he has successfully fulfilled his #SUexperience.

Article written by Margaret Shakeel.