How CDU graduate Daniel aims to change lives in Kenya

It’s something of a tragedy that Africa, recognised as the birthplace of humankind, is more widely known today for its constant cycle of severe social, economic and political upheavals. 

But now, thanks to the efforts of Charles Darwin University (CDU) Master of Emergency and Disaster Management graduate Daniel Pate, the future for the continent might be starting to look a little brighter – at least for the people of his birthplace, the East African nation of Kenya. 

Growing up in Kenya, Daniel witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of ethnic tensions, famine and government corruption had on the communities in which he lived. He realised early on in his life that he wanted to help the Kenyan people not only recover but thrive. He also knew that a good education would be key to achieving his goals. 

Daniel started studying in Kenya to advance his career working in the emergency and disaster support sector but soon realised that to achieve his dream of making a real difference to people’s lives, he would have to seek an education outside of Africa. 

Fortunately, he knew a Kenyan in Perth who was keen to sponsor him and his family to come and study in Australia. 

Daniel jumped at the opportunity, quickly adding a few more diplomas to the ones he’d been awarded in Kenya. However, he knew he would need to study a postgraduate degree to take the next big step in his career. 

With his family settled in Perth, Daniel was ready for the next step. In 2021, he enrolled in a Master of Emergency and Disaster Management postgraduate degree at Charles Darwin University. 

The postgraduate degree would offer him the chance to build on his real-world experience. 

Choosing to study disaster and emergency management made perfect sense. “Having worked in the emergency and disaster sector in Africa, the choice of my course was a natural progression,” Daniel says. 

Face your challenges

Working towards his master’s wasn’t without its challenges. Daniel speaks three languages, including English. At first, Daniel’s English-based academic writing wasn't strong, but he persisted, and with the university’s help along the way, his skills “significantly improved”. 

He also calls out the invaluable dedication of CDU staff who showed patience and accommodation when he faced personal difficulties and was forced to relocate from Darwin back to Perth. 

Daniel had decided to study on campus for the first year, which he says was a highlight for him, largely because of the multicultural make-up of CDU’s student community.  

“Attending classes, both on campus and online, was incredibly refreshing,” he says. “Each student brought a wealth of diverse experiences... creating a dynamic and engaging learning environment. 

“We live in a very lucky country with great universities, and CDU is definitely one of them.” 

Daniel moved to online learning from 2022 to 2024. The experience of learning remotely wasn’t always easy, as he had to balance study with life, figure out how to use the university’s online learning platform – something he advises future students to focus on – and seek support as a remote student. 

How did he manage? Largely through balancing his workload so he could cope with the experience. “Enrol for one unit at a time,” Daniel says.  

He also tapped into CDU’s student support and counselling services, and financial assistance when needed, which helped him focus on his studies and hone his academic writing skills rather than wondering how he would survive student life. 

Learning valuable life skills

Key parts of his studies were learning about building community resilience and helping communities prepare for and recover from disasters through projects such as risk assessments, better infrastructure, public education and strong social connections. 

But Daniel’s postgraduate studies have taught him much more along the way, including insights he will carry through for the rest of his life.  

“Prioritise your wellbeing as much as your grades,” he says. "Nurture genuine connections. The people you meet... can become invaluable parts of your life.” 

He suggests postgraduate students go out of their way to challenge themselves. “Take that elective in a subject you know nothing about [and] strike up conversations with people who have different perspectives.” 

Daniel’s time at CDU has given him a big boost. “My CDU experience has given me the confidence to apply for senior jobs, and I am hoping to get an overseas job in 2026,” he says. 

He hopes this will one day lead him and his family back to Kenya. 

Daniel deeply appreciates his time at CDU and the efforts the CDU community put in to help him when he needed it.  

“I acknowledge the tireless efforts of your non-academic staff, researchers, educators, and practitioners who... nurture the next generation of leaders," he says.  

“Their work embodies the essence of ‘ubuntu’ [the Xhosa word for the essential human values such as compassion and humanity], recognising the interconnectedness of our lives and the power of collective growth." 

Daniel's story shows that anything is possible with big dreams, hard work and proper support. His journey is an inspiration, proving that education can change lives and one day help build a better world.