The University family has a new member who’s been living a hidden life on campus for two years. Following the grand unveiling as our mascot, our spotted, four-legged companion is finally able to emerge from under the covers.
Our mascot spared some time for us after munching on a keema samosa and a juicy meatball to open up on the choice of AKU as a new home and habitat.
Where have you been all this time?
I’ve been prowling around your campuses for the last two years. You may have noticed the paw prints or a sudden bulge in your ‘Something Big Is Coming’ banners. That’s where I’d be when I wasn’t in a bush or a tree.
Why did you decide to come to AKU?
I had a lovely life in sunny Nairobi National Park but I’m not like most leopards. My heritage is diverse with my ancestors coming from the mountains of Pakistan, the grasslands of East Africa and even London Zoo!
They say a leopard never changes its spots but that’s not me as I’m always on the look-out for something new. When I heard AKU was looking for a mascot, I was so excited that every part of me: my tail, my ears and even my whiskers stood on end!
It was a chance to visit six countries and see what student life is really like! I’ve never been to Uganda or London and the chance to sample some local antelope and fish and chips was another plus! Another thing: AKU is so green and open that I never miss home.
Tell us something about yourself? Something fun.
I come out green in pictures which means that people at our London campus think I’m Irish. The truth is I’m not Irish, I’m Spottish! Besides that you can certainly trust me, I’m no cheat-ah. Plus, I’m honest so you’ll never catch me li-on.
On a more serious note, like all leopards, I’m fast and always up for a race. What few people realise is that my speed means I quickly get over obstacles and I always strive to move ahead regardless of the odds. Also, I love swimming, running, and all kinds of wildlife.
You’re finally out in the open. How does that feel?
I feel like a celebrity! I’m on caps, shirts, keychains and some people are sticking me on their car bumpers too! It’s great to be the centre of attention after being under wraps for so long. Now I’m looking forward to getting my own name.
Now that you’re famous, what should we call you?
Well, some people call me a trademark, most people a mascot. When I’m around the Office of the Dean of Students, they call me a symbol of the University spirit.
Mostly though people just want to pet me rather than talk to me. I’d like a name that is as vibrant and fun as your students. Just don’t call me Simba or Mufasa, please!
Who brought you here?
You can thank the Office of the Dean of Students (ODOS) for thinking about me and convincing me to come here. The Office of Communications and Design Office have put up with me and even put me up on every campus and I hear that our President is also a fan.
When will we see you next?
All the sports teams will have me on their back, I’m sure my spirit will push them to even greater heights. I’ll be at all student events and, because I’m one of the most adaptable species, you’ll see me involved in everything relating to the student experience.
If you want to catch a hold of me, just get in touch with ODOS. They usually know where I am.
Learn more about the AKU mascot here. Click here to relive some of the best moments from the launch day.
