Her eyesight may be limited to just 10%, but her vision for the future is an astounding 100%. This is how we can describe Shenély Tromp (21). Born with glaucoma, a condition that legally categorizes her as visually impaired, Shenély is proving to herself, her family, friends, and the entire community that with maximum effort and determination, anything is possible. Today, as she graduates and works in the culinary sector, Shenély's inspiring story challenges our perception of what truly matters: believing in oneself.
"Ever since I can remember, I've lived my life as normally as possible. I know that many people with limitations are confined to their homes and restricted from living a normal life. In my case, my parents empowered me and strived to give me a normal life despite being born with glaucoma," Shenély explains. This condition causes fluid to accumulate in her eyes, resulting in pressure and damage to her nerves, affecting her vision. From a very young age, she underwent surgery for this condition.
"Doctors told my parents at the time that my eyesight would regress, but the surgery would slow down the process, and the chance of me becoming completely blind would be reduced, though not guaranteed." Every day, Shenély must apply medication to her eyes to control the pressure and keep her eyes moisturized. Since she was a child, she has been a client of FAVI, an organization that provides support for visually impaired individuals. Shenély became aware of her eye condition from an early age.
Her childhood was much like any other child's - playing and learning new things every day. One of her vivid memories from her early school years was being called 'fish eyes' by other children. "My eyes were bigger and rounder back then. I remember feeling hurt when they teased me, so sometimes I would pretend to be sick to avoid going to school." As she grew older, these taunts lessened, as she became more capable of defending herself.
Shenély was unsure of her career direction after completing her secondary education (MAVO). She chose the economic sector initially but transferred to culinary arts six months later, following her passion. "I had the support of my parents and a friend at school, who later became my partner. I gave it a try, and I knew it was meant for me. On my first day, I accidentally cut my finger while chopping celery, but I kept going."
Throughout her culinary education, Shenély's determination and passion shone brightly. She excelled in her studies, becoming proficient in all aspects of kitchen operations. Whether it was cutting, cooking, or any other task at hand, Shenély tackled them all with finesse, proving that dedication knows no boundaries.
"Nowadays, I can chop vegetables with my 'eyes closed'," Shenély laughs.
In 2023, Shenély graduated from EPI with a degree in Culinary Arts. "I set a goal to finish my education, and I achieved it. My vision is at 10% capacity, but that didn't stop me from pursuing my goals. I now work in the same restaurant where I did my practical training while studying.
I handle breakfast, salads, lunch - everything. I'm also getting ready to move in with my partner this year. I'm incredibly proud of myself and grateful that I could achieve everything I set out to do. Just remember, during school, some people doubted me.
There were times I felt that others tried to break my spirit, thinking I wouldn't succeed, but that only made me stronger. I don't see myself as someone with limitations. I'm an independent person in many ways. The only thing I can't do is drive a car because I can't get a driver's license, but that doesn't hinder me from living my life," Shenély says.
"Keep pushing, even when it feels tough. Don't give up; all accomplishments will be worth it in the end, and they will be yours."
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