SIUE Senior Jonathan Amwayi Awarded International Leadership Scholarship

“We all need someone who believes in our abilities and we cannot forget about the people who helped us along the way.”–Jonathan Amwayi

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville senior Jonathan Amwayi was recently awarded the Richard & Patricia Dremuk International Leadership Scholarship. A scholarship designed to support those who demonstrate excellence and leadership among SIUE Undergraduate International students, Amwayi was recognized for his involvement and contributions to SIUE’s African Students Association and for his assistance with organizing Africa Night.

Originally from Kenya, Amwayi is an undergraduate at SIUE studying mathematics. His life in Kenya very much molded him into the person he is today. “Life in Kenya was completely different–I look back and think to myself, ‘how far I have come,’” he said. Amwayi could not be more grateful for the award, acknowledging that behind every great person there are even greater people behind them who have helped them get to where they are, as in the case of this scholarship. “We all need someone who believes in our abilities and we cannot forget about the people who helped us along the way.”

Amwayi very much reflects the mission of the Richard & Patricia Dremuk International Leadership Scholarship. Outside of his achievements in academia, he exudes the characteristics of an individual with strong leadership skills who is committed to improving the lives of others in a multitude of ways. In terms of opportunities, Amwayi stressed how important it is to create a path for others. “The vision itself is more important than I am. It is my responsibility–our responsibility–to improve the lives of those coming after us,” he stated.

After graduating, Amwayi plans to obtain a job as an actuary. “Dreams are how you push yourself to the future and I want to help people make their visions a reality.” Amwayi sees his job as an actuary as a stepping stone to something bigger and plans to eventually start a scholarship program of his very own to give others opportunities like he has been given.

Be Sociable, Share!

Filed Under: Scholarly Activities

Tags:

Comments are closed.

Switch to our mobile site