AFRICA | 23-year-old, Kenneth Clancey earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science through a scholarship he won from Loyola Marymount University in the United States, overcoming the significant challenges of homelessness.
At 11, he began living on the streets. By 14-year-old, he was navigating life outside the foster care system, often without a stable place to stay. Many nights, he had nowhere to go and resorted to sleeping on Los Angeles city buses.
“That was my lowest point, not having anywhere to go. And just saying, we’re sleeping on the bus,” he said.
At 15, he moved into Skid Row’s Union Rescue Mission with his father and sister, sharing a small 200-square-foot room. His daily walk to high school took him through areas filled with drugs and street violence, making his pursuit of education even more challenging.
Join any of these WhatsApp Groups to receive more good news on WhatsApp
Yet, despite these circumstances, Kenneth maintained a 4.0 grade point average and participated in track, football, and swim team. His hard work paid off, and he received multiple scholarships, allowing him to attend Loyola Marymount University.
It was so unbelievable. That four-year journey was complete. I climbed here bare-handed,” Chancey said. “And yes it was harder than most people who are given resources… parental support. But it’s not impossible,” he said.
After graduation, Kenneth received several job offers, including roles in government, non-profits, and public relations. First, however, he plans to spend the summer working at the Inner-City Arts summer camp.
Kenneth hopes his story will change perceptions of what homeless people can achieve. “The goal is to change the stereotypes of what’s on Skid Row,” he said.
Receive Scholarship Updates through our Social Media Channels:
- WhatsApp: Scholarship Region WhatsApp
- Facebook: Scholars Region
- Twitter: @scholarsregion
- Telegram: Scholarship Region