When I signed up for the Community Outreach Programme (COP) mentorship camp in Samburu, I was excited for one simple reason: I had never been there before. What I did not know was that this journey would leave me with much more than memories of a new place. It would challenge my perceptions, deepen my understanding of service, and remind me of the power of mentorship to transform lives.

From 2nd to 5th May 2026, the Community Outreach Programme under Strathmore University’s Community Service Department travelled to Maralal, Samburu, for a mentorship initiative targeting high school students. As volunteers gathered at Strathmore University’s Phase One campus before dawn, there was a sense of anticipation in the air. We were heading into the unknown, united by a shared purpose: to inspire, guide, and empower young people.

The journey itself became the beginning of that connection. Along the way, conversations flowed easily, friendships formed naturally, and a spirited game of bingo introduced us to people we had never met before. By the time we reached Samburu that evening, we were no longer a group of strangers; we were a team.

Samburu welcomed us with a surprise. Contrary to many assumptions, the town was peaceful, vibrant, and remarkably beautiful. The chilly evening air, the warm hospitality, and the rich culture immediately challenged some of the stereotypes I had unconsciously carried. It was my first lesson of the trip: places and people are often far more than the stories we tell about them.

The following day offered an opportunity to immerse ourselves in the region’s history and culture. A visit to Kenyatta House, where Kenya’s first President, Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, was detained during the colonial period, provided a powerful reminder of the country’s journey. Learning that he authored Facing Mount Kenya while under house arrest added another layer of appreciation for the resilience and vision that shaped our nation.

Yet, it was our interaction with the students that truly defined the experience.

Before the mentorship sessions officially began, we spent time at Irene Girls School, engaging students through sports, conversations, and entertainment. Beneath the laughter and excitement were deeper stories. Many students shared personal challenges, dreams, fears, and questions about their future. Some conversations were difficult and emotional, revealing burdens that young people often carry silently.

In those moments, our role as mentors became clear. We were not there simply to deliver presentations. We were there to listen, encourage, and remind these students that their circumstances do not determine their potential.

The mentorship sessions on the fourth day brought this purpose to life. Volunteers were divided between Irene Girls School and Goshen Boys School, where students eagerly welcomed us into their classrooms. I was assigned to a Grade 10 class, and what stood out most was their curiosity. The students asked thoughtful questions, shared strong opinions, and engaged actively in discussions about education, career choices, and life beyond the classroom.

What impressed me even more was seeing students recall lessons shared by mentors during previous visits. It was tangible evidence that mentorship leaves a lasting impact. The conversations we were having were not isolated moments; they were part of a continuing journey of growth and empowerment.

As mentors, we shared knowledge and experiences, but we also learned from the students. Their resilience, ambition, and willingness to dream despite challenges were inspiring. Many simply needed someone to believe in them, someone to broaden their perspective and help them see possibilities beyond their immediate environment.

This is what makes the Community Outreach Programme so meaningful. Whether one participates as a student, alumnus, staff member, or instructor, the opportunity to positively influence even one life carries immeasurable value. It is a practical expression of Strathmore University’s commitment to making Service to Society a way of life.
By the time we began our journey back to Nairobi, I realized I was returning home changed. I had gained a deeper appreciation for Samburu’s rich culture, history, and people. More importantly, I had witnessed firsthand how mentorship can ignite hope, build confidence, and open doors of possibility for young people.

The students may have been the intended beneficiaries of the programme, but they impacted us just as much. They reminded us that transformation happens through connection, that service begins with listening, and that every conversation has the potential to shape a future.

As I reflected on the trip, one thought stayed with me: true impact is not measured by how far we travel, but by the lives we touch along the way.

By Terry Christole, Volunteer, Community Outreach Programme (COP)