Women are known for multitasking and for that, it is unsurprising to find the name of one woman tagged in many different hats. The late Grace Akinyi Ogot is one woman whose head donned a myriad of hats.
Considered one of Kenya’s and even East Africa’s outstanding first-generation writer, Grace’s world was gilded with creative flair and an incredibly daring belief in self.
Grace started out as a nurse by profession, but her storytelling background courtesy of her paternal grandmother’s fork tales earned her a role as a scriptwriter, editor and broadcaster for BBC African Service in London.
While Grace wrote with so much finesse, it wasn’t until 1962 that she submitted her first short story for publishing and read it publicly at the African Writers Conference to the awe of many. Later on, Grace would write some of the greatest short stories of all time like Tekayo and is renowned for being the first African woman to be published in English.
Through the sheer act of doing everything she was capable of, Grace Ogot achieved immense success. She was not only an acclaimed author, a nurse, and a creative in the media but also a member of parliament, assistant minister, and diplomat in her prime years.
While reflecting on her life, Grace made such a practical and motivational statement that, “when you’re frightened don’t sit still, keep on doing something. The act of doing will give your back your courage.”
This is a timeless reminder by Grace Ogot to remember that great things are on the other side of fear, and we need to face the fear with action. In other words, do everything afraid and you will be surprised at how much courage you gather as you snowball.