At Strathmore University, Service to Society is not just a value; it is a way of life.

On Friday, 10th April, the People and Culture team in collaboration with the Community Service Center made their way to the Oasis of Endless Hope, tucked quietly in the heart of Kamakis, a place that truly lives up to its name. Just like an oasis in the middle of a desert, it stood as a pocket of warmth, resilience and hope.

“We arrived as visitors but by the end of the day we felt like family,” reflected a member of the People and Culture team. On arrival, we were met with warm smiles and a beautiful welcome that instantly set the tone for the day. Brief introductions followed, with each member of the People and Culture team sharing their name and profession. What began as a simple exchange quickly grew into something meaningful, with the students confidently introducing themselves and sharing their dream careers. In that moment, aspirations and possibilities came alive, marking the beginning of what would become a truly memorable day.

“Welcome, and feel at home,” they told us as we begun a tour of the home

We embraced those words wholeheartedly. With protective gear on and brushes in hand, the team got straight to work, bringing fresh colour onto the walls.

Meanwhile, in the kitchen, a different kind of creativity was unfolding. Some members were preparing lunch alongside the students from the Oasis of Endless Hope. The space quickly came alive. Laughter bounced from every corner, onions brought a few tears, and chapati flips came with the occasional burn. People who had just met were already moving in sync, working and laughing as if they had known each other for years.

“These are world-class chapatis. I have never tasted chapatis this good,” a student remarked. It was clear that what made them stand out was not just the taste, but everything that had gone into making them.

Later in the day, we sat down with the students for mentorship sessions. We broke into smaller groups, which made the conversations feel easier and more open. The discussions moved naturally between topics, from relationships to career choices to the pressure of trying to figure life out. At first, it was a bit quiet. Then slowly, hands went up, ideas followed and before long, the room opened up. What stood out most was how present everyone was. The conviction in the students’ voices and their curiosity became a point of learning for us as well.
“Thank you to the Strathmore University team for coming to share the day with us. We have learnt a lot and gained mentors,” a student reflected.

At that moment, the purpose of the day became clear. This was service to society in its truest form, people coming together, sharing, learning and growing side by side. It echoed the spirit of Ut Omnes Unum Sint – that all may be one: A reminder that beyond our different paths, experiences and perspectives, there is power in unity and in choosing to show up for one another.

Article written by Linda Rerimoi, 3rd Year BA in Communications.