When 22-year-old Richard Dekoa Ninkama stepped forward to collect his Bachelor of Physiotherapy degree this week, he did so with the weight of cherished memories alongside his academic achievement. The significance of the day extended beyond his hard work; it was a heartfelt tribute to the two women who profoundly influenced his life: his mother, Makareta Lewaquto, and his late grandmother, who played a crucial role in his upbringing.
Having lost his father at the tender age of 11, Richard relied heavily on the support and love from his mother and grandmother. Reflecting on this bond, he shared, “It’s always been my mum and my grandmum.” Tragically, his grandmother passed away just before the previous school year concluded, a loss that deeply impacted Richard. However, as the new academic year approached, he found the strength to push on, motivated by the belief that she would have wanted him to continue his journey.
“I knew she would have been proud of me,” he expressed, acknowledging that our loved ones encourage us to persevere.
Richard’s path was not without challenges, yet he has always held onto a strong belief in hard work and self-confidence. Surrounded by his mother and siblings during this significant moment, he is eager to embark on a career dedicated to service and healing as a physiotherapist.
He emphasized the importance of self-discovery, encouraging others by stating, “Maybe academics isn’t for you. You could be good at sports, or business, or social media — anything. Just work hard and believe in yourself. That’s the main thing.”
In addition to celebrating his own achievements, Ninkama expressed gratitude to the lecturers who supported him throughout his studies. For Richard, graduation represents more than just a personal milestone; it is a fulfilled promise to his grandmother, a testament to his resilience, and an optimistic start to a future he is ready to pursue with vigor.