The Audacity to Dream: A Real-Life Champion’s Journey
Born in the multifaceted village of Kumbo, the capital of Bui Division, North West Region of Cameroon. A young girl named Mbiylufeyin Kumo Louisa’s journey began with dreams of a future full of potential. After navigating through primary and secondary school, she is now a student at the University of Bamenda, where she is currently studying English at the Higher Teachers Training College and Educational Psychology at the Faculty. Her path, however, was not always a smooth one.
Louisa was diagnosed with glaucoma, and at the age of eight, her life took an unexpected turn. While her world was changing, her family remained a constant source of unconditional love and care. They accepted her for who she was, providing the attention and guidance she needed to navigate her new reality. She credits her mother as her greatest inspiration, a pillar of strength who fueled her spirit.
But outside the warmth of her home, Louisa’s life was marked by isolation. Growing up, she struggled to make friends. She recounts a “funny experience” of being laughed at and mocked for her unique way of walking, explaining, “I used to walk like I was doing a fashion parade. So most of the times, they laugh at me, and some say I’m walking as if I’m doing match pass and all of that”. The hurt was profound, and she eventually decided to withdraw from social life, feeling that even the few friends she trusted did not truly accept her.
Despite the challenges and loneliness, her heart held a powerful dream—a dream of being on the “world screen”, not for fame, but because she believed it was a stepping stone to a higher purpose. It was a dream that she believed would one day lead her to greater heights.
Yet, a deep-seated truth began to surface: she couldn’t do it alone. Louisa came to a pivotal realization that she needed to connect with others, especially those who shared similar experiences, to find her footing. This led her to join the Hope Social Union for the Visually Impaired (HSUVI), an OPD in CUAPWD’s network, a move she would never regret. With HSUVI, she found a community that was not only supportive and encouraging but also helped her find her voice.
As her confidence grew, so did her talents. Mbiylufeyin revealed herself to be an artist and a talented athlete. She began competing in events like the 100-meter race, shot put, and javelin. Most notably, she became the lone female goalball player ( she has a medal in goalball) in Bamenda, fearlessly competing alongside the Males. Her journey from isolation to community, from an unaccepted young girl to a fierce and determined athlete, was a testament to her spirit.
It was with this renewed strength and purpose that she turned her attention to her long-held dream. The “world screen” was no longer just a distant hope; it was becoming a tangible goal, a stage from which she could speak for those who could not.
When the opportunity arose to compete for the title of Miss Blind Cameroon, Louisa knew she had to give it her all. The competition was not without its trials. She vividly recalls the challenges of training sessions, from learning to parade to practicing a dance routine. Yet, the moment that truly tested her determination was during voting, when three sessions were unexpectedly canceled.
“I was like, God, am I going to make it?” she remembers thinking.
With the desire to emerge victorious, she persevered, and her prayers were answered. Mbiylufeyin Kumo Louisa was crowned Miss Blind Cameroon 2025.
Louisa didn’t win alone, though. She thanks her mother, siblings, and friends for their love and encouragement. She remembers her friends reassuring her when she had doubts about winning, and their support helped her believe in herself. It was with this strong backing that she was crowned Miss Blind Cameroon.
Louisa believes her victory was not just luck, but a purposeful stepping stone towards her ultimate dream of being a voice for other visually impaired girls and women. Her goal is not fame, but to use her platform to advocate for their rights and ensure their voices are heard globally. She intends to use her position judiciously, working to change the societal perception that persons with visual impairments have nothing to contribute. She wants to ensure they are allowed to showcase their talents and contribute to society, not be seen as “beggars” when they approach official offices.
Looking to the future, Mbiylufeyin is eager to use platforms like CUAPWD, believing that together, they can work to better the welfare of girls and women with visual impairments. She offers a powerful piece of advice for others: “Having a dream is one thing, and trying to live it is another. You have to be pushful, believe in yourself, and not listen to what people are saying.” She concludes with a strong take-home message, reminding everyone to be cautious and compassionate in how they treat persons with disabilities, because “tomorrow is pregnant and we don’t know what it’s going to give birth to.”
With her strong educational background and the inspiring life lessons she has already shared, wouldn’t she end up being a great Leader?
