Shem Ayioka

Hometown: Kisii, Kenya

Major: Environmental Science

Questions and Answers: 

What is a fun fact about your hometown?

• My people love Bananas a lot !! Can be used to supplement any meal either as the main meal when cooked or fruit when ripe.

What are you looking forward to doing during your degree at UW-Madison?

• I’m looking forward to experience winter mostly to see if I survive. How bad can a Wisconsin winter be?

Why do you believe that the King-Morgridge Scholars Program at UW-Madison is important to the institution, state, and world?

• The King-Morgridge Scholars Program is the living embodiment of the Wisconsin Idea. It brings global perspectives into UW-Madison classrooms, enriching the learning experience for every student while preparing scholars to take that knowledge back to their home communities. For Wisconsin, it builds lasting international connections that strengthen the state’s global reputation. And hence the culmination of this betters the world and raises the best scholars to transform the world.

Are there specific issues in poverty alleviation or development that you would like to work on or are currently addressing?

• I’m deeply drawn to bridging the gap created by generational poverty in my community. I am a firm believer in sustainability that even as we use resources today, we must hold the future generation in our hearts. That’s why I’ve already started projects at home focused on agricultural sustainability and food security. As I embark on my Environmental Sciences and sustainability degree at UW-Madison, I draw motivation to deepen my impact and build lasting solutions for my people.

What do you like to do in your free time?

• Listening to music!! Music calms my soul mostly I love afro beats, Kenyan locals and Rhumba. I also love outdoorsy activities like hiking and trekking.