Rising above adversity in a journey of self confidence
Emmanuel Anur (South Sudan), KAS Scholar and YPMP Alumnus
Not so long ago, my country, South Sudan, was engulfed in brutal conflict in 2016 when key political figures—President Salva Kiir and his then Vice President, now First Vice President, Riek Machar—fell apart over critical political disagreements. At that time, I had just graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Agribusiness from Nkumba University. My hope for a bright future was shattered. My first entry job with Plan International, a child rights organization, ended due to nationwide tension and insecurity resulting from the conflict.
As I tried to piece my life back together, another challenge emerged in 2020: the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many countries, South Sudan adopted stringent preventive and mitigation measures, which created additional hurdles for an already fragile nation. However, this was a turning point for me. It was a moment where I learned to adapt to a new way of life, to face challenges head-on, and to turn adversity into opportunity. This mindset became my mantra and my greatest instrument as a first-generation graduate.
Living in a conflict-ravaged country, the collective thirst for peace surpassed all else. It was everyone’s dream to see South Sudan thriving in peace, with its citizens succeeding. This environment motivated me to contribute my knowledge and skills through volunteerism. It was during this time that I learned about the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) programs in both South Sudan and Uganda. I was fortunate to volunteer under a KAS-supported program in Yei in 2018. This experience was transformative, giving me a platform to engage and learn despite the challenges surrounding me.
In 2020, KAS announced a call for master’s scholarship applications. I saw this as an opportunity to prove to myself that I could rise above self-doubt and seize opportunities instead of postponing them. With renewed confidence and focus, I submitted my application. To my joy, I was shortlisted, interviewed, and ultimately awarded the prestigious KAS scholarship to pursue a Master’s Degree in Development Studies at Uganda Martyrs University.
KAS played a pivotal role in redesigning and rebranding my personal and professional journey. Their belief in my potential during a global health emergency, the COVID-19 pandemic, was one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life. Through their support, I have grown exponentially, both personally and professionally. I have explored numerous opportunities and enrolled in programs that have enriched my academic and professional profile.
Witnessing the strong partnership between KAS and The Igoye Young Professional Mentorship Institute through its flagship initiative the Young Professional Mentorship Program (YPMP) is a remarkable experience. At YPMP, the nine month mentorship journey challenged me to be a relevant community leader through the different volunteer activities and my network of constructive people has grown. I am deeply grateful to the management of both YPMP and KAS for their invaluable contributions to my growth.
As I eagerly await my graduation in 2025, I reflect on how none of this would have been possible without the generous support of Konrad Adenauer Stiftung. They have invested in young leaders and Africa’s human resource, demonstrating the transformative power of education and mentorship.
Thank you, KAS and YPMP, for believing in me and equipping me to face challenges with self-confidence and focus. You have given me the tools to rebuild my life and inspire others in the process.
Peace!!
Emmanuel Anur (South Sudan), KAS Scholar and YPMP Alumnus
