I don’t know when the fire began. Maybe it was always there—growing quietly, like a seed under the weight of a thousand forgotten dreams. But I remember the night it found its voice. Milwaukee. Cold air, a city buzzing with ambition. I had just left a gathering where young Africans and dreamers from every corner of the world spoke about innovation, home, and everything we could become. It should have left me hopeful. Instead, as I walked alone under the heavy sky, a question found me: "Why do we seem to shine only when we are far from home?" That night, sleep never came. My mind roamed across names etched into the soul of a continent—Thomas Sankara, Kwame Nkrumah, Patrice Lumumba. Giants who dared to dream loudly and paid for it. I wondered if their echoes still mattered, or if the world had taught us to forget. I remember speaking with my mentor days later, my heart full of anger, confusion, and sadness. "How did we get here?" I asked. He looked at me, quietly, almost painfully, and said, "Maybe the real question is what you’ll do now that you see it." I realized then: to see is to be called. It is easy to stay angry. Easy to stay brokenhearted. But real love demands more. Real love demands that you build. That moment split my life in two: before and after. Before, I thought the fight was someone else’s burden. After, I knew it was mine too. I don’t just want better schools or better leaders or stronger systems. I want to restore something deeper: BELIEF!!! The kind of belief that tells a young boy in Kigali, a girl in Douala, a dreamer in Lagos that they do not need to become someone else to be enough. That their mother tongues are beautiful. That their dreams are valid. That Africa is not a place you escape from—it is a place you rise with. This is not a project for me. It’s personal. It’s the faces of my friends back home who might never get the tools to dream as big as they deserve. It’s the memory of my father’s journey across countries and deserts, chasing a sliver of hope. It’s every child who has ever been told they are “less” because of where they come from. This experience reshaped everything I aspire to become. I no longer dream just for myself; I dream for a generation. I hope to honor this calling by dedicating my life to building strong, respected institutions in Africa, nurturing young innovators, and proving, through my work, my choices, and my persistence, that believing in ourselves is not naïve, but necessary. I know I am one person. I know change is slow, stubborn, and thankless. But I am willing to be part of the quiet, determined work. The kind that may never make headlines, but that, one day, will make history. I am willing to build with bloody hands if it means someone else can climb higher. I am willing to dream even when the world says it's foolish. Because someone once dreamed for me. And dreams, once born, refuse to die. That night in Milwaukee, my mentor’s words taught me that real change doesn’t begin with policies or revolutions. It begins quietly—in the heart of one person who dares to see, to care, and to act. When history looks back, I do not want it to say he waited. I want it to say, he saw—and he dared to believe anyway.

I don’t remember when the obsession started, but I remember the feeling. That fire in my chest each time I thought about Africa—not just its beauty and brilliance, but the weight of its potential slipping through our fingers. It hit me hardest one evening in Milwaukee, after an event filled with sharp, passionate African and other students like myself. We had shared stories of innovation and struggle, of ideas that could change the world. But as I walked home, a question gnawed at me: "Why do we only seem to flourish when we’re far from home?" That night, I couldn’t sleep. My mind traveled through memories and names—Thomas Sankara, Nkwame Nkrumah, Patrice Lumumba, Nelson Mandela. Leaders who dreamt fiercely, who believed we could rise with our own minds, hands, and hearts. I thought about how their lives ended, how their dreams were silenced too soon. I asked myself, "Would their voices still matter today?" One evening, I found myself deep in a conversation with my mentor. I was ranting about why some of the brightest students I knew back home may never get the tools to dream big, about how friends who studied abroad never returned, about how we laughed at the universities in our countries but celebrated when someone got into Harvard. Then I paused and asked, “How did we get here?” He replied to me and said, “Maybe the question is not how, but what you're going to do now that you see it?” That night changed me. I stopped complaining and started dreaming. I began to see this problem not just as a tragedy but as a mission. I realized I'm obsessed with giving young Africans something deeper than education. I want to restore belief. One where being African isn’t something we recover from but something we rise with. I want a generation that is proud to graduate from universities in Africa because they are respected. I want children who grow up speaking their mother tongues, building robots, performing dances, planting crops, and writing poetry—inspired by who they are, not who the world says they should be. Where our leaders don’t lead for power but for purpose. This is not just a passion. It’s personal. In high school, I co-founded our high school science and tech club with friends. We didn’t have fancy labs, but we had ideas. We built an automatic handwashing machine after COVID and won a national prize. We didn’t do it for fame but because our community needed it. We later built a self-driving car prototype, just to show what was possible when you believe and build. It was in those moments, soldering wires and sharing late-night laughs, that I discovered a simple truth: It all starts with what’s in our hearts. We don’t have to wait for change; we have to start by changing ourselves—we can create it, no matter how young or “insignificant” we think we are. I know I can’t do this alone, and I know change won’t come overnight. But I’m willing to be part of the slow, stubborn work of driving change. Like someone once told me, “No one who plants the seed may enjoy its fruit, for their joy is in planting.” There will be my joy and achievement, and I'm ready to do whatever humanly possible to make it happen. The one who dares to believe that tomorrow can be better will make it better. And if I can help even one person see the greatness within them, then I'm good and when history looks back, I want it to say: he didn’t wait—he built.

I am a passionate, determined individual from Cameroon with an unyielding love for technology and problem-solving. Growing up, my parents worked tirelessly as humble peasants, always teaching me that hard work and perseverance could overcome any challenge. This mindset has been my guiding force throughout my educational journey. From a young age, I was captivated by the power of technology to solve problems, and it led me to pursue a degree in Data Science. In high school, I was fortunate to co-found a start-up with close friends, stemming from our school’s Science and Technology Club. Our mission was to solve basic community problems using Technology. We worked on a variety of projects, the most notable being the development of our school’s website and a self-driven car that used the principle of Ultrasonic waves. This was a turning point in my life—it was the first time I realized how technology could directly impact lives and improve everyday systems. We participated in the SIPROME competition, where we won a 2M FCFA prize, validating our hard work and igniting my passion for innovation. Academically, I have always been focused on understanding the inner workings of data, and pursuing a degree in Data Science is a natural extension of this curiosity. I’m particularly drawn to data analytics, machine learning, and data visualization, as these fields have the potential to change how we approach and solve problems. I am passionate about using data to improve systems in sectors like education, healthcare, and business development. Through my education, I hope to acquire the knowledge and skills to tackle some of the challenges facing my community and others like it globally. However, my journey has not been without its hurdles. Coming from a family with limited financial resources, I have always had to work hard to support myself. My aunt, who was initially sponsoring my studies, faced financial challenges of her own and could no longer continue her support. Faced with the prospect of leaving my studies behind, I took out a student loan for the spring semester, hoping that I could continue my education. However, as an international student, I am ineligible for FAFSA, and without a cosigner or a strong credit history, I have been unable to secure additional funding. This has created significant stress and has made it difficult to focus fully on my studies and aspirations. Yet, it is precisely in these moments of uncertainty that I find my true strength. This struggle has also reinforced my drive to succeed. Instead of being overwhelmed, I’ve looked for ways to alleviate my financial burdens, from seeking out scholarships to finding part-time opportunities. The resilience I learned from my parents has fueled my determination to find a way to continue my studies and build the future I know is possible. The relief from this financial strain would enable me to invest in opportunities that align with my career goals such as internships, research projects, and skill-building workshops. While financial challenges have certainly made my journey more difficult, they have also made me stronger, more resourceful, and more determined to push through. Every obstacle I’ve faced has only intensified my desire to create meaningful change, not just for myself but for others. With the opportunity to continue my education with less financial worry, I would dive even deeper into the pursuit of knowledge, using every lesson and experience to fuel the mission of improving lives and creating lasting change through data science.

I come from a family of resilience and sacrifice. My parents, originally from Rwanda, fled the 1994 genocide and sought refuge in Cameroon. They arrived with nothing but hope for a better future, and despite the struggles, they prioritized giving us the best education they could afford. Their sacrifices and unwavering support have shaped me into who I am today. I am the elder brother of Noella and the younger brother of Marie Chantal. We also had another sister, Claudine, who sadly passed away last summer. Losing her was a painful experience, but her kindness and strength continue to inspire me. She taught me to appreciate the people around me and to always offer a helping hand whenever I can. Of all the people in my life, my greatest source of inspiration is my father. His journey was one of unimaginable hardship: walking for more than ten years before reaching Cameroon, doing everything he could to provide for us. Despite his struggles, he remained humble, kind, and always willing to help others. He taught me that hard work and perseverance define a person more than their circumstances. No matter how difficult things became, he never gave up, and that mindset has shaped the way I approach life. Though my roots are in Rwanda, Cameroon allowed me to become who I am today. Growing up in Cameroon, I developed a deep passion for science and technology. In high school, I co-founded a start-up with my close friends, an idea that grew from our Science and Technology Club. As the club president for two years, we worked on various projects, including an automatic water dispenser to maintain hygiene after COVID-19 and a self-driving obstacle detection car during our final year. We also competed in national competitions\tech summits like SIPROME(International Forum for Youth Entrepreneurship), where we won a prize of 2M FCFA or the CITS24(Cameroon International Tech Summit). These experiences showed me the power of innovation in solving real-world problems and motivated me to seek an education that would challenge and refine my abilities. The United States, with its vast resources and commitment to innovation, represents the place where I can grow not just as a student but as a man. The decision to pursue higher education in the United States was driven by my desire to push myself further. The country’s emphasis on research and innovation aligns perfectly with my ambitions, and I am eager to be part of an environment that challenges and inspires me. One of the greatest challenges I faced was losing my sponsorship for education. My parents, who had already sacrificed so much, could not support me financially, yet I refused to let this setback define my future. I took a loan and now am actively seeking out opportunities, navigating scholarships, and remaining committed to my academic goals. This experience reinforces my determination, teaching me that setbacks are not the end; they are opportunities to grow and that with God everything is possible as long as you give it your all. "Work as if everything depends on yourself, and pray as if everything depends on God" My dad always told us. After graduation, I plan to use my expertise in data science to create technology-driven solutions that address real-world problems, particularly in underserved communities. I want to contribute to technological advancements that improve lives, focusing on areas like healthcare, education, and economic development, both in Africa and beyond. My journey has given me a deep appreciation for resilience, knowledge, and service. I want to honor the sacrifices made for me by giving back in every way I can.

Change is a constant force in my life, and I am determined to harness it for personal growth, academic success, and to create a positive impact on the world around me. From my humble beginnings in Cameroon to navigating the challenges of studying abroad, my desire to make a meaningful difference has been the driving force behind everything I do. I want to create a future where I not only succeed but use my success to help others, especially those from backgrounds like mine who face their own obstacles. Growing up, I saw how limited access to technology and resources could stifle opportunities. It was through the struggles of my family that I realized the power of education and innovation in changing lives. This realization led me to pursue a degree in Data Science, as I believe data has the potential to unlock solutions to some of the world’s most pressing problems. From improving healthcare in underserved communities to creating opportunities in small business development, I see technology as a bridge to a better future. I want to use my skills to make those dreams a reality, both for myself and for others. To make this change a reality, I have already taken several significant steps. I co-founded a start-up in high school, using technology to solve local problems, such as developing a website and electronic payment platform for my school. This experience not only taught me valuable technical skills but also the power of collaboration and problem-solving. I have sought out scholarships, engaged in part-time work, and built a strong academic foundation to propel myself toward my goals. Every challenge I’ve faced, particularly financial ones, has only strengthened my resolve to continue my education and make a difference. This scholarship would be instrumental in helping me take the next step in my journey. It would allow me to focus more on my studies without the constant worry about financial barriers, giving me the freedom to pursue additional academic opportunities, internships, and projects that will shape my future career. With fewer financial constraints, I would be able to dedicate more time to developing the technical and professional skills necessary to use data science to tackle challenges in healthcare, education, and business. But the change I wish to make isn’t just about my own growth—it’s about lifting others as I rise. I am committed to paying it forward by using my education to help others, especially those who may not have access to the same opportunities. In the future, I plan to mentor students who are passionate about technology but face the same financial struggles that I have encountered. I want to guide them, help them find resources, and empower them to pursue their dreams, just as I have done despite the challenges. Additionally, I hope to launch projects that make technology more accessible in underserved communities. Whether through creating educational tools, providing mentorship in data science, or supporting small businesses with innovative solutions, I want to ensure that the opportunities I’ve had are available to others. The change I want to make is one that goes beyond my own life—it’s about creating a ripple effect that empowers others to reach their full potential. This scholarship is not just a stepping stone for me; it is an opportunity to transform my education into a tool for social change. It will help me grow, it will help me thrive, and it will allow me to help others do the same.

I am a passionate, determined individual from Cameroon with an unyielding love for technology and problem-solving. Growing up, my parents worked tirelessly as humble peasants, always teaching me that hard work and perseverance could overcome any challenge. This mindset has been my guiding force throughout my educational journey. From a young age, I was captivated by the power of technology to solve problems, and it led me to pursue a degree in Data Science. In high school, I was fortunate to co-found a start-up with close friends, stemming from our school’s Science and Technology Club. Our mission was to solve basic community problems using Technology. We worked on a variety of projects, the most notable being the development of our school’s website and a self-driven car that used the principle of Ultrasonic waves. This was a turning point in my life—it was the first time I realized how technology could directly impact lives and improve everyday systems. We participated in the SIPROME competition, where we won a 2M FCFA prize, validating our hard work and igniting my passion for innovation. Academically, I have always been focused on understanding the inner workings of data, and pursuing a degree in Data Science is a natural extension of this curiosity. I’m particularly drawn to data analytics, machine learning, and data visualization, as these fields have the potential to change how we approach and solve problems. I am passionate about using data to improve systems in sectors like education, healthcare, and business development. Through my education, I hope to acquire the knowledge and skills to tackle some of the challenges facing my community and others like it globally. However, my journey has not been without its hurdles. Coming from a family with limited financial resources, I have always had to work hard to support myself. My aunt, who was initially sponsoring my studies, faced financial challenges of her own and could no longer continue her support. Faced with the prospect of leaving my studies behind, I took out a student loan for the spring semester, hoping that I could continue my education. However, as an international student, I am ineligible for FAFSA, and without a cosigner or a strong credit history, I have been unable to secure additional funding. This has created significant stress and has made it difficult to focus fully on my studies and aspirations. Yet, it is precisely in these moments of uncertainty that I find my true strength. This struggle has also reinforced my drive to succeed. Instead of being overwhelmed, I’ve looked for ways to alleviate my financial burdens, from seeking out scholarships to finding part-time opportunities. The resilience I learned from my parents has fueled my determination to find a way to continue my studies and build the future I know is possible. If I am able to pay down my student loans, the savings would allow me to focus entirely on my academic and professional development. The relief from this financial strain would enable me to invest in opportunities that align with my career goals such as internships, research projects, and skill-building workshops. While financial challenges have certainly made my journey more difficult, they have also made me stronger, more resourceful, and more determined to push through. Every obstacle I’ve faced has only intensified my desire to create meaningful change, not just for myself but for others. With the opportunity to continue my education with less financial worry, I would dive even deeper into the pursuit of knowledge, using every lesson and experience to fuel the mission of improving lives and creating lasting change through data science.

My Goals and Plans to Achieve Them My primary goal is to become a skilled data scientist with expertise in solving real-world problems using data-driven approaches. I aim to leverage my knowledge in data science and technology to innovate and build impactful solutions, particularly in areas such as business optimization, automation, and community development. To achieve this, I have structured a comprehensive plan that includes academic preparation, skill development, professional experience, and financial management. The foundation of my journey is obtaining a bachelor's degree in Data Science at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. This program will equip me with a strong understanding of programming, statistical analysis, machine learning, and data visualization—key components of a successful data science career. To complement my coursework, I will: Enhance My Coding Skills – I plan to master Python, SQL, and R, which are essential for data science. I will utilize platforms like DataCamp for hands-on practice. Engage in Research and Projects – I will actively participate in university-led research projects and collaborate with professors and peers to solve data-driven problems. Earn Certifications – To strengthen my credibility, I will pursue certifications like Google Data Analytics, AWS Certified Machine Learning, and TensorFlow Developer. Contribute to Open Source and Hackathons – Engaging in open-source projects and participating in hackathons will help me sharpen my skills while networking with industry professionals. Professional Growth and Work Experience While studying, I plan to gain industry experience through internships and part-time jobs. I have already secured a job at Clic Dev Consulting, which will provide practical exposure to real-world IT and data-related projects. Additionally, I will apply for internships in companies specializing in artificial intelligence, data analytics, and business intelligence. Beyond internships, I aim to enhance my leadership and entrepreneurial abilities. In high school, I co-founded a start-up with my close friends, evolving from a Science and Technology club. This experience honed my problem-solving and business skills. I will continue developing entrepreneurial projects, potentially launching a data-driven start-up in the future. Pursuing my goals requires careful financial planning. My tuition fees at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee are approximately $25,000 per year. Living expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation, and other necessities, will cost around $12,000 annually. Seek Scholarships and Assistantships I will apply for merit-based scholarships and research assistant positions to ease the financial burden. Optimize My Earnings My job at Clic Dev Consulting, combined with internships, will provide additional income to support my expenses and savings. 2024-2028: Complete my bachelor’s degree while gaining work experience through internships and part-time jobs. 2026: Obtain professional certifications and participate in major data science competitions. 2027: Begin working on independent research or a start-up project. 2028: Secure a full-time role in a leading tech company or launch my own data-driven business. 2030 and Beyond: Pursue a master’s degree or advanced certifications, continuously upskilling while contributing to technological advancements. Alternative Paths and Contingency Plans While my primary path is to excel in data science through education and work experience, I am open to alternative routes, such as: Transitioning into AI research if I develop a strong inclination for academia. Pivoting to business analytics or entrepreneurship if I find my start-up more promising. Exploring global job opportunities if the market in the U.S. becomes highly competitive. Achieving my goals requires a combination of academic excellence, skill development, professional experience, and financial discipline. With a well-structured plan, I am confident in my ability to navigate challenges and succeed in the dynamic field of data science. My journey is driven by a passion for technology and innovation, and I am committed to making a meaningful impact through data-driven solutions.

To me, success is more than just achieving personal milestones—it’s about using my passion and skills to make a meaningful impact on others. It means looking back and knowing that my work has brought positive change, whether in my community, the tech industry, or the world at large. My journey so far has been shaped by a deep curiosity, a drive to solve problems, and an ambition to build something that lasts. My passion for technology and problem-solving started in high school when my friends and I co-founded a start-up born from our experiences in the Science and Technology club. We wanted to use innovation to address real issues, and that vision led us to create projects like our school’s website and an electronic payment platform. When we participated in competitions such as ‘SIPROME,’ winning 2M FCFA, we realized just how much potential our ideas had. That experience reinforced my belief that technology is a powerful tool for change. As I now pursue a degree in Data Science at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, I see success as continuous growth—both academically and personally. My current job at Clic Dev Consulting has given me valuable industry exposure, allowing me to refine my skills and understand real-world applications of data science. But I know that to reach my full potential, I need more—more learning, more mentorship, and more opportunities to collaborate with experts and like-minded peers. This opportunity is crucial to my journey. It will provide me with access to advanced knowledge, an inspiring network, and the resources needed to sharpen my expertise. Through this experience, I hope to gain insights that will allow me to develop scalable solutions to complex problems, especially those affecting underrepresented communities. I believe that data science has the power to shape the future, from optimizing healthcare systems to improving educational access, and I want to be at the forefront of that transformation. My ultimate goal is to establish a technology-driven enterprise that not only furthers my career but also makes a difference in society. I want to use my skills to develop innovative solutions that address pressing issues, inspire others, and create opportunities for people who may not have access to technological advancements. For me, success is not just about individual accomplishments but about uplifting those around me and leaving a lasting impact. Beyond technical skills, I believe success is also about leadership and resilience. I want to grow as a problem-solver and an innovator, someone who can navigate challenges with creativity and determination. This opportunity will help me cultivate those qualities, equipping me with the confidence to take risks, lead projects, and drive meaningful change. With this opportunity, I will be one step closer to turning my vision into reality. It will enable me to build on my foundation, challenge myself, and gain the tools I need to become a leader in my field. Success is about perseverance, learning, and making a difference—and I am ready to embrace every challenge and opportunity that comes my way. In the long term, I envision a future where I not only contribute to technological advancements but also mentor and support the next generation of innovators. Success, to me, is about creating a ripple effect—empowering others to chase their dreams, build solutions, and leave their mark on the world. This opportunity will be a crucial step toward that goal, and I am eager to make the most of it.