Esther Passaris Opens Up on Language Struggles and Dyslexia

Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has offered a candid reflection on her struggles with languages, linking them to her dyslexia and sharing how personal expectations did not pan out as she had once hoped.

In a series of tweets, Passaris spoke openly about what she considers a lifelong weakness with language—something she has since learned to accept, embrace, and even draw strength from.

A Personal Struggle

Passaris revealed that despite marrying a Kikuyu man, she never managed to learn Kikuyu as she had initially expected. She admitted that language has never been her strong suit, having failed Kiswahili and only just managing through “the King’s English.”

“I don’t speak Kikuyu. Thought a Kikuyu husband would enable the language; it didn’t. A girl is allowed to dream. Being dyslexic, language isn’t my forte. I barely make it through the King’s English; I failed Kiswahili; picked a few Italian phrases whilst in Italy; a few Greeks swear,” she tweeted in response to a follower who challenged her to record herself speaking Kikuyu.

Embracing Imperfection

Rather than viewing her difficulties as shortcomings, Passaris described them as part of her identity—proof that perfection is not a prerequisite for success.

“One can fail a subject; and still excel in life. You do not need to have an A to excel. We all have different talents and the sky is not the limit. I am perfectly imperfect,” she stated.

She added that she fully embraces every aspect of herself:

“I own my story. I’m in love with the whole of me; the good; the bad; the ugly notwithstanding. Why? Because everyone can love me for my good points.”

Finding Her Own Voice

Passaris also disclosed that the Kiswahili she now speaks was acquired during her political campaigns rather than in formal education.

“I learnt the Swahili I speak on my political trail. My take on life: It’s those who love me irrespective of my bad points that truly love me. Love starts within, not without.”

For Passaris, the true language she values most is not tied to grammar or fluency, but to authenticity and humanity. In her words, love itself is the universal language that everyone can understand.