Esther Akoth, popularly known as Akothee, is overjoyed as her daughter Prudence Vanpelt Brina, alias Fancy Makadia, graduates with a Master’s degree in Tourism and Hotel Management in Paris, France.
In a heartfelt message shared online, the award-winning singer reflected on her emotional journey of motherhood — from struggling as a single parent to now witnessing her daughter achieve academic excellence.
“My dearest daughter, PRUDENCE VANPELT BRINA BUSHNEL, Fancy Makadia… As I write this letter, tears roll down my cheeks — not from pain this time, but from overwhelming gratitude and pride,” Akothee began.
She described Fancy’s success as a turning point in their family’s story — a journey from “grass to grace.”
From Rock Bottom to a Master’s Degree
Akothee recounted the difficult years that followed the collapse of her marriage, when Fancy was just five years old.
“You were a tiny, sickly child, in and out of hospital. I couldn’t even afford paracetamol. I had to befriend a doctor just to get you treated for free.”
In one of the most harrowing moments, she recalled being arrested for loitering while seeking medical help for her daughter.
“You were burning with fever, vomiting and shivering. I called a doctor who said to meet him at Bombolulu stage — but he never showed. I stood there, alone, past 10 p.m. with no ID, no money, just fear. The police found me and arrested me. I spent the night on the cold floor of Bamburi Police Station — praying for you,” she wrote.
The next morning, she rushed home, fearing the worst, but found her children safe.
“God had kept you. That day, none of you went to school — you’d already been sent home over fees. Still, I shielded your innocence. I told you my car broke down and I spent the night at the mechanic.”
Akothee described their modest life in a small one-bedroom house in Nyali, sharing a single bed and living on faith and resilience.
“We didn’t have much, but I made sure there was food in the fridge. I tried, my child. And now — today — you stand.”
A Family United in Pride
Fancy’s sister, Vesha Okello, also expressed her excitement and admiration.
“Starting this morning on an incredibly high note! @fancy_makadia has officially graduated with her Master’s degree! You’ve made us so proud. Your hard work, grace, and dedication inspire us all. Cheers to new heights and greater wins!” she wrote.
Fancy’s graduation marks not only a personal triumph but also a powerful symbol of perseverance, maternal strength, and the power of education to transform lives.
From police station floors to Parisian graduation halls, Akothee’s story is a reminder that even the hardest journeys can end in celebration.
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