Every child needs an advocate because they cannot look after their own interests. I get excited whenever I meet someone who is working with children.
Mohammed Hassan Jimale, a fearless young leader from Somalia, has children written all over him. His face glows at the mention of kids.
He has worked with various NGOs and many organizations that target the most vulnerable children. His interest is in offering psychological programs and in engaging the community in issues that affect children such as early marriages and gender sensitization.
When I was growing up I witnessed a lot of suffering by children as a result of the war in Somalia. Most of them were rendered homeless, orphans and subjected to extreme poverty and lack of education. I lost my mother at the age of seven and the only adult figure was my grandmother who was too old to manage life. They say it does not rain forever. I am grateful for being able to access my education in both Kenya and Somalia to university level.
Through volunteering and working for various organizations, they have educated over 6,000 children. He is also a YALI E.A Alumnus.
Africans will have massive progress when we unite. As young leaders, we should intend to learn the art of seizing opportunities and developing our interpersonal and leadership skills.
Jimale’s vision is to run a top position in an international organization and manage projects that address helpless children.
I am constantly working on improving my skills. My calling is a big one. To help educate the next emerging crop of leaders. They are the future of Africa and we must teach them to be patriotic to their countries and to love themselves ever so.
