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Jared Ombaso Gwaro is originally from Kiogoro in Kisii County.
Jared Ombaso Gwaro, originally from Kiogoro in Kisii County, is a professional working in the US.
He speaks to the Nation about his experience winning the American diversity visa (DV) lottery, commonly known as the Green Card.
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Why did you decide to apply for a Green Card?
The decision to apply for the DV Lottery came in 2011 when I was in high school. Witnessing my three sisters having to drop out of school due to our family's financial constraints, I knew that finding a way to improve our circumstances was crucial. My family relied on income from selling local brews, which was an unstable and insufficient financial foundation.
How did you discover the DV Lottery? And why did you choose the US?
I first learnt about it from a Green Card agent who visited my high school to offer assistance with applications. Intrigued by the chance to start anew in the US, I saw the opportunity as a beacon of hope for my family. America's reputation as the land of opportunity where hard work and dedication can lead to success further fueled my desire.
In 2011, my efforts paid off when I was selected for the DV Lottery. To cover the costs associated with visa processing and agent fees, my family made the difficult decision to sell a portion of our ancestral land.
How did you navigate the process?
The application process is relatively straightforward, but it requires diligence and attention to detail. Applicants must submit their information online during the designated registration period, which typically spans a few weeks each year, specifically in October.
It's crucial to follow instructions carefully and avoid submitting duplicate entries as doing so can result in disqualification.
My family's financial constraints posed a significant challenge though. To cover the costs associated with the process — medical, visa processing, agent fees, passport applications and local transportation from point A to B — we made the difficult decision to sell a portion of our ancestral land. The months-long wait between submitting the application in October and receiving results around April added to the anxiety.
Jared Ombaso Gwaro.
Winning the Green Card was a surreal experience. I was well aware of the low odds of being selected from millions of applicants. The triumph served as a testament to the power of perseverance and hope.
How did you prepare for the interview?
I gathered essential documents together, including proof of education, work experience and financial support. Despite my nerves, I focused on conveying my sincere intention and motivation for pursuing a new life in the US. Practising potential interview questions that my agent gave me for preparation, which was drawn from his previous clients, helped. Dressing professionally helped me build confidence and present my case effectively.
How do you think social media affects Green Card applications?
Maintaining a mindful presence on social media during the visa application process is critical. Posts that may raise red flags include those that promote or condone illegal activities, express extremist views or otherwise portray the applicant in a negative light.
Do you have a comment on delays in getting appointments?
Delays in securing visa appointments can be frustrating, but patience and persistence are key. Staying in touch with the relevant authorities and being prepared to act swiftly once an appointment is scheduled can help streamline the process.
For those who are not selected in the DV Lottery, it's important to not lose hope. If your dream of moving to the US remains strong, tenacity and determination can yield results.
I arrived here in October 2012, marking the beginning of a thrilling new chapter in my life. Since then, I have continued to prioritise personal growth and education, attending Anoka Community College before completing my higher education at Metropolitan State University.
For those contemplating the DV Lottery, I encourage you to pursue your dreams and explore the possibilities that this unique programme offers. My journey has taught me that even in the face of adversity, hope and perseverance can lead to transformative change.
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