Esther Passaris opens up about being dyslexic and struggling with languages
Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has opened up about living with dyslexia and how it has affected her ability to learn and use languages.
Passaris explained that while she has tried to grasp different languages over the years, dyslexia has made it a difficult task. She noted that she does not speak Kikuyu and had once hoped marriage might help her bridge that gap.
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“I don’t speak Kikuyu. I thought a Kikuyu husband would enable the language; a girl is allowed to dream,” Passaris said in a statement on X on Sunday, September 21, 2025.
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She went on to describe how dyslexia has shaped her relationship with languages, admitting that even English and Kiswahili posed challenges during her education.
“Being dyslexic, language isn’t my forte. I barely make it through the King’s English; I failed Kiswahili; I picked up a few Italian phrases whilst in Italy and a few Greek swear words here and there,” she revealed.
Struggles with languages
Dyslexia is a learning difficulty that affects the ability to read, write, and spell.
For Passaris, this has meant constant challenges with mastering formal communication in multiple languages.
While she has encountered difficulties with English, Kiswahili, and Kikuyu, she noted that she picked up some Italian expressions during her time in Italy and a handful of Greek words.
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Her disclosure highlights the little-known struggles leaders and public figures face while balancing personal challenges with public responsibilities.
Passaris said she has chosen to embrace her strengths rather than dwell on the difficulties.
Choosing authenticity
Despite the hurdles, Passaris said that her strength lies not in spoken languages but in authenticity and compassion.
“My forte is the language of authenticity and humanity. I preach love and love alone. This is a language anyone and everyone can relate to,” she said.
She says she is focusing on love as a universal form of communication. Passaris positioned herself as an advocate for connection beyond words.
Her remarks reflect a message about inclusivity and understanding, particularly for individuals facing learning challenges.
Passaris’ revelation adds a personal dimension to her public profile, showing how she continues to navigate dyslexia while prioritising values she believes unite people.
