Professor Jairos Kangira
When Eusebia Shava graduated with a Doctor of Nursing Science degree at the spring graduation ceremony of the University of Namibia last month, people who knew her as a young woman selling clothing material in the streets of Windhoek suburbs some two decades ago were awestruck – quite reasonably so.
Eusebia’s life has been a trajectory of humble beginnings couched in resilience and grit, leading her to this great achievement – the attainment of a doctoral degree in nursing science.
Born and raised in the small town of Kwekwe in Zimbabwe, Sebby, as she is affectionately called by her army of friends and relatives, told me that she was not an A-student, both at primary and high school levels. She was full of energy and often playful, according to her father who gave a touching speech at her graduation ceremony in Windhoek recently.
“But as parents we saw great potential in her and believed that one day she would grow into someone who makes a difference in people’s lives, a belief that has come true,” said Sebby’s father.
After high school, Sebby trained as an Executive Secretary and Personal Assistant (PA), which opened doors for her to work in Zimbabwe. Those years taught her professionalism, discipline, and resilience. She relocated to Namiba in 2003 when her husband Musa Shava got a job in this country.
In Namibia, starting over was not easy. She had to find a way to assist her husband to support the family and to rebuild her own identity. That was when she started a small business, selling clothing materials to Herero women, who used them to make their beautiful traditional dresses.
“This venture sustained my family and connected me deeply with the community. It taught me perseverance, patience, and the value of hard work lessons that became the foundation for everything I achieved later,” explained Sebby.
While running her vending business, Sebby learned that the University of Namibia (UNAM) accepted foreign students. This reignited the dream that she had always nurtured – to care for and help others. She then decided to pursue that dream and enrolled for a Bachelor of Nursing Science at UNAM.
“It was not an easy decision, but one that changed my life forever. After graduating with my Honours degree, I began working at Betesda Medical Centre in Katutura, where I served with passion and dedication. I later joined the Roman Catholic Hospital as an ICU nurse, where my compassion and commitment to patient care deepened. While working in the ICU, I discovered another passion – teaching. I wanted to share my knowledge and inspire others, just as so many had inspired me,” Sebby observed.
With the conviction of lecturing in mind, she pursued a Master’s degree with UNAM, and upon graduation, she joined Welwitchia University as a lecturer.
“Standing in front of my students, guiding them towards their dreams, gave me immense fulfilment. Yet, I knew my journey was not complete. I then returned to UNAM to pursue a PhD determined to keep growing both personally and professionally,” Sebby said.
She also acknowledged that balancing life as a mother, wife, lecturer, and student was not easy. “There were sleepless nights, moments of doubt, and times when I questioned whether I could continue or drop my studies. But my faith, determination, and the unwavering support of my family and mentors kept me going until my I realised my PhD dream.”
Reflecting on Sebby’s story, it is apparent that she was not born great. Neither did she have greatness thrust upon her. In essence, she achieved greatness through working hard from small beginnings. This is a testimony that humble beginnings do not define one’s future; rather, they prepare us for it.
Sebby urged women not to allow setbacks to silence their ambitions and dreams. She further advised women to believe in themselves even when others don’t, and to let determination guide them. Sebby called on the youth to exploit their limitless potential and never to give up when they stumble and fall.
As a parting shot, Sebby advised PhD students to persevere and stay on course as the road is tough, fraught with challenges, sacrifices and moments of doubt.
“The world needs your research, your voice, and your contribution. Persevere, and one day you will look back with pride and say, ‘I made it,’” Sebby emphasized.
Sadly, Sebby obtained her doctorate at a difficult time as her mother, the pillar of her support throughout, untimely passed on before her graduation. “This doctorate is for you, Mum,” she solemnly paid tribute to her late mother at her graduation ceremony.
She is a lecturer in nursing science at the International University of Management (IUM).
Congratulations Dr Eusebia Shava!
Professor Jairos Kangira is an academic of international reputation. Email address: kjairos@gmail.com