Kiden Janet Wori is originally from Kajo Keji, South Sudan. Like many South Sudanese, she was forced to flee with her family during the civil war. They relocated to a refugee camp in Adjumani, Uganda.
As the eldest in a family of seven children, it quickly became apparent that the burden of tuition was too heavy. Her father was forced to choose to either continue educating Kiden or her brother. Although Kiden was performing exceptionally well in school, her father chose her brother, shattering Kiden’s future opportunities for education and a future career.
As a result of the deep-rooted gender bias and financial hardship—a common narrative for young women like Kiden—she was going to be forced to stay at home. However, by the grace of God, Kiden’s grandmother generously supported her until she completed her primary education. She exceeded expectations in her final examinations, but once again faced a financial roadblock when looking forward to the next step in her education. Around this time, a family friend who was considered an outcast in the community came to her home with an application to The Leadership Academy of South Sudan. Her hope was renewed when she was offered and accepted a scholarship to join the next class at LASS.
LASS was a vessel for her to grow into the strong leader and person of influence she was destined to be among her community. While at LASS, she not only received top-level education, but was able to learn and grow through opportunities in leadership and discipleship. She honed her leadership skills when serving as the Vice Chairperson of her class, known as “The Ambassadors of Peace and Reconciliation” generation at LASS.
Kiden is currently in her third year at Makerere University, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in social work. While working on her degree, she became the first female chairperson for the Makerere University South Sudanese Students Association (MUSSSA) since its inception in 1996. A milestone she cherishes and a position she does not take lightly.
Reflecting on this accomplishment, Kiden shared, “It’s not lost on me the uphill battle I face, given the prevalent cultural biases that often dictate that women cannot lead. However, this only fuels my determination to serve in this capacity, especially considering our association’s core focus on embracing diversity and fostering inclusion.”
To Kiden, the greatest impact of LASS was how it broke down biases and divisions the students grew up believing and experiencing deeply. Her time at LASS radically changed her perspective on other tribes, teaching her to fully embrace the other tribes, viewing them as one South Sudanese people. This made it very easy to take on her current position as chairperson, because she sees all South Sudanese as one. She wonders if developing this mentality would have been possible without her time at LASS.
Through her enriching experiences thus far, she’s come to understand that the root cause of much of the instability within South Sudanese communities, whether educated or not, stems from the inability to coexist and appreciate the diverse tapestry of humanity that God has created. It’s this realization and the discipleship through 4africa that drive her agenda within MUSSSA—to create platforms and initiatives that bring people together, fostering mutual appreciation and harmony.
Whether it’s organizing cultural galas, sports events, or engaging debates, Kiden is committed to ensuring that MUSSSA serves as a catalyst for unity and understanding among its members. Looking ahead, her aspirations extend beyond the university campus. She envisions herself using her social work degree and leadership skills to serve marginalized communities, advocating for their rights and needs, and being a voice for those who often go unheard.
“I feel prepared to take on leadership roles at any level, knowing that each opportunity presents a chance to contribute to the well-being and advancement of our community. Together, as ambassadors of reconciliation, we can usher in a new generation that celebrates our differences and works towards a future of mutual respect and harmony.”
