Katanu Kimanzi, Grade 12
​UWCEA (Arusha)

Life is about taking chances. Taking that leap of faith on a path with obstacles you can but evade. UWC has been that path for me. Being a part of this extraordinary movement, with such diverse yet similar people has been exhilarating and life-changing. So what has it been like being at UWCEA? Let me tell you what it has been:
​​Let me tell you what it has been.
​
August 7th, the day it all began,                                                       
The leap of faith I took,
All I had in me was fear,
Wondering within myself
If this place would be my home

Eyes glistening, full of excitement 
Flickers of fear, glimmers of hope
Are all I could see in my co-years;
We had finally made it 
On the journey of a lifetime.

So  different, so diverse
But yet our fear of a new beginning
Made us more alike, connected without knowing.
Seeking comfort in this new chapter of our lives
We had each other to lean on for help

The Acacia House – our boma
Greeted us with great adoration;
“Welcome, my children,” it seemed to say,
Making sure we fit into the community.
UWC made us feel at home.

Town trips, barbeque retreats
Sunny days, playful ways
Swahili lessons, Sable adventures
Many bonds made,
This was our orientation week

Orientation flew by and flew in day one,
First day of school away from home
I was terrified, scared
We all were
And so comfort and solace in our fear

We walked 9km once, the Sun at shining at her best
To meet our counterparts in Moshi
Excitement pumping in our veins
In every step that we took
Our journey ending when we met each other halfway

We’ve celebrated here at home,
Birthdays, independence days
50 years of ISM to UWC day
To simple things like
Cheering a classmate who makes a dinner

East Africa is my home, UWC my destiny
My refuge when I’m in need.
This experience is what I make it,
 I want the world to see
That I am Katanu Kimanzi, and this is my UWC!