Journey to Amba Law
Addis Ababa ,Ethiopia July 2024
Education, Sacrifice , and Opportunity
Growing up in Kubicuraa, a small village near Yabelo Town, Ethiopia, my life was shaped by resilience, family, and big dreams. In 1998, before I was born, my older brothers, Attorney Yasin G. Amba and Tukey G. Amba, left for the U.S. in pursuit of greater opportunities, changing our family's path forever. For 18 years, I knew them only through stories and calls, yet they remained a guiding force, supporting me financially and emotionally through my education. In 2018, we finally met in person after 20 years apart—a moment both surreal and deeply familiar.
Now, I proudly join them at Amba Law as a Legal Assistant, blending my Computer Science background with my passion for helping others, contributing to a mission that has become deeply personal.
The Big Move: A Family’s Sacrifice for Education
At the age of 10, my life took a major turn. My parents, determined to provide me and my siblings with the best possible education, made the difficult decision to move us from Kubicuraa to Yabelo Town so that we could attend private school. It was a significant financial burden, but they believed in the power of education and sacrificed greatly to ensure we had access to better opportunities.
I enrolled at Abdii Borii Primary and Secondary School, where I quickly adapted to my new environment and worked hard to make my parents' sacrifices worthwhile. My dedication to my studies paid off when I earned exceptional grades, unlocking an incredible opportunity.
Four Years That Changed Everything: ODA Special Boarding School
Because of my strong academic performance, I was accepted into ODA Special Boarding School, one of the best high schools in Ethiopia. This was a defining moment in my life.
Spending four years at ODA wasn’t just about academics—it was about personal growth, independence, and lifelong connections. I met some of the most incredible people, many of whom became more than just friends; they became family. To this day, we remain close, supporting each other through life’s many challenges and triumphs.
ODA shaped me into the person I am today, instilling in me discipline, resilience, and a belief in the power of community. It taught me that education isn’t just about books and grades—it’s about the people you meet, the lessons you learn beyond the classroom, and the relationships you build along the way.
A Life-Altering Loss & My Journey at Addis Ababa University
After completing high school with outstanding results in the Grade 12 National Exam, I earned the opportunity to pursue my bachelor’s degree at Addis Ababa University (AAU), one of the most prestigious universities in Africa.
University life introduced me to diverse perspectives, new challenges, and friendships that will last a lifetime. It was during these years that I learned to navigate the world on my own, developing critical thinking, adaptability, and problem-solving skills that would shape my future career.
But just as I was starting this new chapter, I faced the most difficult moment of my life.
In October 17, 2021, during my first year at Addis Ababa University, my father passed away.
Losing him at such a critical time was devastating. I had just begun my higher education journey, and suddenly, the person who had sacrificed so much for my future was gone. The grief was overwhelming, and there were moments when I wondered how I could continue.
But in that pain, I found motivation. My father believed in education above all else, and I knew that the best way to honor him was to push forward, no matter how difficult it was. Even in the face of grief, I remained focused and committed to my studies. Through the hardest years of my life, I persevered and graduated with great distinction, proving to myself that strength and resilience can overcome even the darkest times.
His sacrifice and legacy live on in everything I do.
A New Beginning: Joining Amba Law Immigration Solutions PC
Now, I find myself at yet another turning point. After graduating, I made the exciting decision to join my brothers at Amba Law as a Legal Assistant—working remotely from Yabelo, Ethiopia.
This marks a new chapter in my journey—one that is vastly different from my background in Computer Science but equally fulfilling. Entering the legal field is an opportunity for me to explore something new, learn from my brothers’ experiences, and contribute to something meaningful.
At Amba Law, I am not just assisting with legal work; I am part of a mission—to help immigrants, refugees, and families navigate the U.S. immigration system, ensuring they have the legal representation and support they need. My transition into this role is a blend of my analytical skills from Computer Science and my passion for helping people.
What This Means for Me and for Others Like Me
Reflecting on my journey—from Kubicuraa to Yabelo Town, from ODA Boarding School to Addis Ababa University, and now to Amba Law—I see a common thread: education, resilience, and the unwavering support of family.
If there’s one lesson I’ve learned, it’s this:
Opportunities come to those who are willing to work for them, embrace change, and step outside their comfort zones.
I never imagined that one day I would be working with my brothers in immigration law, but life has a way of leading us to where we are meant to be. For anyone—especially young students from small towns—who may think their dreams are too big or their path is unclear, I hope my story serves as a reminder that your background does not define your future.
With determination, education, and a strong support system,
you can go anywhere, achieve anything, and create a life that once seemed out of reach.
Final Thoughts
I am profoundly grateful to Allah for every step of my journey—the challenges, the victories, and the lessons in between. Now, as I embark on my professional career at Amba Law , I do so with a heart full of excitement, a mind eager to learn, and a deep sense of purpose.
To my parents who sacrificed everything,
To my brothers who paved the way,
To my friends who have been with me through it all—this journey is ours.
And to everyone chasing their dreams, never stop believing in what’s possible.
Kadir Konse Gire