Boniface Onkoba: A Forensic Expert Mentoring Students To Study Abroad

Published on Dec. 23, 2024, 9:29 p.m.

Boniface is a Forensic expert with technical skills in crime scene investigation with over 10 years of experience in the National Police Service Commission. He is also an experienced high school Geography teacher and an educational consultant. He is the Managing Director of BCM Global Education Services an organisation that specialises in providing comprehensive services to students planning to study abroad. Their services include academic advising, admissions consulting, visa assistance, and scholarship guidance. He empowers students with the necessary tools and resources to succeed in a competitive, international academic environment. What was your Chevening Cohort, what did you study and in which University? I was part of the 2022/2023 cohort and studied MSc Forensic Archaeology and Crime Scene Investigations at the University of Bradford. How was your Chevening experience and how has it impacted your life? My Chevening experiences in the UK were incredible from having an opportunity to study in one of the most prestigious universities with cutting-edge research, and high-quality teaching to creating a network with talented peers. The Specialized knowledge and skills that I developed through my program are now useful in my career and personal projects. Apart from studies I was able to visit and tour some of the iconic destinations such as the Lake District, Edinburgh the capital of Scotland, and Belfast in Northern Ireland. I have been able to channel the skills, knowledge and experiences I gained in the UK into projects and initiatives that will benefit the community in Kenya, especially the young scholars. As a Chevening Leader, what would you consider your proudest moment or greatest achievement? My greatest achievement as of now is successfully guiding more than 20 students with an ambition to study abroad but not sure what program would suit them best through personalised academic advice and support. Many of these students have reached out after sharing my story. I sat down and mapped out their academic and personal goals, and helped them research programs that aligned with their field of study. I have been able to find perfect matches in their areas of academic interest. Friends, colleagues, and even people I barely knew would share how my story inspired them to face their challenges. It gives me a deep sense of fulfilment knowing that what started as a personal struggle had turned into an opportunity to lift others. Who or what has had the greatest influence on your life? Joining the paramilitary wing of the National Police Service in 2011 had the greatest influence on my life. The unique experiences and environment of paramilitary organisations which often operate in high-stress, militarized, and ideologically driven contexts. This caused a significant shift in my worldview, personal identity, and relationships with others. What is the most important lesson you have learned in life? The most important lesson I have learned in life is the importance of resilience. Life is full of setbacks and challenges. Learning to bounce back from failures or difficult situations builds strength and character. Resilience is essential for adaptation to difficult situations, emotional well-being, problem-solving ability and long-term sustainability. How would you like to be remembered? I would like to be remembered as a champion and catalyst for success in academics through mentorship and support systems which will help individuals realize their full potential. I hope now through BCM Global Education Services, I will be able to reach more and leave a positive mark in their lives through mentorship programs.