Founder’s Week 2023
Theme: Friendship in the Digital Age
We live in a rapidly changing global landscape, and yet, human connections and empathy remain paramount to the human person. Modern social networking platforms and channels have dominated the communications space, and are playing a significant role in the lives of many people today. While these social media platforms provide opportunities for people to connect and interact, the nature of these connections differ from traditional friendships. Social media often prioritises quantity over quality, and users seek accumulating large numbers of online connections that do not always translate into deep and meaningful connections and relationships.
Additionally, the curated and filtered nature of social media can create a false sense of intimacy, potentially hindering the development of genuine friendships based on authenticity and vulnerability. Our interactions with our friends, family and colleagues lack depth and meaning. These superficial interactions can leave us longing for more authentic connections that create meaning in our lives. As social creatures, we yearn for the emotional nourishment that comes from truly understanding and being understood by others.
While the technological advancements we witness today have great benefits, they have also made it easy to fall into the transactional trap. For instance, we might have a large following of friends on our social media channels but lack meaningful relations that provide the support and authentic and real validation needed by human beings. As a result, these shallow relationships may result in disconnection and loneliness.
Furthermore, there is increased pressure to achieve and to be efficient in all facets of life. This mind-set can lead to a sense of isolation and loneliness, as we prioritise tasks over human connection. However, it’s important to remember that by prioritising the values of authenticity and goodness, individuals can navigate the world of social networking with intentionality. This means consciously selecting meaningful connections, engaging in genuine interactions, and using the platform as a tool to enhance, rather than replace, real-life friendships. Ultimately, by exercising discernment and mindful usage, social networking can evolve into a powerful ally in fostering and sustaining true friendships which can lead to a more balanced and satisfying life.
Our founder, St. Josemaria Escriva emphasised that the key to true friendship is putting others first, giving them our time and full attention. By prioritising the needs and concerns of others, we can create a space for genuine and meaningful conversations to flourish. This requires us to set aside our own distractions and truly engage with the thoughts and emotions of the person we are communicating with.
This year’s Founder’s Week theme, Friendship in the Digital Age, aims to explore ways in which we can foster meaningful relationships and prioritise the well-being of individuals amidst a society driven by transactions. By delving into this topic, we hope to inspire actions that promote genuine care and compassion for one another in order to create a more sustainable and harmonious world.
2023 Founder’s Week Students’ and Staff Instagram Competition
Calling all the Bestie Besties.
… the real besties. Your day ones, your ride or dies. The through tough times and for good times, friends.
We want to know what your ideal friendship looks like in this digital era. Whether it’s a photo sent each day to keep the streak running, or the ‘this made me think of you’ meme shared on WhatsApp. The hour long video call to catch up and the in person meet ups that remind you how sweet life is when you have a friend to share it with.
If it means something to you, then this is for you.
We’re calling all students and staff to participate in this year’s Founder’s Week competition. And, we’re taking it digital! Here’s what you need to do:
1. Grab your phone (and a friend or two) and go to your Instagram.
2. Share a photo on your profile that depicts what an ideal friendship looks like to you in this digital age.
3. Along with the photo, add a caption of your favourite St. Josemaria quote on friendship. This will take a little research, but google is your friend.
4. Tag the official Strathmore University IG account @strathmore.university, and we’ll be able to see your entry. Don’t forget to use the official Founders Week hashtags: #StrathFoundersWeek, #FriendshipChallenge, #FriendshipInDigitalAge
5. Get creative, get innovative because there are prizes to be won!
We look forward to seeing your entry. The competition officially opens on 19/09/2023 and closes on 04/10/2023.
Strathmore University Founder’s Week Students’ Musical Talent Show 2023: Unleash Your Inner Star! 
Are you ready to take center stage and let your musical talents shine? The Strathmore University Founder’s Week Musical Talent Show is here! Mark your calendars for September 28th and 29th, 2023, because you won’t want to miss this incredible opportunity to showcase your musical prowess.
Why Should You Participate?
Showcase Your Talent: Whether you sing, play an instrument, or have a unique musical act, this is your chance to shine in the spotlight and share your talent with your fellow Strathmore students.
Win Amazing Prizes: Compete for exciting prizes and the title of “Strathmore’s Musical Maestro.” The top performers will be rewarded for their exceptional skills and creativity.
Connect with Fellow Musicians: Meet like-minded musicians, form new friendships, and collaborate with fellow students who share your passion for music.
How to Participate?
Registration: Sign up for the talent show by filling in the registration form on this page (top right of this page). Hurry, as slots are limited, and registration closes on 26th September, 2023 at 5:00 pm.
Auditions: Once registered, prepare your act and audition on 28th September, 2023 from 2:00 pm at the Main Auditorium. The shortlisted candidates will proceed to the final Auditions on 29th September, 2023. Show us what you’ve got, and we’ll select the best talents to do a curtain raiser performance on the main stage during the Founder’s Week Concert on 6th October, 2023.
Rehearse: Practice, practice, practice! Rehearse your act to perfection.
Get Ready to Shine: On September 28th and 29th, step onto the stage and give the performance of a lifetime.
Join the Musical Celebration!
Let’s make the Strathmore University Founder’s Week Musical Talent Show 2023 an unforgettable musical celebration! We encourage all students to participate, whether you’re a seasoned performer or it’s your first time on stage. Your unique talent deserves to be heard, appreciated and celebrated.
Don’t let this opportunity pass you by! Show the world your musical brilliance, and let your star rise at Strathmore University. We can’t wait to witness your extraordinary talent!
For more information, updates, and registration, contact communications@strathmore.edu
#StrathFounder’s MusicalTalentShow2023 Let’s make history together!
