Rooted to Rise: Reflections From the Baobab Summit 2025

From October 17th to 19th, 2025, I had the privilege of being part of the Baobab Summit 2025 in Nairobi, Kenya, an experience that brought together Mastercard Foundation Scholars, alumni, partners, and changemakers from across different communities.

Being selected as an in-person participant through Ashesi University was not only an opportunity to attend a global gathering; it was a moment to reflect on identity, growth, and the responsibility that comes with being part of a larger community.

The theme of the summit, “Rooted to Rise,” stayed with me throughout the experience.

Before we can rise, we must understand our roots: the experiences that shaped us, the challenges that strengthened us, and the communities that continue to support us.

One of the moments I will always remember was standing with my Chadian flag in front of the audience. It was a simple gesture, but it carried a deeper meaning. It represented where I come from, the journey that brought me there, and the importance of seeing our identities as sources of strength rather than limitations.

Throughout the summit, I was reminded that leadership is not only about reaching a destination. It is also about understanding our stories and using them to create opportunities for others.

During the storytelling sessions, listening to scholars share their journeys showed me that behind every person is a story of challenges, resilience, and growth. Many leaders are not shaped by perfect circumstances; they are shaped by the decision to keep moving forward and to use their experiences to make life better for others.

Another lesson that stayed with me was the importance of embracing challenges. Growth rarely happens in comfort. Whether in career development, technology, entrepreneurship, or personal transformation, progress requires curiosity, courage, and the willingness to take the first step even when the path is unclear.

The Digital Fluency and Tech for Good innovation lab particularly resonated with me as a Computer Science student. It reinforced the idea that technology is not only about building systems or learning technical skills; it is about understanding problems, serving communities, and creating solutions that improve people's lives.

The summit reminded me that impact does not begin when we have everything figured out. It begins when we choose to start.

I left Nairobi with a deeper appreciation for my journey, a stronger sense of responsibility, and a renewed commitment to continue learning, building, and contributing.

Grateful for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars community, Ashesi University, and everyone who made this experience possible.

Rooted in where I come from. Growing through every experience. Ready to rise and contribute.