We have moved our website and blog to a new location. We will no longer be updating this blog.
You can now find us at http://www.uwezakenya.org.
Our new blog is at http://www.uwezakenya.org/blog.
Friday, December 21, 2012
Monday, December 17, 2012
My Story: Dorcas Kirwai
My Story" gives beneficiaries of Uweza programs the opportunity to tell their own story about their experience with Uweza. Today's story is written by Dorcas Kirwai, who just finished Class 6 at St. Anne's Primary School, which is a boarding school. Dorcas ranks at the top of her class during exams and is targeting a national high school to fulfill her dreams of being a lawyer and a journalist. During breaks from school, she is a member of the Uweza Journalism Club and frequently writes stories about other Uweza projects for this blog.
I joined the Uweza Journalism Club in November 201. Since I joined, I have experienced different and good things. The most exciting time is when I wrote stories after every visit. Our teacher, Thomas, has taught us how to take different kinds of photos. During the August school holidays, we as a journalism club, has the opportunity to visit two media houses, which gave us an insight of how they are run. The stations were Kenya Broadcasting Corporation, a state owned media house, and Citizen Televsion, a privately owned media house.
Mostly, when I go back to boarding school, I usually share with the other members of our school what we learned during the holidays. I am very proud of myself, my journalism teacher, and the Uweza Foundation for their thoughts to empower young people with rightful skills as we look ahead to the future.
My name is Dorcas Kirwai. I am thirteen years old, learning in Saint Anne's Primary School and going to class seven next year. I live with a mother who came to my rescue when my mother died while I was still young. I, Kirwai Dorcas, would like to inherit the title "journalist," follwing the footsteps of my role model Julie Gichuru (Kenyan journalist working for Citizen TV). I would also like to work with the children's department as a lawyer. As Ben Carson illustrates to us, to 'THINK BIG,' I believe 'YES I CAN.'
I joined the Uweza Journalism Club in November 201. Since I joined, I have experienced different and good things. The most exciting time is when I wrote stories after every visit. Our teacher, Thomas, has taught us how to take different kinds of photos. During the August school holidays, we as a journalism club, has the opportunity to visit two media houses, which gave us an insight of how they are run. The stations were Kenya Broadcasting Corporation, a state owned media house, and Citizen Televsion, a privately owned media house.
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| Dorcas, left, with fellow Journalism Club member Aisha |
The trips gave us great priviledge to meet some of the news anchors, who shared their experiences and what it takes to be a journalist. This gave me good motivation, knowing that I am on the right track with my career path.
Mostly, when I go back to boarding school, I usually share with the other members of our school what we learned during the holidays. I am very proud of myself, my journalism teacher, and the Uweza Foundation for their thoughts to empower young people with rightful skills as we look ahead to the future.
Friday, December 14, 2012
Be Inspired Before You Expire
Photos by Rebecca Musanga
As routine now, we had our newspaper review session, which gives all participants an avenue to read through the day’s dailies, after which everyone shares one news story they read. We also share news happenings from the past week so as each one of us could get up to speed with current news affairs, both locally to nationally, and even international news.
The day gave each one of us an opportunity to preview one of the toughest interviews we have had never ever thought about. The interview had Uganda President Yoweri Museveni and Nation Media News Manager Linus Kaikai.
The video was to give us more insights of different interview techniques to use, should any one of us get into such a situation. Then it would be easier to use learned skills to take charge and overcome
The interview was not that easy for Linus Kakai, the interviewee seemed to have taken charge and kept on challenging the interviewer with questions rather than answers. This kept us thinking if any of us were in that hot spot, how would we have handled interview?
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| Felix Asoha and Kamadi Amata of Pamoja FM |
We all had the opportunity of getting informed at least from people already working from a media house what it takes to prepare beforehand for an interview be it with celebrities, locals and even dignitaries. From the video piece we all watched, I think we are better off and would be looking forward to put into practice a few of new learnt ideas on interviewing skills.
Our day ended with a simple but a challenging game and the nutritious cup of porridge.
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Wonders Never End in Museums
Story and photos by Rebecca Musanga and Dorcas Kirwa.
As the old saying goes,’ Old is gold’ and indeed we have now verified this proverb because we also believe that seeing is believing. So on a cool Saturday morning, on the 8th of December 2012, all roads led to Nairobi National Museum. We went under the supervision and guidance of our art instructor, Mr. Joseph Wanderi ("Wanderer"), who was well armed with two well-trained journalists known as Dorcas Kirwai and Rebecca Musanga (the authors of this blog).
It was a chance for the art program kids to take a day off from their normal routine with the paint brushes and explore what is offered at the Nairobi National Museum. On arrival, a scary gigantic dinosaur welcomed us as we waited to be cleared. We first visited the museum art exhibition where we were totally inspired by people’s professional artwork. I was amazed when I saw one fine art painting costing 350, 000 Kenyan Shillings ($4,120 USD), meaning that if I was to paint or draw three of them, then I could be a millionaire in a few weeks time.
“When drawing or painting a landscape, never start with the people or objects but always start with the sky to give your picture a balance. You can also use boundaries of a picture that contains objects of different localities,” advised Mr. Wanderer.
We were able to see different species of all types of birds, including the owl, which most people associate with bad omen. For the first time, I saw an ostrich’s egg. We also saw an exhibition on cutleries, read Kenya’s history, learned about the Mau Mau generation, saw colonial garments, and learned about older means of transport, including the railway line in which we saw one built at the museum, and learned about media culture, sports and lastly fossils.
Next was a walk to the Snake Park, where it even got scarier. We viewed live snakes caged in different glass transparent walls and they were as well crawling towards our direction. I guess they were excited to see us. I got very interested when I saw these two types of snakes; one was the Milk Snake that eats insects, eggs and frogs. It’s harmless and lays 10 eggs per clutch. The second one was known as Boom slang, a big fanged venomous tree snake that has deadly slow acting venom that causes a general bleeding and the snake is non aggressive. We also saw some moving turtles, crocodiles and an alligator.
The trip ended with some adventure and funny games as some dancers entertained us. The music carried us too and we joined them in dancing to their tune of the orutu, flute and the drums. Sadly we had to leave all the fun behind and go back home but we remained with great memories stored in our minds. All that has a beginning must have an ending. We entered the bus and left for Uweza Foundation Center where we ended the day with lunch.
Rebecca Musanga and Dorcas Kirwai are members of the Uweza Journalism Club.
Thursday, December 6, 2012
Speak It Out: First Edition
by Thomas Bwire
The center was filled with youthful faces, all waiting in anticipation for the day’s afternoon session that was going to be the first of its kind in our programs. This came timely as majority of the kids in different programs were now on holiday and home from their respective schools.
It’s five minutes past 3pm as scheduled on the program and small murmurs in low tones could be heard outside the sitting bay where benches were neatly arranged and filled up by the participants. Being one of the moderators of the session, with Sponsorship Coordinator Mathew Muema, we took charge of the program by introductory remark and making every one present feel at ease since it was a day specifically to speak out their minds on one of the key topical issues in life, "Choosing a Career."
The number of the adolescent in attendance was 58 for the first session of “Speak It Out.” Speak It Out is a new project that brings in guest speakers to engage and motivate youth ages 14 and up about issues that are important to them.
Today's topic touched on best choices for university admission, how to choose your future career and what it takes to succeed in the soccer field. Our first speaker Charle gave an inspiration talk on what it takes to be a good academic scholar and on choosing the right course when one wants to join campus.
Charles also encouraged the participation of all participants wanting to know how one can join campus to pursue their dream courses. Different aspects were presented by Charles whom also shared a little bit of his experience which ended to be very motivational.
The second speaker was someone who is viewed as a soccer guru and seen by many as a hero. Godfrey Otieno, known by many here as Solo, shared his experiences of what it takes to excel in the soccer industry. The majority of those present followed keenly and wanted to get a better understanding of skills needed to succeed in the soccer industry. The talk revolved around his experience and how he started playing soccer at a young age.
Solo explained that he would always play with his friends and whenever he noticed her mother passing by in the field, he would enact all the tactful moves so as to get noticed and also get support. His passion has seen him travel to many African countries as a player and he has also played for the national team, Harambee Stars.
Finally, the speakers were able to answer some of the questions from all the participants. Each of the participants filled out an evaluation form to provide their feedback for future sessions, which will take place every month. Participants appreciated the new initiative and requested to learn more about topics such as drug and alcohol addition, family breakup, relationships, peer pressure, and drugs. The session came to a close with snacks for everyone involved.
The center was filled with youthful faces, all waiting in anticipation for the day’s afternoon session that was going to be the first of its kind in our programs. This came timely as majority of the kids in different programs were now on holiday and home from their respective schools.
It’s five minutes past 3pm as scheduled on the program and small murmurs in low tones could be heard outside the sitting bay where benches were neatly arranged and filled up by the participants. Being one of the moderators of the session, with Sponsorship Coordinator Mathew Muema, we took charge of the program by introductory remark and making every one present feel at ease since it was a day specifically to speak out their minds on one of the key topical issues in life, "Choosing a Career."
The number of the adolescent in attendance was 58 for the first session of “Speak It Out.” Speak It Out is a new project that brings in guest speakers to engage and motivate youth ages 14 and up about issues that are important to them.
Today's topic touched on best choices for university admission, how to choose your future career and what it takes to succeed in the soccer field. Our first speaker Charle gave an inspiration talk on what it takes to be a good academic scholar and on choosing the right course when one wants to join campus.
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| Charles addressing the group |
The second speaker was someone who is viewed as a soccer guru and seen by many as a hero. Godfrey Otieno, known by many here as Solo, shared his experiences of what it takes to excel in the soccer industry. The majority of those present followed keenly and wanted to get a better understanding of skills needed to succeed in the soccer industry. The talk revolved around his experience and how he started playing soccer at a young age.
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| Solo discusses how to develop a career out of talents |
Finally, the speakers were able to answer some of the questions from all the participants. Each of the participants filled out an evaluation form to provide their feedback for future sessions, which will take place every month. Participants appreciated the new initiative and requested to learn more about topics such as drug and alcohol addition, family breakup, relationships, peer pressure, and drugs. The session came to a close with snacks for everyone involved.
Thursday, November 29, 2012
Uweza Kibra League Awards
by Sharon Akinyi
On Sunday 25th November, we went to the field as part of our Journalism Club activities. We went to watch the Uweza Kibra League awards ceremony, which was held at Toi Primary School. Many children attended the function in order to cheer for their team and accept their awards for the 2012 season. The league is held annually and includes teams from throughout Kibera.
I first interviewed a coach known as Abel, who coaches Marren FC. He told me that the team deals with players 8 years old to 15 years old. The club has approximately 50 players. Abel told me that they had played thirty games as a part of the Uweza Kibra League and finished the season with 80 points.
Joash Ngaira, the league coordinator and Uweza coach for Under-12, was hoping for his team to win. Before they played their match, I asked him what he hoped for. He answered, "as a coach, I only expect the best and that's winning."
Uweza Under-8 played a match with Brothers Under-8 and won the match 1-0. Henry Waweru, a young and ambitious player, scored the goal for Uweza. Their coach Said was happy because they did not draw. He said that Henry Waweru was one of his best players on the Under-8 team. "He has determination even though he is small. He knows where he wants to reach and to him, not even the sky is the limit.," he told me. The Uweza Under-8 team usually trains on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. They are almost 25 in number.
The opponents of Uweza were not sad. I interviewed the Brothers FC coach, Edu, who thought the game was cool but "the minutes were very few." I asked him who his best player was he and he told me they were two, named Diblo and Imoli. In the next match, coach Abel's team Marren FC came head to head with coach Joash's team Uweza Under-12. Even though they played and fought tooth and nail for a victory, the match ended in a 0-0 draw.
After the match, we went to the awards ceremony. Coach Joash encouraged all of the players to keep putting more effort into everything they do and in improving their talents in football. The guest of honor, known as "Solo," who is a former international soccer player, told the players to set goals and play well in order to view themselves like their role models.
The winning teams for Under-8 and overall categories received certificates, medals and a trophy. Truly, all that starts well ends well. The league for the year was over and was closed by Managing Director Jen Sapitro. She thanked each and every one for coming and participating.
Sharon Akinyi is 14 years old and a member of the Uweza Journalism Club.
On Sunday 25th November, we went to the field as part of our Journalism Club activities. We went to watch the Uweza Kibra League awards ceremony, which was held at Toi Primary School. Many children attended the function in order to cheer for their team and accept their awards for the 2012 season. The league is held annually and includes teams from throughout Kibera.
I first interviewed a coach known as Abel, who coaches Marren FC. He told me that the team deals with players 8 years old to 15 years old. The club has approximately 50 players. Abel told me that they had played thirty games as a part of the Uweza Kibra League and finished the season with 80 points.
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| Journalism Club members interviewing League Coordinator Joash Ngaira |
Uweza Under-8 played a match with Brothers Under-8 and won the match 1-0. Henry Waweru, a young and ambitious player, scored the goal for Uweza. Their coach Said was happy because they did not draw. He said that Henry Waweru was one of his best players on the Under-8 team. "He has determination even though he is small. He knows where he wants to reach and to him, not even the sky is the limit.," he told me. The Uweza Under-8 team usually trains on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. They are almost 25 in number.
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| Uweza Under-8 vs. Brothers Under-8 |
After the match, we went to the awards ceremony. Coach Joash encouraged all of the players to keep putting more effort into everything they do and in improving their talents in football. The guest of honor, known as "Solo," who is a former international soccer player, told the players to set goals and play well in order to view themselves like their role models.
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| Uweza Team Manager Charles Kaindi addresses the players and coaches |
"Solo" also told them that they had to be disciplined. "You could be doing well in everything but without discipline, you won't go anywhere." Many prizes and awards were given to different teams. The first prize for Best Defender went to Quinter Anyango of the Uweza Queens (girls team). Top Scorer of the Uweza Kibra League was Rashid Abdul of Marren FC, with 21 goals. The prize for the Most Disciplined went to Juma Suleiman of Marren FC.
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| Slum Soka team captain accepts certificate on behalf of his team |
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| Marren FC players with their first place trophy |
Sharon Akinyi is 14 years old and a member of the Uweza Journalism Club.
Monday, November 26, 2012
Life Skils All Ladies Should Know
by Rebecca Musanga
Life skills is next to common sense but as we know sometimes this skill is not as common among many individuals. In life, we undergo numerous and different transitions that enable us to move to the next step of success. On a bright Saturday morning, the 24th of November, Uweza Foundation organized a ladies life skills forum and the young ladies who came were from the different programs that it provides.
The main aim of the forum was to educate young ladies about the mandatory skills that they need to apply in their daily lives. Under the guidance our beloved, respected teacher Lydia, we all sat down, regardless of our age, to listen and learn more about life. Teacher Lydia dwelled mostly on the proper way of hygiene.
The major points she tackled were as follows:
We all had a great time and did not want the session to end. Everyone had a great time to enjoy the snacks that were provided as we promised to share the knowledge with the other young ladies who were absent. Truly, life skills should be a mandatory subject in all learning institutions to remind people on the good morals and ethics of life.
Rebecca Musanga is a member of the Uweza Journalism Club.
Life skills is next to common sense but as we know sometimes this skill is not as common among many individuals. In life, we undergo numerous and different transitions that enable us to move to the next step of success. On a bright Saturday morning, the 24th of November, Uweza Foundation organized a ladies life skills forum and the young ladies who came were from the different programs that it provides.
The main aim of the forum was to educate young ladies about the mandatory skills that they need to apply in their daily lives. Under the guidance our beloved, respected teacher Lydia, we all sat down, regardless of our age, to listen and learn more about life. Teacher Lydia dwelled mostly on the proper way of hygiene.
The major points she tackled were as follows:
- The proper way of bathing where we were advised to always have a shower at least twice in a day.
- Brushing of our teeth at least twice in a day.
- Wearing clean clothes daily.
- Always to use a white tissue when visiting the toilet and wash our hands regularly.
- Wearing well fitting pants that should always be dry and clean to avoid getting infections.
- During the monthly period to use recommended pads and disposing them correctly.
- Get a better education and after that a career which will enable us to live a pleasing life.
- To abstain from sex until marriage since one can contract various diseases, some of which, like HIV and AIDS, don’t have any cure.
- Respect to our elders especially our parents and to the laws provided in the constitution.
- Shaving of pubic and armpit hair to avoid bad smell and other complications
- Above all to keep our dignity through earning a good education, happiness good social and moral values and reverence for God.
We all had a great time and did not want the session to end. Everyone had a great time to enjoy the snacks that were provided as we promised to share the knowledge with the other young ladies who were absent. Truly, life skills should be a mandatory subject in all learning institutions to remind people on the good morals and ethics of life.
Rebecca Musanga is a member of the Uweza Journalism Club.
Saturday, November 17, 2012
We are on the move
by Nicholas Gisemba
Sunday the 11th of November was a day to remember as one of our new programs, the Uweza Cultural Troupe, was lucky enough to be invited to perform at a wedding outside Kibera. The group has been meeting since August to sharpen their dancing skills and recently had their first performance at Uweza Soccer Academy's Prize Giving day. The group meets every Sunday and brings together youth from throughout Kibera to learn dances from different Kenyan cultures.
The wedding was held along Thika road at St. Bernard Catholic Parish, where the bride and the groom were having the best day of their lives. The service went well with the parish priest giving word of encouragement to the newlyweds. Time came for the Uweza dancing group, wearing their new dancing costumes and shoes, to perform and everyone was impressed by their dancing styles.
For sure their performance was not a disappointment as wedding guests were treated to lively moves and were very impressed. According to their trainer Mr. Antony Juma, his task has been to train the youngsters in dancing skills, since it’s also like a sport to relax one’s mind and also enjoy oneself. The Cultural Troupe was able to participate in wedding festivities and enjoyed a meal of rice, chapati, and meat as appreciation for their performing. The group returned back to Kibera at night, after a day of enjoyment.
Watch a video clip of the performance below and contact us at info@uweza.org or 0706823283 to book the Uweza Cultural Troupe to perform at your event!
Nicholas Gisemba is a member of the Uweza Journalism Club.
Monday, November 12, 2012
My Story: Uweza Sponsorship House
My Story" gives beneficiaries of Uweza programs the opportunity to tell their own story about their experience with Uweza. Today's story comes from five Kibera adolescents who have moved into a house together that is paid for by Uweza. In Kibera, most adolescent boys are considered adults and are expected to find a place to sleep outside of their family homes. The authors of today's story are high school students who had particularly difficult living situations, which prompted Uweza to intervene.
by Ali Juma, Charles Omondi, Erick Ondimu, Michael Kubasu, and Steven Okello
Opportunities are very rare to find. This is because, nowhere in this planet earth, will you find someone who sacrifices to guarantee all your requirements such as paying your school fees, providing a shelter for you, and lastly ensuring that you get food. We are boldly appreciating for all that Uweza Foundation has provided us with. The opportunity that you have given to us is a wonderful and visionary idea that has enabled us to focus ahead. We thank you for everything.
Before we entered this house, most of us went through a lot of challenges in life such as lack of school fees, food problems, housing problems, and lastly difficulty learning. Learning was the most serious problem that most of us had. First, we lacked resources such as textbooks. The place to study was a major problem. Time management was a serious issue. Most of us could also be influenced by friends that were negative influences.
The house is located opposite K.A.G. near Ceno Grounds in Kibera. The house is cemented from inside to outside. The floor and the walls are cemented wonderfully. The walls are painted in a white color which makes it look deliberately good. The iron-sheet is well built in that leaking problems during raining are minimal.
Uweza Foundation has provided us with facilities such as beds that have made us sleep comfortable without worries. We have, enough food that has made us to be so energetic whereby from our past appearance we looked thin but now we have changed a lot. When you look at us, we look much more healthy than those past days.
We also have a place to study whereby we are able to read well without any disturbance and also we can manage our time appropriately. We have been provided with books that have enabled us to improve our academic performance. And lastly, you have provided a house that enables us to live better.
The house has helped us live peacefully and in harmony and has brought unity between all of us. We are all coming from different backgrounds but it is the house that Uweza has provided for us that has brought us together without looking closely at who we are and where we came from.
With our ending remarks, we would like to appreciate Uweza Foundation for what they have done to us. All of us have set targets/goals that are going to bear much fruit. We promise that we are going to work hard and pass our exams well because we have all that requires a student to pass. We will pass with flying colors. We believe that one day, we will come to surprise many with our achievements and progress.
Lastly, we will not forget the blessings and love of God that has enabled Uweza to do all of this because of us. Please continue having the same spirit of assisting people that are in need and for sure God will not forsake you but He will reward you more. Thank you very much and may the Almighty God bless you (Uweza) all the time.
by Ali Juma, Charles Omondi, Erick Ondimu, Michael Kubasu, and Steven Okello
Opportunities are very rare to find. This is because, nowhere in this planet earth, will you find someone who sacrifices to guarantee all your requirements such as paying your school fees, providing a shelter for you, and lastly ensuring that you get food. We are boldly appreciating for all that Uweza Foundation has provided us with. The opportunity that you have given to us is a wonderful and visionary idea that has enabled us to focus ahead. We thank you for everything.
Before we entered this house, most of us went through a lot of challenges in life such as lack of school fees, food problems, housing problems, and lastly difficulty learning. Learning was the most serious problem that most of us had. First, we lacked resources such as textbooks. The place to study was a major problem. Time management was a serious issue. Most of us could also be influenced by friends that were negative influences.
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| Erick Ondimu and Charles Omondi |
Uweza Foundation has provided us with facilities such as beds that have made us sleep comfortable without worries. We have, enough food that has made us to be so energetic whereby from our past appearance we looked thin but now we have changed a lot. When you look at us, we look much more healthy than those past days.
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| Michael Kubasu |
The house has helped us live peacefully and in harmony and has brought unity between all of us. We are all coming from different backgrounds but it is the house that Uweza has provided for us that has brought us together without looking closely at who we are and where we came from.
With our ending remarks, we would like to appreciate Uweza Foundation for what they have done to us. All of us have set targets/goals that are going to bear much fruit. We promise that we are going to work hard and pass our exams well because we have all that requires a student to pass. We will pass with flying colors. We believe that one day, we will come to surprise many with our achievements and progress.
Lastly, we will not forget the blessings and love of God that has enabled Uweza to do all of this because of us. Please continue having the same spirit of assisting people that are in need and for sure God will not forsake you but He will reward you more. Thank you very much and may the Almighty God bless you (Uweza) all the time.
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| From left: Steven Okello, Erick Ondimu, Ali Juma, Charles Omondi, and Michael Kubasu |
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Today's Entrepreneurs
by Rebecca Musanga and Thomas Bwire
Have you ever wondered why some businesses thrive and end up being big companies? And have you ever asked yourself why some big companies end up to their downfall? Well the answer to a better managed business entity is through proper planning, undertaking a market research to understand its need.
November 3rd 2012 was a day set aside by Barclays bank staff that came all the way to Kibera to undertake a community service among the children of Uweza Foundation. Their mission was to teach and mentor youths aged between ages 12-23 on life skills, financial skills, and entrepreneurship skills. Despite the chilly and rainy muddy day, all the participants both from the Barclay’s team and Uweza had the energy to go all the way. Sessions were organized for different age groups in some of the classes at Toi Primary School.
The older youth were taken through the fundamentals of growing a small business with as little capital as 1,000 Kenyan Shillings and the major points that are essential for business growth. One of the major factors one should consider in starting a business is the demand of product. Second is the package, available market and quality of the product. These factors play a big role because many people consciously or unconsciously buy things not because they need them but because they saw them and were attracted to them.
To become a good entrepreneur, one needs to be bold and good in negotiating skills, social, persuasive, determined and goal oriented. At the end, the greatest investment one can ever make is in the people themselves and not in the machines. With the help of some of the facilitators like Ramesh Kavil, Charity Kimathi and Francis Mwango, the group of older youths were now able to understand how things work in the real business world.
The Chief Operating Officer also added the need to embrace technology advancement in this area since most youths own mobile handsets that can hasten use of mobile banking, call centers, and internet use. To put all the theories taught into practice, a section of the youths were divided into groups of three and each given a Ksh.1000 to purchase some clothes at the nearby Toi Market with an aim of selling to make profit. This had to be done within a time frame of 1 hour.
Upon their return to the event, some shops were opened and business took center stage as Barclays staff members bought some of the clothes displayed and gifted them to younger kids who had emerged winners in a dancing competition that was held.
“I feel much different now, and I am thinking of possible ways I can start a small business one day,” were Ali Juma's sentiments. While Dennis Odhiambo, age 19, also appreciates the few learned entrepreneurship skills that he had never given a thought to before. Thank you to Barclays for their support in making this great day possible!
Have you ever wondered why some businesses thrive and end up being big companies? And have you ever asked yourself why some big companies end up to their downfall? Well the answer to a better managed business entity is through proper planning, undertaking a market research to understand its need.
November 3rd 2012 was a day set aside by Barclays bank staff that came all the way to Kibera to undertake a community service among the children of Uweza Foundation. Their mission was to teach and mentor youths aged between ages 12-23 on life skills, financial skills, and entrepreneurship skills. Despite the chilly and rainy muddy day, all the participants both from the Barclay’s team and Uweza had the energy to go all the way. Sessions were organized for different age groups in some of the classes at Toi Primary School.
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| Uweza youth ages 12-14 received mentorship on life skills from Barclays staff members |
To become a good entrepreneur, one needs to be bold and good in negotiating skills, social, persuasive, determined and goal oriented. At the end, the greatest investment one can ever make is in the people themselves and not in the machines. With the help of some of the facilitators like Ramesh Kavil, Charity Kimathi and Francis Mwango, the group of older youths were now able to understand how things work in the real business world.
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| Ramesh Kayil of Barclays leads a lesson to Uweza youth ages 19-23 |
An in-depth interview with the Barclays Africa, Chief Operating Officer (BA, COO) Mr. Eric Modave noted that Africa is still the best place for market investment opportunities that can easily target the youth. “Youth comprise of a bigger population though we see many disparities among them, and that’s why Barclays is here to support youth ideas and possible ways of creating new jobs for them” noted Eric.
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| Eric Modave teaching youth ages 15-18 about Africa's potential for entrepreneurship growth |
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| Organizing their goods purchased at the market |
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| Dancing competition winners with their new clothing donations |
Monday, November 5, 2012
Always aim higher
by Mathew Muema
Last Saturday’s weather proved many of us wrong, as the chilly temperature were not friendly to what we are used here. In most cases our weather is warmer, but today was rains pouring at intervals. Anyway, that didn’t deter me from accomplishing my mission for the day as planned trip to Meru was still on. The journey takes around 5hours for a distance of more than 200 kilometers. This is one of the counties in Kenya that boosts of growing plenty of coffee and tea due to the high attitude and famously known to export khat (miraa).
My destination was St Lucy High School, a boarding school for the visually impaired, to pay a school visit of one our sponsored student Cyrus Renji. The journey went well without any hitches and upon arrival at the school, Cyrus was there to welcome me.
My visit ended up to sharing experiences of how Cyrus has been managing while at the school four years down the line after he became blind. He still remembers the experience and that has not pulled him down but has been an inspiration for him to work hard in his studies.
Cyrus notes, with a smile, that was it not for Uweza, then his life would have taken another twist. “I still value important people who came into my life at that time like Mark (Cyrus' sponsor), Jen (Uweza Managing Director) and you Mathew for being like a big brother and helping me to get everything I need. This support has changed my perspective and I feel okay till today, ” Cyrus tells me.
He still has some challenges that he has had to cope, which he opened up to me about. " I used to enjoy playing and watching soccer but right now I can’t do any of that. I am also an athlete but if I wish to run right now I need a guide to run. But swimming I can still do it the same way. The other challenge I am experiencing at the moment is that I am still learning how to use Braille. My speed is low but with time hopefully I will manage, “notes Cyrus.
Mathew Muema is Uweza's wonderful Sponsorship Coordinator who regularly travels to all ends of Kenya to make sure that our sponsored students are well taken care of.
Last Saturday’s weather proved many of us wrong, as the chilly temperature were not friendly to what we are used here. In most cases our weather is warmer, but today was rains pouring at intervals. Anyway, that didn’t deter me from accomplishing my mission for the day as planned trip to Meru was still on. The journey takes around 5hours for a distance of more than 200 kilometers. This is one of the counties in Kenya that boosts of growing plenty of coffee and tea due to the high attitude and famously known to export khat (miraa).
My destination was St Lucy High School, a boarding school for the visually impaired, to pay a school visit of one our sponsored student Cyrus Renji. The journey went well without any hitches and upon arrival at the school, Cyrus was there to welcome me.
My visit ended up to sharing experiences of how Cyrus has been managing while at the school four years down the line after he became blind. He still remembers the experience and that has not pulled him down but has been an inspiration for him to work hard in his studies.
Cyrus notes, with a smile, that was it not for Uweza, then his life would have taken another twist. “I still value important people who came into my life at that time like Mark (Cyrus' sponsor), Jen (Uweza Managing Director) and you Mathew for being like a big brother and helping me to get everything I need. This support has changed my perspective and I feel okay till today, ” Cyrus tells me.
He still has some challenges that he has had to cope, which he opened up to me about. " I used to enjoy playing and watching soccer but right now I can’t do any of that. I am also an athlete but if I wish to run right now I need a guide to run. But swimming I can still do it the same way. The other challenge I am experiencing at the moment is that I am still learning how to use Braille. My speed is low but with time hopefully I will manage, “notes Cyrus.
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| From left: Uweza Sponsorship Coordinator Mathew Muema, Cyrus Renji, and Cyrus' class teacher Mr. Kinoti |
Cyrus class teacher really appreciates his hard work
considering that he was not born with the disability and that it just caught up with him
as a growing student. He can do well and he has commendable discipline while at
school.
As the day came to an end, I must say I had a good day in the company of Cyrus, who is a story teller. One can never get bored in his company. His still thankful and thoughtful of the person who is assisting to paying his school fees and will continue to devote all is energy to doing well in his studies.
As the day came to an end, I must say I had a good day in the company of Cyrus, who is a story teller. One can never get bored in his company. His still thankful and thoughtful of the person who is assisting to paying his school fees and will continue to devote all is energy to doing well in his studies.
Mathew Muema is Uweza's wonderful Sponsorship Coordinator who regularly travels to all ends of Kenya to make sure that our sponsored students are well taken care of.
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Empowering today's generation
by Thomas Bwire
“Teacher! teacher! I know the answer,” is what I get to hear as I arrive in one of the classroom hosting the pupils undertaking their evening remedial classes. The session is on and one of the teachers, Isaiah Apondi is carrying our some revision on one of the taught subjects science.
Today’s session is about the environment, things that surround us where we all live. “Yes I need someone to tell me what the definition of the word environment is?" asks teacher Isaiah to his participating pupils in his class. At this point I see almost the whole class raise their hands hoping they will be picked to answer the asked question.
Teacher Isaiah is one of the teachers working for Uweza and he teaches primary children different school taught subjects. Session are carried out during the week after the normal school program, where pupils come from different respective schools and engage one to one with the teachers. The goal is to help pupils to have an understanding of the subjects taught while at school and also as a supplement to their academic work.
A discussion with teacher Isaiah reveals that he tries to help all the pupils come to the same level in terms of what they learn while in school, since they all come from different respective local schools around. His passion is to see pupils do well in school and that more emphasis is invested in their end of the term exams.
“Here we give an opportunity for each child to approach the teacher with any need and we supplement by assisting so that by the end of the day, they can do well in their studies. We act as a bridge between their schools just by supplementing what might have been left out,” notes teacher Isaiah.
His parting shot is that being a teacher is a calling. He would like to encourage anyone willing to get into the teaching industry that a teacher’s fulfillment is to share knowledge to the generations and see them prosper into young responsible citizens once they ae through with their academic studies. And with that, I was done with teacher Isaiah and stole a few moments to get good photos of him interacting with his class.
“Teacher! teacher! I know the answer,” is what I get to hear as I arrive in one of the classroom hosting the pupils undertaking their evening remedial classes. The session is on and one of the teachers, Isaiah Apondi is carrying our some revision on one of the taught subjects science.
Today’s session is about the environment, things that surround us where we all live. “Yes I need someone to tell me what the definition of the word environment is?" asks teacher Isaiah to his participating pupils in his class. At this point I see almost the whole class raise their hands hoping they will be picked to answer the asked question.
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| A section of the pupils participating in the lesson |
 |
| Checking over students books |
 |
| Pupils keenly following the lesson |
His parting shot is that being a teacher is a calling. He would like to encourage anyone willing to get into the teaching industry that a teacher’s fulfillment is to share knowledge to the generations and see them prosper into young responsible citizens once they ae through with their academic studies. And with that, I was done with teacher Isaiah and stole a few moments to get good photos of him interacting with his class.
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
My hands speak for my mind
by Rebecca Musanga
In the hot afternoon of a beautiful Saturday, the Uweza Foundation Art Club was busy speaking more using their hands than their mouths. Their creative colours blend their intelligence with the help of the art work tools which are the paint brushes, different paintings of different colours, and a canvas among others.
This form of painting brings an inspiration to their daily lives since they are young and vibrant and full of great ideas. They receive the help of their professional artist Mr. Wanderer, who guides them in the best way to lay down their ideas. Their form of art speaks a lot ranging from world life, landscape sceneries, vegetation and human culture. These are just a few of the selected paintings they do.
The art class normally meets every Wednesday and Saturdays for their training which normally lasts for two hours. I spoke to some of them and the said that they really enjoy painting since to them it looks simpler and comes out as an expression of their thoughts, ideas and feelings surrounding them.
A talent is a skill, which if well focused on and nurtured, can do wonders. I was totally amazed by their beautiful work, making me feel like I needed some tuition in drawing. Their creativity was awesome and the output was just the exact visual one can see with the normal eyes. I was so impressed by the way they blended their colours to create a phenomenal output. Their drawing is worth a thousand words and even more. Their talent is original. Bravo Uweza Art club.
You can support the students and the sustainability of the art program by purchasing their paintings every Wednesday on Uweza's Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/uweza) and on the Uweza website: http://www.uweza.org/shop.html.
Rebecca Musanga is a member of the Uweza Journalism Club.
In the hot afternoon of a beautiful Saturday, the Uweza Foundation Art Club was busy speaking more using their hands than their mouths. Their creative colours blend their intelligence with the help of the art work tools which are the paint brushes, different paintings of different colours, and a canvas among others.
This form of painting brings an inspiration to their daily lives since they are young and vibrant and full of great ideas. They receive the help of their professional artist Mr. Wanderer, who guides them in the best way to lay down their ideas. Their form of art speaks a lot ranging from world life, landscape sceneries, vegetation and human culture. These are just a few of the selected paintings they do.
The art class normally meets every Wednesday and Saturdays for their training which normally lasts for two hours. I spoke to some of them and the said that they really enjoy painting since to them it looks simpler and comes out as an expression of their thoughts, ideas and feelings surrounding them.
A talent is a skill, which if well focused on and nurtured, can do wonders. I was totally amazed by their beautiful work, making me feel like I needed some tuition in drawing. Their creativity was awesome and the output was just the exact visual one can see with the normal eyes. I was so impressed by the way they blended their colours to create a phenomenal output. Their drawing is worth a thousand words and even more. Their talent is original. Bravo Uweza Art club.
You can support the students and the sustainability of the art program by purchasing their paintings every Wednesday on Uweza's Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/uweza) and on the Uweza website: http://www.uweza.org/shop.html.
Rebecca Musanga is a member of the Uweza Journalism Club.
Thursday, October 25, 2012
My Story: Yvonne Chanzu Jandi.
By Yvonne Chanzu Jandi.
"My Story" gives beneficiaries of Uweza programs the opportunity to tell their own story about their experience with Uweza. Today's story is written by Yvonne Chanzu Jandi, a 13 year-old student participating in Uweza's after-school tutoring program since May. She plans to become an engineer and also wants us to know that she loves her best friend, Catherine Achieng.
My name is Vyonne Chanzu Jandi. I live in Kibera Kambi Muru near Darajani village. I live with my mother who is a single mother. At the age of 10, I lost my father and my mother has been the one taking good care of us. I am 13 years old and in class seven at Kibera primary school.
I used to look for a place where I can settle my mind well after school and learn many things that I have never understood in the class. When I heard my friends talking about the good things that Uweza Foundation has done for them, I tried to look for a way that I can talk to my friends because I was so desperate to join the Uweza Foundation.
I decided to talk to them and they directed me how to get a registration form. I took the form to my mother and we filled it together. She was so happy and encouraged me to join the tuition program at Uweza Foundation.
Uweza has led me to become a very nice person. It has led me to a life that I never imagined. The tuition program has helped me improve my marks from 250 to 300 marks. I have always prayed that I can pass my compositions so that I can help the needy in my country and I know that I will pass my examinations come the end of the year in the name of the great God. I am sure Uweza will make my dreams come true.
"My Story" gives beneficiaries of Uweza programs the opportunity to tell their own story about their experience with Uweza. Today's story is written by Yvonne Chanzu Jandi, a 13 year-old student participating in Uweza's after-school tutoring program since May. She plans to become an engineer and also wants us to know that she loves her best friend, Catherine Achieng.
My name is Vyonne Chanzu Jandi. I live in Kibera Kambi Muru near Darajani village. I live with my mother who is a single mother. At the age of 10, I lost my father and my mother has been the one taking good care of us. I am 13 years old and in class seven at Kibera primary school.
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| Yvonne Chanzu Jandi |
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| Getting help on her homework from Uweza teacher Isaiah |
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| Yvonne, left, with her best friend Catherine |
Monday, October 22, 2012
The School Visit
by Mathew Muema
20th October in the Kenyan calendar is a holiday known as Mashujaa Day, meant to celebrate our heroes. At P.C.E.A Musa Gitau primary school, this day was celebrated in style as it was their school visiting day and business was not as usual. As I entered through the wide opened gate there was at least someone to say “karibu” meaning welcome. Students were eagerly a waiting for their parents at a certain corner where I entered straight looking for my two sponsored students Mercy Nelima and Bramuel Makoha.
I could also see a crowd of other parents who came to pay a visit to their children as a way of motivating them while in school. Before I knew it, I saw Bramuel running towards me with excitement over his face. Soon after we embraced, he took my camera bag and he showed me in to look for Mercy who he referred as sister. Immediately we spotted her at a corner reading through her books at the school dining hall and as soon as she saw us, she came to say hi.
Today’s weather was a little bit hot as it was approaching 1pm and we had to look for a better shelter from the scorching sun. Having found a place to sit, Mercy went out to wash her hands and soon came back with an unexpected visitor. Makaki is her name, whom I was informed was Mercy's class mate and best friend at school. We shared a meal together of chips, chicken, cake, crisps, and other snacks.
Mercy is a very bright student who has always been top overall in class six. She is expecting at the end of this term to attain 450 and above over 500. She finds school cool with no challenges.
I posed a question to Mercy whether she found any subject challenging and after a little pause, she answered with authority. “All subjects are equal so if one is easy then all of them are and I don’t find any of the subjects that we are taught tough,” were Mercy’s sentiments.
Bramuel, on the other hand, is social and outgoing; he says that his favorite subject is English. “Being in school is the best decision any young person can make in their life. I am happy to be in school and want to work towards getting good grades at least above 400 at the end of this school term, ” noted Bramuel.
Bramuel’s teacher appreciates them and says they are disciplined and hardworking students and assured me that they usually support the students in case they feel challenged. For me it was an exciting day spending time with the kids.
I was encouraged to hear Mercy say, after receiving her motivation prize from Uweza for good grades, that she will buy a present for her mentor who is a student in form 2 and who stays with her at Tunza Children's Centre, a children's home for orphaned children. Both of them are writing inspirational new stories of what they called a sad story of their past life and are an inspiration to all kids out there.
Mathew Muema is Uweza's hard-working and dedicated Sponsorship Coordinator.
20th October in the Kenyan calendar is a holiday known as Mashujaa Day, meant to celebrate our heroes. At P.C.E.A Musa Gitau primary school, this day was celebrated in style as it was their school visiting day and business was not as usual. As I entered through the wide opened gate there was at least someone to say “karibu” meaning welcome. Students were eagerly a waiting for their parents at a certain corner where I entered straight looking for my two sponsored students Mercy Nelima and Bramuel Makoha.
 |
| Uweza sponsored students Bramwel Makokha and Mercy Nelima |
Today’s weather was a little bit hot as it was approaching 1pm and we had to look for a better shelter from the scorching sun. Having found a place to sit, Mercy went out to wash her hands and soon came back with an unexpected visitor. Makaki is her name, whom I was informed was Mercy's class mate and best friend at school. We shared a meal together of chips, chicken, cake, crisps, and other snacks.
Mercy is a very bright student who has always been top overall in class six. She is expecting at the end of this term to attain 450 and above over 500. She finds school cool with no challenges.
I posed a question to Mercy whether she found any subject challenging and after a little pause, she answered with authority. “All subjects are equal so if one is easy then all of them are and I don’t find any of the subjects that we are taught tough,” were Mercy’s sentiments.
Bramuel, on the other hand, is social and outgoing; he says that his favorite subject is English. “Being in school is the best decision any young person can make in their life. I am happy to be in school and want to work towards getting good grades at least above 400 at the end of this school term, ” noted Bramuel.
 |
| With Bramwel's teacher |
I was encouraged to hear Mercy say, after receiving her motivation prize from Uweza for good grades, that she will buy a present for her mentor who is a student in form 2 and who stays with her at Tunza Children's Centre, a children's home for orphaned children. Both of them are writing inspirational new stories of what they called a sad story of their past life and are an inspiration to all kids out there.
Mathew Muema is Uweza's hard-working and dedicated Sponsorship Coordinator.
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