Defying Life’s Challenges
Shadrack Kipchirchir Too’s journey is a testament to resilience, courage, and unwavering determination. As the second child in a family of eight, Shadrack is the only one with a disability. Diagnosed with visual impairment at just one year old, he faced significant challenges from a young age. By the time he was three, his father made the tough choice to enroll him in a boarding school for visually impaired children. While this decision was practical, it weighed heavily on his mother, who agreed only reluctantly.
Shadrack’s early school years were filled with hardship. Even though he was surrounded by peers who shared similar challenges, he endured relentless bullying. One particularly traumatic incident involved being beaten with an electric cable, leaving him with emotional scars and doubts about finishing primary school. The matron’s limited supervision during school hours made Shadrack an easy target for bullies, forcing him to mature quickly and learn to defend himself. In the midst of these struggles, he found comfort in the school meals, which provided a small respite in an otherwise harsh environment.
Against all odds, Shadrack thrived academically and moved on to Thika High School for the Blind. There, he found a more inclusive atmosphere where students with and without disabilities interacted. However, even in this relatively supportive environment, he faced subtle stigma, as some non-disabled students kept their distance from their disabled classmates. It was at Thika that Shadrack discovered his love for music, joining the school’s music club—a passion that continues to bring him joy today.
After graduating high school, Shadrack pursued a diploma in resource management at Mount Kenya University. It was during his time on campus that he met Kennedy Okongo, the director of programs at Riziki Source. Inspired by Kennedy’s life skills training sessions, Shadrack was motivated to learn more about Riziki Source.
He not only connected with the organization but also took part in their six-month internship program in the business development department. At Riziki Source, Shadrack discovered a welcoming and supportive work environment where his colleagues embraced him.
Currently juggling his internship with online classes for a bachelor’s degree in public administration, Shadrack continues to challenge societal expectations. He visits Riziki Source twice a week while managing his studies, embodying his belief that disability does not equate to inability. He goes to Riziki Source alone without any company, a testament that he has overcome and continues to overtake challenges that surround him as a person with disability. His message to others is clear: “Push past your limits and excel in whatever situation life presents.”
Shadrack Kipchirchir Too’s life exemplifies resilience and adaptability—a powerful reminder to make the most of what life offers and never allow obstacles to define your potential.
