Empowering Dreams Through Education and Entrepreneurship
James Cummings and Ebby Shiroya have a remarkable story that stands out in the vast tapestry of global education and entrepreneurial endeavors. James, who comes from the heartland of the United States, found his calling in the serene landscapes of Wisconsin and Minnesota. On the other hand, Ebby’s journey began in rural Kenyan life’s crucible. James had an exploratory childhood, attending leadership camps and venturing into the rugged wilderness of Canada. His formative years were full of adventures. Ebby’s years of development were brimming with challenges.
At Macalester College in St. Paul, MN, James honed his intellect, delving into History and International Studies, ultimately earning a BA degree. Following his academic pursuits, James embarked on a transformative journey to Kenya with WorldTeach. There, he dedicated himself as a volunteer teacher, immersing himself in the heart of rural western Kenya.
Meanwhile, Ebby’s early years were imbued with energy and resilience. However, her path was fraught with adversity, navigating through the challenges of poverty and disrupting home life. Undeterred, Ebby forged ahead through sheer persistence and hard work, initially sustaining herself by hustling and selling items along the roadside. Through her tenacity and resourcefulness, she leveraged small microloans to advance her skill development, ultimately establishing and managing multiple successful businesses.
The genesis of their collaborative efforts culminated in the birth of Kijana Global Innovation School in 2020. For James, it was a means to give back to the community that shaped his early career in education, while for Ebby, it was proof of her relentless pursuit of opportunity amidst hardship. Together, they envisioned a school that not only provided academic rigor but also fostered innovation and global connectivity.
Yet, their journey was not without its trials. Resources were scarce, and support was often elusive. But through perseverance and belief in their shared vision, they overcame each obstacle, demonstrating that success is as much about resilience as it is about opportunity.
Their passion burns brightly, fueled by a dual commitment to building a unique school that serves an underserved community and showcasing the untapped talent of rural Kenya to the world. James’ decades of education have instilled in him a deep understanding of the challenges faced by marginalized communities. Meanwhile, Ebby’s passion is ignited by the tangible impact she witnesses in her local environment—the sight of happy, healthy children with access to modern resources and connections to the wider world fuels her dedication to her community’s prosperity and well-being.
James and Ebby exemplify the spirit of the tiger. Fearless and resolute, they’ve navigated the complexities of entrepreneurship and education with courage and determination. For them, leadership isn’t about creating followers—it’s about nurturing future leaders who will carry forth their vision and enrich the world.
Their inspiration stems from a shared desire to provide unique educational experiences for all. Ebby’s journey drives her commitment to offering opportunities she missed in her youth, while James aims to replicate the transformative education he experienced. Their vision is to create a school that integrates the best ideas from diverse sources, catering to underprivileged students with innovative education.
Their accolades represent their exceptional achievements. James has been honored with alumni achievement awards from both his high school and college. Notably, in 2022, he received the prestigious Charles J. Turck Global Citizen Award from Macalester College. His contributions to education have been recognized with awards for Outstanding Educator and Educational Visionary from Education 2.0. Meanwhile, Kijana’s impactful work has been celebrated with seven Anthem awards for purpose-driven initiatives. James’ induction into the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences further underscores his influence. Ebby’s entrepreneurial journey, from humble beginnings, and her stewardship of Kijana School add further accolades to their remarkable legacy.
When asked about their hobbies, James and Ebby’s responses are as diverse as their endeavors—reading, traveling, and building connections with others. Yet, amidst the whirlwind of their professional lives, they find solace in each other’s company, exploring new horizons and dreaming of future adventures.
Their strengths lie not only in their vision and energy but also in their willingness to embrace vulnerability and growth. As they continue to evolve, they remain steadfast in their commitment to lifelong learning and the empowerment of others.
In a world often defined by competition, James and Ebby offer a different narrative—one of collaboration, compassion, and collective growth. Their message is clear: stay true to your vision, work hard, and embrace the journey with open arms.
As they embark on new chapters and inspire others to follow in their footsteps, James and Ebby’s mantra is stirring. “Care, share, and explore; in these simple words lie the blueprint for a brighter, more interconnected future—one where every dreamer has the opportunity to soar.”
