Kenya
Name: Ojijo Tom
Email: ojijotom4@gmail.com
Country: Kenya
Website: https://ojijotom.github.io/ojijo-portfolio/
Date of Birth: December 28, 2005
Education: Bachelor of Computer Science
Occupation: Software Engineer
Why would you like to participate in this study program?
I would like to participate in this study program because I am passionate about transforming lives through strong, ethical leadership. I believe that true leaders inspire change, uphold justice, and protect the rights of every member of society. I am eager to grow, learn new leadership skills, and collaborate with others to make a lasting, positive impact in my community and beyond.
Please describe your vision of a world that works for everyone.
My vision of a world that works for everyone is one where technology and justice are tools for equality and empowerment. In this world, innovation is used to solve real-life challenges, and every individual regardless of race, gender, or background has equal access to opportunities, rights, and resources. I believe in building inclusive systems through ethical leadership, impactful software solutions, and active participation in law-making processes to create a more just, sustainable, and connected global society.
What do you see as the most pressing problems facing the world today?
In terms of leadership, one of the most pressing problems facing the world today is the lack of visionary, ethical, and accountable leadership. Many global challenges such as climate change, inequality, conflict, and public health crises are exacerbated by leaders who prioritize short-term political or personal gain over long-term collective well-being. Corruption, poor governance, and authoritarianism undermine public trust, weaken institutions, and hinder progress. Additionally, many leaders struggle to foster unity in increasingly polarized societies, failing to engage in inclusive dialogue or make evidence-based decisions. The world urgently needs leaders who are transparent, compassionate, globally minded, and committed to justice and sustainability, capable of inspiring real change and collaboration across borders.
How do you feel these problems could best be solved?
These problems can best be solved through a combination of transformative leadership, global collaboration, and empowered citizen participation. First, leadership must prioritize integrity, transparency, and long-term thinking leaders should be held accountable by strong institutions and an informed public. Education plays a key role in cultivating future leaders who value ethics, inclusivity, and sustainability. Second, international cooperation is essential to tackle global challenges like climate change and inequality; solutions must be coordinated, science-driven, and rooted in shared responsibility. Lastly, empowering local communities through civic education, access to information, and inclusive governance ensures that solutions are grounded in real-world needs and supported by those they affect. Only through such a multi-layered approach can meaningful, lasting progress be achieved.
Profile
My name is Ojijo Tom, and I am a passionate and purpose-driven individual dedicated to using leadership and technology to create meaningful change in society. As a student of Computer Science and an aspiring leader, I strongly believe that leadership is not just about holding a title; it is about service, accountability, and the ability to inspire and empower others. My ultimate vision is to lead by example, combining technical innovation with ethical leadership to build a more just, inclusive and sustainable world.
Growing up, I witnessed the struggles that many people face due to inequality, poor governance, and lack of access to opportunity. These challenges inspired a deep sense of responsibility in me to contribute to building a better society. I believe that real change begins with individuals who are not afraid to lead with courage, empathy, and integrity. That belief has shaped my journey, driving me to become a proactive problem-solver, community-minded thinker and aspiring change-maker.
Academically, I have developed strong skills in various programming languages and technologies including Kotlin, Java, Python, JavaScript, HTML/CSS, Firebase, Jetpack Compose, and Django. I have used these skills to build several innovative applications—from food ordering systems to digital verification tools and legal information platforms. Each project I’ve worked on reflects my desire to create solutions that are not only functional but also accessible, ethical, and impactful.
In addition to my passion for technology, I have a deep interest in governance, justice, and human rights. I believe that the law is a powerful tool for promoting fairness and protecting the dignity of every individual. I hope to play an active role in shaping policies and laws that reflect the values of equality, transparency, and inclusion. As a future leader, I aspire to use both my technical and civic knowledge to advocate for those whose voices often go unheard.
Leadership, to me, is about responsibility and vision. It’s about taking initiative, uplifting others, and making decisions that benefit not just individuals but entire communities. I have held leadership roles in academic settings and participated in community-driven projects. These experiences have taught me the importance of listening, collaborating, and leading with humility. I’ve learned that effective leadership requires both confidence and compassion.
I am especially drawn to the Institute for Global Leadership because it offers a platform for young, driven individuals like myself to grow, connect, and contribute on a global scale. I am eager to learn from mentors and peers from different backgrounds, expand my leadership capacity, and collaborate on solutions to complex global problems. This program aligns perfectly with my goal of becoming a well-rounded leader who can make a real difference through innovation, advocacy, and service.
In the future, I hope to launch initiatives that leverage technology to support justice, education, and economic empowerment. I want to help bridge the gap between policy and technology, ensuring that digital tools serve humanity ethically and inclusively. I believe that with the right support, education, and leadership development, I can contribute to building a world that works for everyone.
Click Here To Read my Book Assessments
Books Completed
As a Man Thinketh
Jonathan Livingston Seagull