In a world often consumed by fleeting ambitions, the enduring legacy of the Late William Thomas Ombaka Oburu stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity. His family, in an extraordinary gesture of generosity, has established the William Thomas Ombaka Oburu Endowment Fund with an initial contribution of Kshs. 1,110,000.

This fund, entrusted to Strathmore University, is a tribute to William’s remarkable life and values and a commitment to nurturing young minds and creating pathways for success.

The endowment fund aims to support financially disadvantaged students who embody William’s principles of perseverance, compassion, and a commitment to excellence. “William believed in the potential of every individual, regardless of their circumstances, and was deeply committed to making the world a better place. It was his dream to see young minds grow, thrive, and achieve their fullest potential,” said Dr. Peter Oburu, William’s brother and an alumnus of Strathmore School.

Dr. Edward Mungai (right) and Dr. Peter Oburu (left) put pen to paper, establishing the endowment fund

The scholarship, announced on December 11, 2024, will benefit students pursuing Bachelor of Commerce, Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Hotel Management, and Bachelor of Tourism Management. “William’s life was filled with profound marketing ideas, making it fitting that this scholarship supports students in marketing and hospitality programs, reflecting his vision,” Dr. Oburu noted during the presentation.

Accompanied by his parents, Solomon and Peres Oburu, and siblings Millicent Onyonyi, Paul Oburu, Pamella Ager, and Dr. Ezekiel Oburu, (Strathmore School Alumnus), Dr. Peter Oburu, said the fund is not about monetary assistance but about giving hope, fostering ambition and perpetuating the ripple effect of kindness and opportunity that William embodied.

“It is our hope that the Endowment Fund will carry William’s legacy forward. The beneficiaries should embrace his values, work hard, and make the most of this opportunity while paying it forward to others,” shared Pamella Ager, William’s sister.

In addition to the scholarship, the family has introduced an annual prize of Kshs. 50,000 to recognize the best marketing student, honoring William’s passion and excellence in the field.

The Oburu family chose Strathmore University as a partner for its unwavering commitment to ethical practice and excellence. “Strathmore’s values and ethos reassure us that this fund will benefit society and reflect William’s kindness, dedication, and passion,” said Solomon Oburu, William’s father.

Solomon Oburu (left) shares a heartfelt moment with Prof. David Sperling, reminiscing about the day he entrusted Strathmore School with shaping the futures of his sons.

Dr. Edward Mungai, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Partnerships and Development, expressed gratitude for the family’s trust, highlighting the significance of alumni contributions in shaping the university’s future. “At Strathmore, 17% of our students currently benefit from scholarships, and this fund brings us closer to our target of supporting 25% of our community,” he said.

Born on July 2, 1977, William pursued his undergraduate degree in marketing at USIU and later a master’s degree in international trade. He excelled professionally in Kenya at organizations such as General Motors, Kenya Wildlife Service, and the Kenya Tourism Board, before assuming senior marketing roles in Dubai’s real estate sector.

His life, though tragically cut short on August 2, 2023, remains a testament to the power of perseverance, compassion, and a relentless drive for excellence. The William Thomas Ombaka Oburu Endowment Fund ensures that his values continue to inspire and empower future generations.

The fund presentation was graced by university representatives, including Eric Saulo, Director of Partnerships and Internationalization, Elias Kaburu, Director, Alumni Relations, Gloria Ocholla, and Antony Hayanga, Development Managers, Strathmore University Foundation, and Annita Mwaniki, Manager, Alumni Relations among others.

Article written by Stephen Wakhu