Fuelled by Stout Determination - Amb. Maryben Omollo’s Message on Perseverance and Purpose

Introduction

On December 6, 2023, while in Juba, South Sudan, Ambassador Maryben Omollo—an internationally recognised mental health and leadership coach, 17-time award-winning speaker, and founder of the Maryben Foundation—shared a powerful reflection on the role of determination in achieving personal and professional goals. Her message, though brief, was a compelling reminder that success is not born from ease, but from persistence. With a global reach of over 50 million and a mission to build resilient and inclusive workplaces across Africa, Maryben continues to inspire individuals to push forward, even when the path is steep. Her words serve as a beacon for anyone striving to overcome obstacles and stay committed to their vision.

The Power of Determination

Maryben defines determination as the fuel that ignites the journey toward our goals. It is not merely about setting objectives—it is about the unwavering commitment to pursue them, even when faced with setbacks, doubt, or fatigue. Determination, she explains, is what keeps us moving when motivation fades and challenges mount. In her view, determination is not a passive trait. It is an active force—a decision made daily to keep going, to rise after every fall, and to believe in the possibility of success even when the odds seem stacked against us.

Beyond the Goal: The Journey of Relentless Pursuit

Maryben emphasises that having a goal is only the beginning. What truly matters is the pursuit—the relentless, sometimes exhausting, journey toward that goal. It is in the pursuit that character is built, resilience is tested, and growth occurs. She encourages individuals to embrace the process, not just the outcome. Every step taken, no matter how small, is a victory. Every obstacle overcome is a lesson. And every moment of perseverance brings us closer to the realisation of our dreams.

Resilience in the Face of Adversity

Maryben’s message acknowledges that the path to success is rarely smooth. There will be moments of doubt, failure, and frustration. But it is precisely in these moments that determination becomes most powerful. She reminds us that resilience—the ability to recover from setbacks and keep moving forward—is not separate from determination; it is its companion. Together, they form the foundation of lasting achievement.

A Call to Celebrate Progress

Rather than waiting for the final destination to celebrate, Maryben urges us to honour every step of the journey. Each act of persistence, each decision to keep going, is worthy of recognition. By celebrating progress, we reinforce our commitment and build the momentum needed to continue. Her message is a call to pause and reflect—not on how far we still have to go, but on how far we’ve already come.

Lessons to Learn

Maryben Omollo’s reflection on determination offers several key lessons:

1. Determination is a daily choice: It’s not about never feeling tired or discouraged—it’s about choosing to keep going anyway.
2. Goals require pursuit: Setting a goal is important, but it’s the consistent effort that brings it to life.
3. Resilience and determination go hand in hand: The ability to bounce back is part of what makes determination effective.
4. Celebrate the journey: Every step forward is progress. Acknowledge it.
5. Purpose fuels perseverance: When your goal is tied to a deeper purpose, determination becomes more sustainable.

Reflection

Ambassador Maryben Omollo’s message from Juba is a timely reminder that determination is not just a motivational buzzword—it is a way of life. Her words resonate with anyone who has ever faced a challenge, doubted their path, or questioned their strength. She reminds us that determination is not about perfection. It’s about persistence. It’s about showing up, again and again, even when it’s hard. It’s about believing in the value of your dreams and the power of your effort. In a world that often celebrates instant success, Maryben’s message is a grounding force. It calls us back to the truth that real achievement is built over time, through grit, grace, and unwavering resolve. So today, as she encourages, let us celebrate the power of determination. Let us honour the steps we’ve taken, the obstacles we’ve overcome, and the dreams we continue to pursue. Because every step forward—no matter how small—is a testament to our strength.