On Thursday Crestwood was honoured to host a visit by two of the last Maasai Warriors: Jackson and Wilson. Students had the chance to hear of what life was like in Kenya for these two men and their struggle between wanting to preserve their heritage and culture and their desire to go to school. Students were also able to ask questions about the Maasai people and learn how they can become more global citizens. Their story is an inspiring account of what can be achieved through determination and drive, and their ability to enmesh their cultural heritage and their education has helped them speak as role models to youth around the world.
Wilson and Jackson’s storyGrowing up, Wilson and Jackson had to fight to go to school. Born into the Maasai tribe in rural Kenya, their parents wanted them to be warriors, not students wasting their time buried in books. Now in their mid-to-late 20s, Wilson and Jackson have achieved what was once unthinkable: They both have degrees. They both grew up to be Maasai warriors.
And now, they’re both authors.
Their journey from young boys who were at risk for illiteracy to motivational speakers for Me to We, the social enterprise arm of Canadian-based charity Free the Children, is illustrated in their new book, “The Last Maasai Warriors.”
“School gave me courage to set a goal for my future,” says Wilson.
Currently in the country for a few months to speak at We Day events across the country, Wilson and Jackson’s first order of business upon landing was getting appropriate footwear and warmer clothes. As one of Kenya’s better-known ethnic groups, thanks to their distinctive dress and intricate jewelry, the Maasai have a reputation for being fearless. In Kenya, the pair work for Me to We as guides on youth and corporate trips in the country’s Maasai Mara district. They act as liaisons between the travellers and the communities they visit, and also provide security against wild animals when the groups go on safari.
