DAISY MUYEKHO
In this presentation, I'm excited to share my heritage story, who I am, and where I come from. We'll journey through my cultural traditions and the values that have shaped my identity. By sharing my story, I hope to celebrate the unique aspects of my background and give you a glimpse into the rich heritage that has influenced my life.
"A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin, and culture is like a tree without roots."
— Marcus Garvey
CULTURAL TRADITIONS AND PRACTICES
I take pride in being part of the Luhya tribe, one of Kenya's largest ethnic groups from the vibrant western region. Our rich cultural heritage includes traditions, holidays, and customs passed down through generations. The most significant celebrations include the annual circumcision ceremony which is characterized by vibrant dances, singing, and communal feasts featuring ‘Busaa,’ a local brew. Traditional foods such as ugali, sukuma wiki, and chicken stew are staples, and our attire often includes colorful kitenge fabrics. Music is integral, with instruments like the ‘litungu’ and ‘isukuti’ drums. In my family, Christmas, Easter, and New Year are major celebrations, where we gather, enjoy African dishes, and see my dad's amazing breakdance moves. We uphold strong Christian values, praying together every evening and attending church every Sunday.
MY PERSONAL JOURNEY
Growing up in the warm, tight-knit Luhya community, I learned the value of hard work and never giving up from a young age. It's like a saying we have - life throws punches, but you gotta learn to dodge and weave! I've always loved learning, as much as the endless sky stretches over Africa. With the unwavering support from my parents, I went to Kenyatta University and got my bachelor's degree in education . Teaching was a calling for me, a chance to give back and light a fire for learning in young minds. I started as a Math and Chemistry teacher and later became an AI Tutor Domain Expert. Each step, from figuring out the best ways to teach to diving into the world of AI, has been a stepping stone that shaped who I am today. It's taught me purpose, and resilience, and keeps me pushing forward to learn and make a difference.
CORE VALUES AND BELIEFS
From my Kenyan Luhya heritage, I carry a strong sense of community and family. My upbringing instilled in me a deep respect for hard work and continuous learning, a value I hold dear. My family's Christian faith is another cornerstone. Daily prayers and church attendance nurtured my compassion and desire to help others. These values translate into my professional life where I strive for excellence, take ownership, and find solutions.
FUTURE ASPIRATIONS
Looking ahead, I'm particularly excited by the potential of AI to revolutionize education globally. My Luhya heritage, with its emphasis on community and shared knowledge, inspires me to ensure this technology benefits everyone. In the future, I dream of creating AI educational tools infused with the rich cultural aspects of the Luhya tribe, like traditional music and storytelling. This innovative approach would not only personalize the learning experience but also serve as a powerful tool for preserving and sharing this vibrant heritage with future generations.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been a part of my journey. To my family, thank you for passing down our rich cultural heritage and for your unwavering support. To my friends, thank you for being there through thick and thin and for embracing my story. To my colleagues and former co-workers, thank you for your encouragement and for helping me grow both personally and professionally. Thank you for being a part of my life and my story.
