Meet Solomon: A Story of Hope

Born into a Maasai family in Amboseli, Kenya, Solomon Meiseyieki Ntarku lost his mother at just 12 years old. He could have dropped out—as many Maasai children facing hardship unfortunately do. But one O.A.T. traveler noticed his determination. She partnered with Grand Circle Foundation to support Solomon with a scholarship.

This is Solomon’s story.

“My journey reminds me that when one child is given a chance, an entire community can benefit.”
— Solomon Meiseyieki Ntarku,
Information & Communication Technology (ICT) teacher

My name is Solomon Meiseyieki Ntarkau. I was born and raised in Amboseli, Kenya, in a humble Maasai family. I come from a polygamous family where my father had three wives, and my mother was the second wife. Life was never easy. We faced many hardships, but despite the challenges, my parents taught us the values of respect, resilience, and hard work.

The greatest turning point in my childhood came when I was in Class Seven at Amboseli Primary School. My mother, who had always been my greatest source of love, encouragement, and hope, passed away. Losing her was the most painful experience of my life. It felt as though my dreams had died with her. She was the person who believed in me most, and after her death, I was left wondering whether I would ever finish school.

Ever since I was a young boy, I believed education was the only path that could transform my life and help me break the cycle of poverty. Even when circumstances became difficult, I never stopped believing that one day I would succeed. My dream was not only to change my own life but also to become someone who could uplift my family and my community.

Bridging despair and hope

The support from Grand Circle Foundation has transformed countless lives in Amboseli, including mine. It has given children from vulnerable families an opportunity to dream beyond their circumstances. Many students who would have dropped out of school have completed their education because someone believed in them.

For me, Grand Circle Foundation became the bridge between despair and hope. Through the support I received, I completed my secondary education and earned a mean grade of C (Plain). That achievement became the foundation for everything that followed.

Their investment has not only educated individuals but has also created future teachers, health workers, community leaders, and professionals who are now giving back to society.

After my mother's death, many people expected my education to end. But because of my discipline, Madam Ann Tayia noticed my determination and chose to support me. Through her, I received a scholarship from Grand Circle Foundation, which enabled me to complete secondary school.

Later, another well-wisher paid for my diploma education. Then, through the kindness of Mama Sandra, another opportunity came into my life. I enrolled at Lukenya University, where I pursued my bachelor's degree.

Last year, I proudly graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Community Development, earning Second Class Upper Division. Every time I wear my graduation gown, I remember my mother and everyone who believed in me when I had almost lost hope.

Skills that inspire

I discovered my passion for computers while I was at university. During my studies, I realized that many students wasted a lot of their free time, and I wanted to use mine to learn something that would make a difference in my future. I enrolled in several free online computer courses through Alison, an online learning platform that offers quality education. Although certificates require payment, the knowledge I gained was priceless.

My interest grew even stronger during my university research project. I spent many hours typing documents, formatting reports, inserting tables, charts, and figures, and using different computer applications. Instead of seeing it as a burden, I found myself enjoying every part of the process. That experience opened my eyes to the endless possibilities that technology offers.

After graduating, I decided to continue learning by studying Computer Graphics Design. Today, I can design posters, certificates, logos, banners, invitations, and many other digital materials. I believe technology is a powerful tool that can transform lives, and I want to use my skills to inspire and equip the next generation with digital knowledge.

My passion for computers began when I realized that technology was becoming an essential part of education and everyday life. I became fascinated by how computers could help people learn, communicate, solve problems, and connect with opportunities around the world.

As I continued with my studies, I knew that computer skills would be important not only for my own career but also for empowering other young people in my community.

Where dreams are beginning

The technology lab is not just a room with computers—it is a place where dreams are beginning. Many of the students at Amboseli Lewis Senior Secondary School never imagined they would have access to a modern computer laboratory because such facilities are usually found only in larger schools in towns and cities.

Now they feel proud and confident. One student told me something I will never forget:

"Do you know, Mwalimu, now when we go home we can challenge students from Olkejuado High School because even those of us from the bush are good in technology."

Those words touched my heart because they showed that the computer lab has given students more than computer skills—it has given them confidence, dignity, and the courage to dream bigger. They now believe they can compete with any student, regardless of where they come from.

One student who has inspired me is Peter Lemaron. Before joining our computer lessons, Peter had never used a laptop in his life. Like many students from our community, technology was something he had only heard about.

After his first lesson, he was full of excitement. He came to me and said:

"Teacher, please give us more computer lessons because in the future I want to become an ICT teacher just like you. I am really motivated by the way you teach."

Those words deeply moved me. Seeing Peter's confidence grow from fear to excitement reminded me why education and technology matter so much. Today, he is eager to learn every new computer skill, and his dream of becoming an ICT teacher shows how one opportunity can completely change a young person's vision for the future.

No dream is impossible

My journey reminds me that when one child is given a chance, an entire community can benefit.

My dream is to continue my education by pursuing a Master's degree. I also want to dedicate my life to community development, youth empowerment, and creating opportunities for vulnerable children, especially those who, like me, have experienced loss and hardship.

I want every child in Amboseli to know that their background does not determine their future. With education, determination, and the support of people who care, impossible dreams can become reality.

Today, when I look back, I realize my story is not simply about overcoming poverty. It is a story about compassion, faith, and people who chose to invest in a young boy's future. Because they believed in me, I now believe it is my responsibility to help others believe in themselves.

Visit the Amboseli community and see firsthand what Grand Circle Foundation has accomplished during Kenya & Tanzania Safari: Masai Mara to the Serengeti. To learn more about the Foundation or donate to any projects we support, visit www.grandcirclefoundation.org.