Graduate Profile: Kingsley Otsemoboh Enaboakpe, MTS '23

Kingsley Enaboakpe smiling at the camera
Kingsley Otsemoboh Enaboakpe. Photo courtesy Kingsley Otsemoboh Enaboakpe.

How I've Changed  

With Harvard Divinity School’s robust curriculum and provocative classroom discussions, I have become more aware of my role in the social transformation process. My exposure to religious intersectionality, which unraveled the complex interplay between religion, politics, and social identities, has enriched my intellectual curiosity and equipped me to navigate religion's evolving role in today's global society.

Memorable Moment 

My most memorable moment was a series of relaxed, unstructured moments spent with classmates and friends like Maya James, Quinn Matos, Noor Trainer, Ebony Joy Johnson, Seth Biwul, Lamia Cyrus, Aliyah Collins, Tracey Robertson, Kristen Maples and Xavier Sayeed. These exceptional individuals left me with profoundly sweet memories. They were kind, collegial, interesting, intelligent, and inspiring. Some of them went the extra mile to check on me, providing guidance in adapting to American culture and navigating life at Harvard, Cambridge, and Greater Boston, with Quinn Matos being particularly tireless in his efforts. 

Favorite Class or Professor 

I am hard-pressed to name a favorite class or professor, for each one offered me something unique, provocative, and inspiring. 

Message of Thanks  

My heartfelt thanks go to my wife, Jennifer I.O. Enaboakpe, and my children: Deborah P. Enaboakpe, King O. Enaboakpe, Elsie O. Enaboakpe, and Elise E. Enaboakpe, who endured my absence for a year. They were an inspiration for my success at Harvard. I am also grateful to Professor Jacob K. Olupona, who served as my advisor and provided invaluable assistance throughout my studies at Harvard. I extend my thanks to other individuals who took a keen interest in my learning and readily offered the academic support I needed: Professors Jocelyne Cesari, David F. Holland, and James C. Skedros. Additionally, I appreciate those who provided administrative support to help me meet non-curricular requirements: Associate Dean Timothy Whelsky, Director of Financial Aid Beth Flaherty, and Director of Immigration Services Maureen Martin. They have been amazing and highly professional.  

What I Hope to Be Remembered By 

I hope to be remembered for my eagerness to elevate and honor the virtues and kindness of those who came into my life, mirroring the beauty of their hearts through my words and actions. 

Future Plans 

Upon completing my studies, I secured an adjunct position to teach World Political Geography at Eastern Nazarene College in Quincy, MA. This opportunity has allowed me to positively impact students' lives, just as my professors did for me. I am passionate about teaching and imparting knowledge for personal growth, and I plan to utilize academia, church, and social media as platforms to fulfill this desire. Moving forward, I will further my education and collaborate with scholars to mentor numerous college and graduate students in Africa through The Paideia—a virtual education and development center I founded in April 2022. We aim to provide more scholarship opportunities and funding to enhance members' education. Additionally, I am committed to helping my wife and children—who are now in the United States—transition smoothly into their own education.