Angella Ida’s journey from the vibrant city of Nakuru, Kenya, to the United States is a story of passion, culture, and an unwavering commitment to education. Born and raised in the bustling hub of Nakuru, Angella’s love for teaching and sharing knowledge has shaped her academic and professional journey, propelling her across continents. Today, as a Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistant (FLTA), Angella is not only sharing the beauty of the Swahili language with American students but also serving as a cultural ambassador for her country. After all, Angella's academic background is deeply rooted in education.
After earning her Bachelor of Education in English and Literature from Egerton University, she went on to pursue a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction at the same institution. “I got into teaching because I love sharing knowledge with students. It gives me joy to make them think critically and engage with the world around them,” says Angella.
Angella’s teaching career began at her alma mater, Kilimo High School, where she taught English language and literature. The experience of returning to the school that once shaped her education was fulfilling and deeply meaningful. Beyond high school, Angella also worked as a part-time tutor at Egerton University while pursuing her master's degree, helping university students navigate the intricacies of English literature.
These early experiences solidified her commitment to teaching and motivated her to seek broader opportunities to share her knowledge. It was during a search for scholarship opportunities that Angella stumbled upon the Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistant Program, a program that opened doors she had never imagined.
For Angella, the Fulbright FLTA Program offered the perfect combination of her passions: teaching, language, and culture. “I wanted to share my language and culture with students in the United States, and at the same time, I was eager to experience a new culture myself,” she explains. With this opportunity, Angella knew she could contribute to bridging cultural gaps by teaching Swahili, one of Kenya's most widely spoken languages, to American students. “I chose the University of Notre Dame because of its strong academic reputation that offers a well-rounded education. It also has a beautiful campus and a strong athletic tradition.”
Her teaching role involves working with students at both beginner and intermediate levels of Swahili, helping them not only to grasp the basics of the language but also to dive into the rich cultural context it embodies. “Learning Swahili is not just about the language; it’s a gateway to understanding a different culture, being exposed to unique traditions, and exploring a form of literature that is deeply intertwined with the fabric of Kenyan life,” Angella emphasizes.
Angella believes there is much to be gained from learning Swahili. “When you learn a new language, you open yourself to a world of possibilities,” she says. Swahili, spoken by millions across East Africa, is the key to understanding Kenya’s rich and diverse heritage. Angella often tells her students that learning Swahili offers more than just linguistic skills—it is an introduction to the vast, dynamic cultures of East Africa and the way Swahili-speaking communities express themselves through literature, music, and traditions.
Kenya, in particular, is a country of immense beauty and cultural significance. As Angella proudly states, “Kenya is special because of its broad tourist attractions, including the famous Big Five.” She adds with a smile, “Karibu Kenya!” which means “Welcome to Kenya!”—an invitation for her students to explore her homeland, whether through learning the language or perhaps traveling to one day.
Angella’s journey is one of dedication, cultural exchange, and the transformative power of education. As she continues to inspire students to learn Swahili and explore the vibrant culture of Kenya, Angella is laying the foundation for a future where global education is enriched by diverse perspectives. Whether in Kenya or the U.S., Angella’s passion for teaching is noted by everyone who has the pleasure of working for her. As she looks ahead to pursuing a PhD., there is no doubt that her impact on the world of linguistic education will continue to grow.
Karibu Kenya!
About the CSLC
The Center for the Study of Languages and Cultures (CSLC) aims to support language learners at ND by facilitating meaningful experiences with linguistic acquisition and exchange - both in our campus community and abroad. We believe that access to the world's languages and cultures allows us to seek out new perspectives, to value the diversity of the world's cultures, and to embody global citizenship.