I was born in 1970, and I started my formal education a little later than most children — I was 14 years old when I began at Equatoria Primary School in 1984. I know that's not the usual age to start, but I never let that discourage me. I always believed that education could lead to a better life, not just for me, but for our society as a whole.
I attended primary school from 1984 to 1991, and then I went on to secondary school from 1992 to 1995. In 1996, I joined the University of Juba, where I studied law, and I graduated around 2000.
In 2001, at the age of 31, I began my teaching career. Over the past 25 years, I have dedicated myself to educating and mentoring young people, and I take pride in knowing that I've played a part in shaping the future of South Sudan.
Now I'm 56, and I'm still teaching. The financial rewards have always been limited, and I haven't had much opportunity to save for my own future. But I've stayed committed to this profession because I believe that serving my nation and educating its children matters more than material wealth.
When I look back on my life, I see perseverance, sacrifice, dignity, and patriotism. If there's one thing I hope others take from my story, it's that it is never too late to pursue an education and that true success isn't only about what you gain for yourself, but about what you give back to others and to your nation.