The Aga Khan Academy Mombasa celebrates its Class of 2023

The Aga Khan Academy Mombasa is proud to announce the successful graduation of its Class of 2023 – an exceptional and diverse cohort of 76 students who hail from Kenya, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Uganda and beyond. The graduation ceremony, held on 20 May 2023, marked a significant milestone in the lives of the accomplished graduates, who have exhibited dedication, resilience and academic excellence throughout their educational journey to complete the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme (DP). 

Prior to the ceremony, a special pinning ceremony was conducted for the graduating class with their teachers and residential parents. A tradition seen across the Aga Khan Academies, the graduates were awarded an Academies’ pin, signifying the completion of the students’ time at the Academy as they join a growing legacy of over 1,700 alumni leaders across the Academies. Following the pinning ceremony, the graduates convened in the Academy’s Commons for the official graduation ceremony, which began with opening remarks from Head of Academy Alison Hampshire, who emphasised the importance of courage, especially in today’s rapidly changing society, to positively contribute to their community and the world. 

“Being a winner means having the courage to take risks, the resilience to overcome setbacks and the determination to keep going, even when the going gets tough,” Ms Alison said.“It means embracing failure as an opportunity to learn and grow and never giving up on your dreams, no matter how difficult they may seem. Regardless of where your paths may take you, one thing remains constant – each and every one of you has the potential to make a positive impact on the world around you. Use your talents and abilities to make a positive difference in the lives of others, to contribute to your community and to create a better future for all.” 

During their time at the Academy, the Class of 2023 has not only excelled academically but has also actively participated in a wide range of co-curricular and extracurricular activities. From arts and sports to community service and environmental initiatives, these graduates have demonstrated their commitment to personal growth, social responsibility and making a positive impact on society. One example can be seen with Illana Alibhai, a Class of 2023 graduate from the Academy, who has received awards for her student-led service project, “Ocean Eyes”, which focuses on marine conservation projects in the coastal areas around Mombasa.  

The Class of 2023 will attend renowned universities worldwide, such as Yale University, Berklee School of Music, King’s College London, Georgetown University in Qatar, Schulich School of Business, Maastricht University, University of British Columbia and many more. Additionally, many graduates were awarded scholarships, such as Shakhrbonu Shanozarova, who was part of the Academy’s International Talent Identification Programme that provides exceptional students with an international-standard education and leadership opportunities, regardless of their ability to pay. Shakhrbonu received an admission offer to attend Tufts University – a private, prestigious university in the United States – with a full scholarship worth over $370,000. She was also one of the recipients of the Award of Excellence, which is given to students at graduation who exhibit exemplary holistic development over the DP and personify the Aga Khan Academies Learner Profile.  

This year’s keynote speaker was Sheliza Darvesh, an alumna of the Academy from the Class of 2008 who currently works in digital healthcare. She encouraged the graduates to pursue their dreams using what they gained as students at the Academy.  

“My hope is that you leave here and you put your knowledge, your skills, your education and your values to good use,” Ms Sheliza said.“Dare to ask. Dare to do. Seek opportunity. Make your own luck. I hope you reach those goals you have set for yourselves when you leave the Academy. And then I hope you do even more.” 

As the graduates embark on their next journey, the Aga Khan Academy Mombasa is confident in their ability to navigate new horizons, overcome challenges and embrace opportunities with determination. On behalf of the Academies network, we wish the Class of 2023 the best in all their future endeavours.