DMU student embraces change leaving Kenya for Leicester

From watching lions to becoming one, a student from Kenya has experienced a world of change after embarking on studying at De Montfort University in Leicester and taking up a new sport.

Wrens Otieno chose to come to Leicester to further his education, but this hasn’t come without issues.

The weather in England can be a shock to anyone’s system, and this was no different for Wrens.

“It doesn’t get too hot or cold in Nairobi, but Leicester always seems cold,” Wrens said.

Kenya's traditional dish is Ugali, which is meant to be shared. It is best eaten with your hands, using Ugali to dip and scoop meat or soup.

Food is another stumbling block for most people visiting the UK.

“I can’t get anything like the traditional food of my tribe here. The fruit is terrible in the UK. An avocado is three times the size back home,” Wrens added.

One of the most famous aspects of Kenya is the safari, which features beautiful landscapes and animals that attract tourists from around the world.

These picturesque landscapes can’t be replaced here in the UK, with the sun and animals creating a one-of-a-kind experience.

“Just search Nairobi National Park, and you will understand,” Wrens said.

Back in Kenya, Wrens represented his county in the 100 metres sprint.

Wrens always knew he was fast, as his mum joked: "He skipped the crawling phase and went straight to running.”

Coronavirus prevented him from taking part in the 100 metres at the International Association of Athletics Federations in Nairobi.

“After Covid, I tore a ligament in my foot and had to choose between school or competing, and I chose school,” Wrens said.

Now at DMU, sport is still a huge part of Wrens's life. He uses his speed in American football for the DMU Lions.

Wren's speed allows him to evade tackles, which has been a huge asset for the team in a difficult season.

“I fell in love with the sport after I played my first game," he said.

“Playing it reminds me of a game I used to play with my childhood friends in the estate. It's like tag, but it's in a team system,” Wrens added.