Every year on May 20, the world celebrates the human resource profession, recognising the crucial role it plays in the work place, and efforts they play in caring for staff and providing a supportive work environment. At Strathmore University, the celebrations are stretched and extended beyond a single day to three days, culminating in the annual Wellness Fair.

The three days of impact were dedicated to learning, engagement, and wellness, with the aim of co-creating a transformative staff experience that enhances excellence in all that we do. The week also sought to connect staff members with the wellness resources and support available both within and beyond Strathmore. Through interactive activities, games, and educational sessions, staff experienced a refreshing blend of learning, engagement, and enjoyment.

The first two days were dedicated to staff interaction with members of the People and Culture department. Staff learned more about University P&C policies and benefits with the extra help of the Policy Chatbot. The atmosphere was lively and engaging, with colleagues participating enthusiastically in Kahoot, quizzes and policy-related games that tested their knowledge while sparking healthy competition among departments.

Day two shifted the excitement outdoors with the Treasure Hunt challenge. Nine teams battled it out across campus in a fast-paced race that required brainwork, creativity, and problem-solving skills. The activity not only racked the brains of participants but also brought out camaraderie among colleagues from different departments.

Alongside the games and team-building activities, staff also benefited from support services provided during the week. Representatives from KRA, NSSF, SHA, and financial wellness partners such as Mansa X were available to assist staff with tax filing, compliance questions, and financial literacy information. This practical support ensured that staff members could conveniently access these services within the workplace.

At the Wellness Fair, a cheerful Nala, always present at this event, was energised to welcome both students and staff to the graduation square lined up with tents with different organisations. Stratizens walked through a free wellness check courtesy of the University Medical clinic – from blood pressure, to blood sugar to a summary of body consitution aka body fat, muscles, water, etc. 

At the B-Fit tent, attendees had the opportunity to relax through the compression boots designed to physically push lactic acid out of your legs, dramatically increasing blood flow. Right next to it, was a demonstration of an ice bath. Those brave enough to dip their feet in polar cold water did so…one could see the grimace on people’s faces as they battled with their mind in order to stay put in the bath for one minute, 30 seconds. Some gave up within 30 seconds as the cold felt like a saw boring through one’s bones. A full cold plunge is designed to shock your system into muscle repair by constricting blood vessels to flush out toxins, instantly shutting down inflammation. 

At the end of the tour of the tents, were apples waiting for participants. Beyond the prizes and activities, P&C Week and the Wellness Fair served as a reminder that a thriving workplace is built on connection, lifelong learning & and personalised attention. Thank you to all who showed up, participated, gave feedback and interacted with us. See you, same time, same place, next year! 

Article by: Wambui Gachari