My Journey From Dreaming to Becoming an Open Dreams Pre-Scholar | Nji Jesse

It all started with a dream — a dream bigger than my circumstances, bigger than my fears. A dream that whispered, “There is more out there for you.” I didn’t know how or when, but I knew I wanted to rise, to grow, and to reach new heights. Then one day, I heard about Open Dreams from a friend, Teneg Glien Junior, at school.

Matriculation day at the Open Dreams Summer Academy

At first, I thought it was too good to be true. An organization that believes in young people? One that invests time and resources into guiding us to world-class opportunities?

Not being convinced, during a summer program called “Conscription, ” a new friend told me about Open Dreams again. Then, I had to do my research. I read everything I could about Open Dreams, watched past scholars speak, and imagined myself being one of them. But still, I wondered, “Do I really have what it takes?”

Being uncertain, I decided to do all I could in my power to get into Open Dreams. I searched for the essays, prepared and reviewed them; searched for possible interview questions and of course, practiced.

The day I got accepted into the Open Dreams Summer Academy was unforgettable. I still remember how my heart raced when I received the email. I read it twice, then a third time, just to be sure. I was in! I couldn’t help but smile — not just because of the acceptance, but because a door had finally opened, and I was ready to walk through it.

The Open Drams family. We are more than dreamers

Becoming an Open Dreams Pre-Scholar has been more than a title. It’s been a turning point. The Academy has exposed me to tools and ideas I never had access to before. From learning about college applications and financial aid, to building leadership and storytelling skills, community engagement and volunteerism and even sporting activities such as hiking. This experience is preparing me not only for college but for life and its challenges.

The journey hasn’t been easy. There were moments of doubt, challenges with internet connection, managing other extracurriculars and juggling other responsibilities. But I pushed through, because I knew this was my chance to grow, and I wasn’t going to let it slip away.

Mastering the art of public speaking.  An important factor required for driving change

What drives me is more than just going abroad or getting a scholarship — it’s the desire to become a changemaker.  I want to bring that change Africa has long sought for. I want to use what I learn to give back, to uplift others like me, and to create opportunities for the next generation. My long-term goal is to pursue a career in AI and Machine Learning, and I know Open Dreams is helping lay that foundation.

To anyone out there wondering if they should apply, let me tell you this: you are enough. Don’t let fear or doubt hold you back. Apply, even if you think you’re not the smartest, richest, or most accomplished. What matters is your hunger to grow, your willingness to learn, and your belief in something greater than yourself.

I’m still on the journey, but one thing is clear — I’m no longer just dreaming. I’m becoming.

• Nji Jesse